Handog-Pasasalamat

DEATH, DYING AND LIFE

2007-11-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

It seemed that previous month and this month has been pretty tough for VAI members and their families. They were really made busy praying for the eternal repose of the soul of a member or a member's relative who have gone ahead of them. A month ago, Dale and Boyet's sister Rachel has gone ahead of us. She was not short of courage in battling the big C.

Just this month we learned the sad news of the passing of Gino Gancia. He hails from Valenzuela, Bulacan, the seat of the Marulas SVS. But we have grown so accustomed to the idea and reality that dying is not just crying, but reliving of the fun life of the deposed. The account of Fr. Poloi can attest to that.

We went to see Gino (for the last time) last night. Entering their house was a dejavu: there Gino and I used to sneak for merienda after catechism classes at the nearby school during our Valenzuela days. We celebrated Mass for his eternal repose in the presence of his family and friends. Si Bilet ang naggitara, may balbas na ang mga kanta namin (he he he). Despite the short notice, a handful from our generation came, viz., Gerry Guillen, Chris Gallano, Ed Escarraga, Chito Sulit, Tony Santos, Bilet Joaquin, Bong Magkasi, Freddie Lim (Did I miss anyone?). Danny Aguillon did not make it due to some road problem; Eric Reyes had to attend to a patient at the last hour. After Mass, kwentuhan ng kwentuhan about the good old past; tawanan ng tawanan na parang hindi lamay ang pinuntahan! But I know Gino would like the same atmosphere --funny, easy and light. Requiescat in pace.

And just two nights ago, Fr. Rolly's mother Maria, 92 passed away also. And so we prayed more.

But of course, we were not short of celebration. Norman and Triccie just had their wedding anniversary. Noel just gone back from the hospital triumphantly shaking off a dreaded illness.

This is how life unfolds in reality. With humor and grit. We can only enjoy its fancy.

MON HERRERA,HIS PASSING, OUR PRAYERS

2007-05-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

On May 19, 2007, the VAI e-Community was awaken with the news of the passing of one of its members, MON HERRERA. Below are the reaction of the sad event.

(Excerpt from email)

***

Brothers,i just got this text message from the wife of mon herrera thisafternoon - he passed away this morning and his body now lies at thedivine mercy viewing chapel in muntinlupa.

fyi

Danny

***

May he rest in peace! Danny kindly extend to Mon's family our sincere condolences and prayers.

Vic Pacheco

***

danny, extend my condolences to the family. our community at Holy family church will pray for Mon's eternal repose

Johnny Z.

***

R.I.P. Amen. Danny, please tell Fr Silva to say Mass for Mon. He knows Ming, Mon's wife. Thank you. Vic, Johnny and I will be saying Mass for Mon's repose. Extend our sympathy to the family.

Poloi, cm

***

My condolences, too, and my prayers for Mon's family.

Manny Ginete cm

***

I will have Mon's intention in my mass this weekend.My condolences to his family.

Fr. Ed Jocson

***

Mon, I will pray for you intently when I go to Mass daily this coming week. I am sorry I could not see you when I went to Manila last February because you were out in San Pedro. But your sufferings are over now!!! I know you are now in the company of St. Vincent and the Good Shepherd has a special place for you there. Remember us now that you are in paradise.

Manny Aguja

***

my prayers and masses will be offered for mon's eternal repose and strength to his family he left behind.

Ed e.

***

my prayers, sympathies, and condolences to mon's family, friends, and batchmates. mon, rest in peace.

brothers, can somebody give us a little background about mon? his batch, classmates - just for our reference. thanks.

Padre Kiko

***

Padre Kiko,Mon - Ramon Herrera - and more popularly as Poklat is a batchmate of Fr. Poloi Pura and Fr. Vic Pacheco in Valenzuela cause of death - colon cancer

Danny A.

***

Danny Aguillon,

Kindly extend my condolonces to Mon's wife and his family.
He was a Senior when I was freshman at St. Vincent's Seminary, Valenzuela, Bulacan.
We used to play chess during our free times. He never won a single game.
I already included him in my prayers this weekend.

Thanks.

Martin Altonaga

PS Danny are u still memorizing ur pocket dictionary! lol!

***

Danny:Likewise, can you pls my condolonces to Mon'wife and family. We havehim in our prayers.

Gem

***

Our prayers for his eternal repose and for strength for his family.

Alex e.

***

Life is indeed a journey... Rest eternally, Mon. We're praying for you and your family at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament (Alabama). May God's perpetual light shine upon you. Amen.

Joebalt, Vangie & Patrick Evidente

***

Death is the only real truth that makes us realize that our existence in this world is not for life, but forever. Because through our death we can only achieve eternity, life-after-death! It’s when we come across the real world that God has promised for those who choose his path! It’s the only moment we experience GOD BEING, when He transforms us into His Being! Only Death can make that happens! Death is just a beginning of eternity!

Mon has chosen that path. That’s why let’s rejoice for he has achieved eternity with God! Brothers and sisters, family of Mon, rejoice for Mon is now with HIM who lives forever in our midst, in our life! Mon, like God, will be always with us. He exists. He doesn’t leave us. In fact and in reality, he is better off than all of us still living temporarily in this world. For now Mon is eternally happy with God! Mon is living, not resting, eternally! Amen.

Mon loves God so much that he deserves His reward – HAPPY LIFE WITHOUT END! Isn’t it wonderful? Indeed! That’s what we are looking forward in this world! So rejoice and let’s be happy with Mon! Let’s Congratulate Mon for he is now with the ONE TRUE GOD, EXPERIENCING LIFE EVERLASTING, WITH HIM IN HEAVEN, HAPPY FOREVER!

Mengz & the Estolano Clan

BCT Fr. Eddie, please offer a requiem mass for Mon Herrera, our brother in Vincentian Association Int’l – Congregation of the Mission (VAI-CM), who returns to our Creator to live with Him forever and ever! Thank you so much!

***

Mon, may God grant you eternal rest and may his perpetual light shine upon you. Amen. I will also pray for you.

Jimmy Serranilla

***

May God give you the eternal happiness and peace. We are thankful for those years of togetherness, the life we have shared in the spirit of St. Vincent, comnrades in Christ. We will be praying for you and your family.

Melvin Jacildo and Family.

***

Mon,

"May choir of angels welcome you and lead you to the bosom of Abraham; and where Lazarus is poor no longer may you find eternal rest." (from the rite of Christian funeral) Until we meet again brother.

Deacon Dale

***

Amen!!! Mon is now HOME with our FATHER.

The stories of Ming, his wife, led me to admire Mon’s strength of faith. As the pain gradually crept and spread and grew throughout his body, his faith just grew stronger and stronger. He never got cranky and instead he even got to crack jokes occasionally. He was always optimistic that things would turn out fine. Ming related that sometime in January, after his second or third long confinement, he insisted on getting married under Catholic rites – his first was a Christian wedding daw – and thereafter they were wed by a Catholic priest. Truly, it was a journey – a painful one but a cleansing one too as the pain brought him closer to HIM. In his last week, Ming said that Mon was already requesting them to pray that God already take him away – probably he was ready.

Congratulations my Brother Mon!! Indeed, we have not lost you but we have only gained an ally in Heaven!!

Gerry Guillen

(if your prayers and condolences are not included here, our apologies)

A Grateful Message from Mang Tony

2007-05-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Napakalaking pasasalamat ko kasama ng aking pamilya sa hindi nyo paglimot sakin... Nakakataba ng puso na sa matagal na panahon na hindi natin pagkikita ay naalala nyo parin ako hangang sa aking pagreretiro... Kayo ay hindi narin iba sakin, mga ANAK...

Dalangin ko na lalo pang gumanda ang buhay para sating lahat...

Muli MARAMING SALAMAT...

Mang Tony Tagaban

HULI MAN, NAIHAHABOL DIN

2007-05-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Last month, Dale Almenario had a chance to go home for a family visit. Along with his intention to see his former classmates and friends was to surprise one person who had a given his whole life to the seminary. He has done tremendous sacrifice but with little if not late recognition. This time some kindhearted and well endowed VAI shared a small amount in recognition for his service to them/us. Below is the story of Dale.

Last Monday, in the presence of Fr. Ollie Negrosa, CM and Fr. Mariano Silva, CM, I handed to Mang Tony a thank you card and some money in the amount of $610.00. He was very surprised when we summoned him to the refectory in San Marcelino. I told him the money came from some members of VAI and is given to him in appreciation of his services to us when we were in the seminary. I told him that his chauffering us has brought us to far and distant places. He was in the verge of tears and was so thankful for the token of appreciation. I apologize that we did not have any pictures of the moment.

I want to thank and recognize the following who expressed their profound gratitude to the services of Mang Tony by way of their contribution: Fr. Ed Jocson, Fr. Ed Escober, Gem Mella, Jobalt, Norman Razal, Dale Almenario, Los Angeles VAI members who pooled their money together, and a member who wants to remain anonymous.

Deacon Dale

IN MEMORIAM

2007-05-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

We condole with the families of Delfin Bondad and Felix Sareno, whose fathers passed away this month.

Delfin and Felix are batchmates and both are Philo. grad. Both of them are very much involved with the Daughters of Charity schools (Sta. Isabel and Sagrado)

Sharing Lives

2007-05-05T02:55:00.000-07:00

Hi, brothers!

12 years ago, I was inspired by the Holy Spirit to share my life with others by donating one of my kidneys. It was a decision I will never regret for the rest of my life. That was a decision very few dared to do. To see how the recipient lived a normal life for the past 12 years was something I could never imagine. Her smile, her very rosy cheeks and her eagerness to help those in need.

Now after 12 long years, the kidney has collapsed due to complications from diabetis among others. And again, she is looking for someone with a kind heart, willing to give his kidney. Talking from her experience with me, she would like, once again, to have as donor an ex-seminarian. Initially, the donor must have a type "O" blood and preferrably has no history of ailment or illness.

For those interested or for inquiries, please call me at +6328390011 loc 102 or text/call me through my mobile numbers +639209051559/ +639228408840.

Thank you very much, brothers and God bless us all!

LEO S. GELLOR

Batch '92 VHS/ADU

ACTIVE ACM: On the Occassion of Fr. General's Visit

2007-02-14T15:49:00.000-08:00

Just to let you warn that on the occasion of Fr. Gregory Gay’s visit to the Vincentian Family in the Philippines, you can access to his pod cast on the details of the said visit at http://famvin.org/frgreg/

This week, he will be in Iloilo visiting Calumpang and Asilo de San Vicente De Paul in Molo (Feb. 15). De Paul will be hosting his visit on Feb 16. There will be an open air mass at 8:00 am after which the field demonstration participated in by the different schools here in Western Visayas i.e. De Paul College, Sagrado, San Jose, Marillac in Miagao and Saint Anthony in Roxas. All the religious organizations like SSVP, Luisas and the COM members will be here in De Paul College Glen Jaboneta (ACM 88) will deliver the welcome address. After the Field Demonstration there will be a Vincentian Youth Encounter at the Gymnasium of De Paul College where Fr. Danny Failadona, CM will be singing.

By 4pm the Fr. General leaves Iloilo.

CHECK LIST FOR 2007 by Glenn Jaboneta

2007-01-25T06:52:00.000-08:00

PART III (part 2 of this article can be seen at http://thelastphilosophers.blogspot.com/ )

(Conversion of St. Paul)
On the virtue of MORTIFICATION. The Scripture reads, “Truly, I say to you, unless the grain of wheat falls to the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much fruit. Whoever loves his life destroys it, and whoever despises his life in this world keeps it for everlasting life. Whoever wants to serve me, let him follow me and wherever I am, there shall my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. Now my soul is in distress. Shall I say Father, save me from this hour? But, I have come to this hour to face all this, Father glorify your name!” (Jn. 12: 24-28)

The practice of mortification is not only for the religious. In whatever state of life we find ourselves immersed into the practice of this particular virtue remains significant. Let me offer some ways. Let us start with the story of dying.

Mobile phones nowadays, are part of life. The most sophisticated, very expensive and up-to-date mobile phones are in the hands of religious men and women and to us to me former seminarians. I could still remember the words of Fr. Jesus Martinez, C.M. in one of his Spiritual Direction sessions with the seminarians. In his perspective, material possessions could be considered basura. He was talking about cars then, branded body pieces and some items considered luxurious by the standards of seminary life. There were no mobile phones yet at that time. I do not know if Fr. Martinez would call it basura. But I feel the point is in serving Christ there is a call for sacrifice.

Towards the end of 2006, I received a call from Jessric. The center of our conversation was on the aspect of sacrifice. He is a father now and he is planning to go out of the country not for himself but for his family.

Rey F. he belongs to the batch of Christian B. and Nonoy M. to name a few. When I met him here in school he told me that his son who is too young to suffer needs a heart operation. I am updated about the things being done to his son. He went to Manila for the operation and the son was admitted at the Philippine Heart Center. November 14, 2006, I received a text message from Loiue Placido. I quote, “Claude Wayne passed away. He is now with God. Pls. pray for Rey F. and family.” I am certain like any other father if he could be the one to endure the pain not the son. Sana ako na lang.

I feel this is mortification strictly speaking. Rustom Padilla was given the question when he revealed that he is gay if he is sexually active. We can also look at mortification in this way. But I feel we need also to celebrate and wonderfully accept who we are in the context of authentic friendships. At the same time condemning the act of sexual abuses committed against people especially because that is not the way to celebrate sexuality.

The guide questions:

Am I willing to die to myself?
Am I willing at times to forget about my needs and sacrifice for others?
Do I at times do things for others in a begrudging manner?

Finally, the APOSTOLIC ZEAL. Matthew’s image of this zeal has something to do with salt. Matthew is saying, “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt has lost its taste, how can it be made salty again? It has become useless. It can only be thrown away and people will trample on it.” (Mt.5: 13)

The following questions could help us.

Am I enthusiastic in my apostolic work?
Do I inspire hope in others and for others?
Am I showing signs of burn out and indifference in my dealings with others?
Do I truly see the poor as my “Lords” and “Masters”, treating them like objectives, as stepping stones to my “own greater honor and glory?

This zeal is true in whatever calling we are in. As religious it is essential, we preach with passion, we listen to people from the heart and live vows no matter how challenging it is.

In marriage, it is like saying “may asim pa” when it comes to sleeping and waking up with the same person the rest of our lives. We need to put zeal in the covenant of love we forge with the beloved.

What is so blessed about being single? Just like me. It is the zeal one puts to it. Now that I am literally staying in De Paul College last novena masses popularly known as the Simbang Gabi in one of the masses I attended the celebrant said I am 47 years old and was ordained priest last year. Fr. Danny after his break in Manila told me a certain Elioraga a classmate of Fr. Roland Tuason is now back. It is the zeal one puts to live life as a religious or being single but with a heart full of smiles.

I wish to express my sincerest gratitude to Bogs, to Alex and all those who remain steadfast in their generosity. Thank you so much. God bless you a hundredfold.

Happy New Year to all and Happy Feast Day!

ROXAS CITY, RECONQUERED

2007-01-15T13:45:00.000-08:00

The day after docking at the “City of Dreams” (Iloilo), we, the new batch (some said the “anointed ones”), with ambivalent feelings of fear and excitement, set ourselves for St. Anthony College of Roxas City.

Thanks to Fr. Benny Enano, his pawis-steering BIDA and to the all-muscled Toto and Francis, we reached St. Anthony College whole and unscathed. Because we did not advice that we were coming, the room where we should be staying was still not prepared. Thanks to the decorative touch of Sr. Glo, in the span of 10 minutes, she was able to fix the place.

It was when we were lying on bed for our siesta that we fully realized that we have indeed have arrived in Roxas City and that we have a new and different life. If for the last few weeks, coming here was just a dream, now it is a reality. Everybody hoped though that there would be no “nightmares.”

On June 26, as part of PIS Director’s job, Fr. Johnny paid us a visit to find out not only our pressing concerns but also to lay down some rules concerning our stay. Since we are very much far from the rest of our batch mates, he emphasized greater responsibility and personal discipline.

According to him, in his watch there are some negotiable and non-negotiable principles that most of us must observe in order for the program to work on us. I guess, this time we are to be guided not anymore by the walls of the seminary but by the strength of our Vincentian character.

NOTE: This article is an excerpt from MONTANIETTOS, the journal of PIS seminarians assigned at St. Anthony College, Roxas City. I am posting this in honor of my batch mates and on the occasion of the closing of the PIS program this coming March 2007. There will be more to come.

BUCKEYES, GATORS AND AMERICAN CULTURE

2007-01-09T06:12:00.000-08:00

The predictions were simply wrong… and painful. All the time, Ohio State was expected to win the BCS Championship but they fell short and lose sloppily. Florida Gators, the underdog, proved to be more agile, and hungrier for the title.

I have never understood American Football. How could fans came in the stadium with painted faces, wearing their team’s color and enjoy such the game of running and power? I have never understood it until now. Until I saw Gators slowly slaughtering my Buckeyes. It was unbelievable and I could not take it. By the time the first half ended, it was a 34-14 in favor of Gators. It was then that I shut off the TV and never wanted to watch it again. But even on bed, I can’t help but think of their defeat.

I would normally get a Tuesday newspaper, but this time, I opted not to. But who can escape from it. Hence, I resolved to see what happened. Indeed, the Gators won and we lost, 41 – 14. Although the Ohio coach and Troy Smith put up a face, yet the fact is, Gators won, and there is no doubt about it. They are now the no. 1 in college football this year.

But like a good fan, I say, see you next year. And God willing, we could get the most coveted BCS Championship trophy.

Understanding American Football, is understanding the American psyche. Understanding football is understanding the culture of the community. If you can’t dig it, then you will never dig the American psyche. And for me, well, I am slowly digging it.

But in the end, I say, GO BUCKEYES GO!

CHECKLIST FOR 2007

2007-01-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

by Reynold Glenn S. Jaboneta, acm'88

PART ONE

We welcome 2007 will hearts full of hope and may the year give all of us meaningful journey and significant encounters and deep friendships.

Kris Aquino and James Yap are making the headlines nowadays for the birth of their child this 2007. This will be the lucky year for them according to the experts on stars, yin and yang and all. In the Philippines it is the news.

On the other hand is the debate on the custody of the American soldier Daniel Smith, the May 2007 elections. We can be carried away by all these and miss out the essentials. After all, Exupery is saying what is essential is invisible to the eye.

This is the essential this 2007. This is about the VINCENTIAN VIRTUES PERSONAL CHECKLIST by Rev. Fr. Gregory Gay, C.M. He is currently the Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission. This February he will come to visit De Paul College and all the other Vincentian houses.

The personal checklist will make sense in our journey patterned after St. Vincent de Paul, as we embark into another story about life.

We start with HUMILITY. The Scriptural text is taken from the gospel of St. Luke 18: 9-14. This is the parable about the Pharisee and the tax collector. “Two people went up to the Temple to pray; one was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and said: I thank you, God, that I am not like other people, grasping, crooked, adulterous, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give the tenth of all my income to the Temple.”

In the meantime the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast saying: “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”

Let us see the movements of these characters. Both of them WENT UP to the temple to PRAY. Maybe it is like the journey from the house of Mang Garas or Mang Tony up to VHS to celebrate the Eucharist on a Sunday. In life we all journey uphill or in whatever terrain and lived a way of life on how to approach God, encounter God.

The Pharisee STOOD BY HIMSELF and SAID…I THANK YOU…I AM NOT like other people…or even like this tax collector. I FAST…I GIVE…the tenth of all MY INCOME.

What about the tax collector? STANDING FAR OFF, NOT EVEN LIFT HIS EYES, BEAT his breast...BE MERCIFUL TO ME, A SINNER.

The Pharisee is full of himself. I thank you, I am not like. I fast. I give.. My income. It was a litany of “I”. On the other hand the tax collector standing far off beat his breast. Be merciful to me, a sinner. This is what humble people do.

We can ask these questions as suggested by Fr. Gay. All the guide questions are taken from the checklist.

1. Do I recognize my dignity as a son/daughter of God, having the humility to see the gifts God has given me and do I use those gifts for His glory or for my own vanity?

2. Am I able to recognize my own limits, my weaknesses, my shortcomings, my failings before others?

3. Am I able to forgive others and ask forgiveness for my offenses?

ARE YOU NOW READY FOR CHRISTMAS?

2006-12-25T07:04:00.000-08:00

This has been the question I would get for the past two weeks before today from my co- workers and friends. A much lighter though than, “What did you get for your wife” question. To which I would reply, “I guess so” and “Tsk, I’m still thinking about it and by the way thanks for reminding me,” respectively.

Depending on which side are you taking seriously, indeed, if you take the first question, it is quite tough. Are you now ready for Christmas? Honestly, it also depends on your perspective, and wallet.

Why wallet? Well, I am working in one of the biggest retailers in the US and I can see how pallets and pallets of goods are coming in every night “to celebrate Christmas”. An hour before I go home, I would scan the whole store and see how well “zoned” the shelves are “for Christmas.” Honestly, I have never been so commercially-hungry-immigrant than today.

The first question has never entered into my realm of seriousness until now. Am I now ready for Christmas? How could I ready myself? Well, we can’t escape the fact that celebrating Christmas today entails a lot of goods-scanning, comparing and credit card swiping. Estimatedly, $24 billions have been spent before Christmas day. In form and part, I am part of that. If you would ask me based on this criterion, I am not and will never be? Why, because there will be better goods to compare than what you have bought earlier. And there will be more to come.

Thanks to the counter-commercialism culture of the Church. Thanks too for letting her ask the same question, and putting the question in its right perspective. And right perspective would be “celebrating the true meaning of Christmas” that for sure you know what and how it means (no need to elaborate).

Now for the second question (that matters a lot before the family starts tearing off the Christmas gift wrappers), “what did you get for your wife?” Even up to the last minute, I didn’t get what she wanted. While we did scan the jewelry stores and letting her pick what she like, yet, up to the last minute, we didn’t get one. (Perhaps, the reason why she didn’t want to get one was, she knew that I am going to pay for it using credit card, and she knew that if I did that, she’ll indeed up paying it by herself.) Talk of “ginisa sa sariing mantika.” And talk of being clever and me blowing out my cover.

But I did manage to buy her one, not though from the top of her “all I want for Christmas” list. I got her a foot spa/massage machine. She can use that after the shopping spree syndrome wears off.

But honestly, I just realized that I can not be ready and will not be ready for Christmas. If will always be rather, THE CHRISTMAS WILL MAKE ME READY.

Of Puzzles and Closures

2006-11-28T02:15:00.000-08:00

From Padua to Dancel

by Efren D. Dancel

I've been wanting to give you, ACM and VAI brothers, a background of the change of my surname from Padua to Dancel. I've been known as Efren "Bogs" Padua eversince SVS-VHS days wayback 1985.. But now, people know me as Efren Dancel. What's with this twist? What's in a name?

Is it true that only women who get married change their surnames? Generally, yes, but there are isolated cases like mine. After I secured my birth certificate from the NSO as one of the graduation requirements, I eventually found out that my surname is DANCEL with the same birth-month/date/year, with the same father and mother's name.

What was my reaction? I was happy because my deceased father acknowledged me even if I am an illegitimate child.

Later I had known, when my mother was still alive, that Mr. Padua, my step dad, changed my birth certificate to easily comply with the school requirements. Do I have to file a case in court? No more, because NSO did not initiate any change in their file. Adamson required my mother to submit an affidavit that Efren Padua and Efren Dancel is one and the same person. I hope this will clarify things for the moment and put proper closures in my life's puzzles..

Call me Bogs Padua.. Call me Bogs Dancel.. either way, I will always be your brother carrying the same Vincentian blood...

Claude's Journey Begins...

2006-11-14T22:54:00.000-08:00

Isn't it coincidental that from October 15 to November 14 no entries were posted to this blog giving a space for Claude Wayne's cause.. hoping for a miracle or two..

The news of Claude's passing away made me sit and stare blankly on the computer screen....

Sometimes miracles don't happen the way we want it to happen or the way we see it coming.. Have all our efforts been put to naught? What's next?....

Claude passed away in the loving embrace of the Creator who alone can give a fuller life.

Miracles happen not the way we want it at times. Some miracles hurt and can hurt deeply.. After Claude's death we are left with something to ponder upon...

Claude, help us... Do pray for us..... for a A Miracle or Two...

An Appeal for Claude Wayne S. Fuentivilla

2006-10-15T04:43:00.000-07:00

To All ACM-VAI Brothers:

May the grace and peace be yours in full measure!

The anxiety and stress that we are now suffering is immeasurable. And it makes us sad to think the condition of our child struggling to survive. Our son Claude Wayne S. Fuentivilla has a complex congenital heart disease. The physicians predicted that he will live only up to six months the most, but through God’s mercy, until now he is still alive and two years and 4 months old already. Last April 2005, he was hospitalized for three weeks at Iloilo St. Paul’s Hospital due to pneumonia and meningitis. We thought it was the end of his borrowed life here on earth. But God is indeed a Merciful and Loving God!

Due to his critical condition our physician advised us for an immediate operation in Manila preferably at Philippine Heart Center and is requiring us to prepare a reasonable budget close to Four Hundred Thousand Pesos (P400,000) for the first operation. Since his case is not the usual and ordinary congenital problem he is required to undergo various heart surgeries.

In this regard, we are appealing to your generosity to help us extend the life of our son through your financial assistance. As parents it is beyond one’s understanding that we will do everything just to let our child live whatever ways and means it takes even if it will be of immense burden and will result to ridiculous comments on our part.

The schedule for his operation will be this November 2006 since the attending surgeon is now in the States. He will be back last week of October here in Manila.

Again, We are humbly begging from you whatever help you can extend to help us in this very depressing stage of our life. We know you can understand our feelings because you too are parents and guardians.

We do hope for your love and compassion.

With Our Sincerest Gratitude,
Reynaldo and Nora Fuentivilla

Mobile Nos.: +639189671227 / +639278816840
Bank Acct. No. 1075 0885 03
BPI-Iloilo Main Branch

or thru ACM Checking Acct. No.000-4000-18950
UnionBank-Timog Branch

Ang Kapilya

2006-10-13T05:10:00.001-07:00

ni Emiliano Dumalaog

Wala na pala ang kapilya ni San Vincente at ang gusaling kinatitirikan nito. Tanging mga tiles na lang ang natitirang bakas ng nakaraan... Ang nakaraan na naging isang munting bahagi lamang ako ngunit sa aking alaala ay puno ng karanasang espiritwal, intelektwal, pisikal at maging ang "comical".

Hindi ko malimutan ang mga eksena ng mga seminarista na ang ulo ay nauntog sa mga salaming pinto nito. Ilan beses nga ba sa kamalasan ay na-assign ako sa paglilinis ng kanyang mga salamin. Ang "wipe in, wipe out" routine na para bang hango sa pelikulang "Karate Kid" ay lubhang nagpahirap sa akin ngunit humugis naman sa aking katawan para maging ala-Ralph Maccio (meron po akong katibayan. Tingnan ninyo na lang po sa aming annual Batch '88).

Sa piling ng kapilyang ito, natutunan ko rin ang ganda at yaman ng ating pananampalataya. Ilang umaga ba kahit aantok-antok, ako ay nagtiyagang gumising upang makasama sa panalanging bumabati sa simula ng isang bagong araw? At sa gabi naman bago matulog, ang magdasal para magpasalamat sa biyayang natanggap ng nagdaang araw at sa Poong Maykapal ay ipagkatiwala ang aking sarili... sa Kanyang mabuting kalinga.

Ilang aral at pangaral nga ba ang narinig ko mula sa pulpito nito na nagsilbing gabay ko sa aking araw-araw na pamumuhay? Isa nang bakanteng lote ang dating kinatatayuan ng kapilya pero mananatili siyang haligi ng aking pagkatao.

Ang Puno

2006-10-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

ni Emiliano Dumalaog

Nasaan na nga ba ang mga puno ng aking kabataan? Ang matatamis na bunga ng mangga at ang duyang pahingahan na nakasabit sa kanyang mga sanga. Ang puno ng duhat na nakagawiang akyatin ng mga bata upang sa kanyang mga dahon ay makahuli ng mga gagamba. Ang mga naglalakihang mga puno ng molave, narra at yakal na tila bantayog ng mga taong nagdaan. Unti-unti na silang nagkawala... naging biktima ng walang tigil na pagputol sa ngalan ng pag-unlad. Ang balimbing, sa kasamaang palad sa pulitiko inihambing, ay bihira na lamang makitang bahagi ng mga hardin. Ang ipil-ipil, kung sa pakinabang ay walang kasing-galing, tinaga at ginawang uling.

Tuluyan nang nawala ang lahat ng puno ng aking kabataan, ngunit mananatili silang nakatanim sa aking ala-ala ng isang masayang nakaraan.

In Memory of Fr. Jerome Calcagno, CM

2006-10-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

Father Jerome Calcagno, CM, was a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, born on September 7, 1923. He died at Our Lady of Wisdom Health Care Center in New Orleans on August 22, 2005. He was 81 years old.

Postcards
by Emiliano Dumalaog

During my college days in Angono, I seldom received any mail. I was
envious of other seminarians who regularly received letters from
family and friends. Remember that it was long before the advent of the internet, cellphones and other means of instant messaging. So, I was quite surprised one day when I received a letter from the United States. It was from Fr. Jerome Calcagno. It contained several
postcards and a note from him explaining that he remembered how I wanted to collect postcards. The postcards commemorate the newly restored Statue of Liberty in Staten Island. I was touched by the unexpected gesture of thoughtfulness from Fr. Jerome. Imagine, months have passed since I last saw him and I only mentioned that I am fond of collecting postcards in one of my short conversations with him.

Still, it was not totally unexpected of Fr. Jay ( as we seminarians
affectionaly called Fr. Jerome) to show that he cared. I know that
eventhough his stay in Tandang Sora was relatively short, the whole
community came out to wish him farewell when it was time for him to return to the United States.

Farewell, Father. Even though I no longer collect postcards, I have enough good memories to last me a lifetime.

A Sad Link
by Arthur Jimenez

Emoy's writing moved me to google JEROME CALCAGNO.. Lo and behold a link.. the first hit in the google search result.. The Obituary of Father Jerome Calcagno, CM (1923–2005). I was speechless. My ears became numb... I just couldn't believe..

I was one of the privileged few who had a peek into Fr. Jerome's inner sanctum. I've been his room cleaner for the whole time he was with us at SVS. Although the cleaning assignments changed, he asked me to go there and check his room after the assigned cleaner did his part. Giving me a copy of the key to his room was an act I couldn't believe him doing... It was a privilege and a gift so special that I cherish until now.

It just took me, then, 10 to 15 minutes cleaning his room by the fire exit. First, there was nothing to clean except for some occasional hair that fell or fine dust that entered. Second, his room was sealed with windows often shut because it was airconditioned. My job was nothing compared to the "kuskos-piga-buhos" ritual of toilet cleaners... Nothing compared to cobweb removers "tingala-sungkit" moves. Everytime I entered his room, I was transported to another place in time with scents so different from the usual.. almost like opening a balikbayan box from the US..

Every time I cleaned and Fr. Jay was not around, he always left a note and a small present.. candies, stampitas, chocolates, some US magazines which needed further "CUM PERMISU SVS".. This thing made me really look forward to house cleaning time..

The way he wrote the letter "J" in his name is something I tried to copy with the way I wrote my name but to no avail. I kept the short notes he left me until I left SVS. The last time I heard from him, he was assigned in a parish in New Orleans. That was the return address he wrote when he sent me a Christmas card with a 20-dollar bill carefully wrapped in carbon paper... The dedication went, "Arthur, Merry Christmas!... Sorry, no baluts anywhere!"

Then this link.. and I'm at a loss... Why is it an obituary?

Fr. Jay, wherever you are.. Thank you!! I'm very sure, you know what I mean by that!

Who Can Ever Forget
by Jung Del Barrio

Who can ever forget Fr. Jerome Calcagno... He was our (Special Class) English/Religion teacher during my first year at SVS. Talking about fond memories, i have both bad and good ones. I'd start off with the bad then.

Remember Ronald "Bagyo" Bona? The monicker bagyo was actually for the volleyball serves Ronald had in his arsenal of volley skills which almost ended up in a fight during an inter seminary sportsfest. No libero would dare accept Ronald's serves. hehehe!

Anyway, Ronald then had a wound on his left leg which grew to around 50x when he had it topped with penicillin. He was seated in front of me during one of Fr. Jerome's lectures when, accidentally, I nudged "the wound". Ronald then erupted into a scream which also resulted into a scream from Fr. Jerome. Ronald tried to explain but to no avail so we were both sent out of the room. I also tried to, since I was the culprit but Fr. Jerome was too insistent. After a mouthful of prudent "what-nots" we decided to leave the room. Ronald went out first but when I started to turn my back I was again given a mouthful, telling me that i am very disrespectful. He said that I wasn't suppose to turn my back while I am being given those mouthfuls. Being the promdi and the fact that I was not able to speak for what I thought should be shrugged off since it was an accident, I cried... This was one of the many times that I used the chapel as my refuge whenever I succumbed to the usual homesickness of the newbies in the seminary.

Tough as he may have appeared to me, I learned something about Americans. They have to stand firm to what they believe is the right way to form a seminarian. Pinoys will always be pinoys. We sometimes get to be guilty even if we know for a fact that we are not. In short we visited Fr. Jerome in his room. Thankfully, we were able to deliver our prepared speech of apology. Apologies accepted. End of story. We got to see again the smile on Fr. Jerome's face whenever we see him in class.

The good one was when we were asked to memorize the poem "Who is Jesus Christ?" ..and mind you, we were also asked to recite that poem in front of the class... and you know what? To this day I can still recite the poem. It really pays when you memorize a poem by heart. and to top it all, to get even, I now ask my students to recite the same poem. During the time that I was reciting the poem I have always asked myself: "What good would this poem do to me?" ..except of course for the fact that we were taught the proper (American) pronunciation of every word not to mention the pauses and the breathing...

Fr Jerome, wherever you are, you are part of the foundation of every Special Class student you handled. You taught me a lot of things which a Pinoy formator can never teach. This may be too late but I really would like to thank you for sharing the gift of wisdom, the smile which launched 999 ships (second only to Manong Leva).. The same smile which pushed and will continue to push me to follow the footsteps of Lolo Enteng in my chosen vocation...

"Pussycat!!"
by Francis Tanglao

We are so fortunate we had the opportunity to know a great man/formator in Fr. Jerome. I remember the many times I turned him "red" with my silly/stupid answers to his questions.

He happened to teach our English class and he asked us if we could name cats.. (i.e. lions......) I was probably not paying attention at that moment and to his surprise when he called me my answer was... "PUSSYCAT!!" He turned very red and just burst into laughter. I will miss him.

(photo courtesy of Vincentian.Org)

PIS GRAND ALUMNI HOMECOMING - HULING TAGAY

2006-10-05T07:34:00.000-07:00

by Reynold Glenn Jaboneta

Bro. Joey C. Enriquez, C.M. professed brother of the Congregation of the Mission told me recently of the plan to close the Pre-Internal Seminary in Calumpang, Molo, Iloilo City. Bro. Joey is currently assigned here in De Paul College as Finance Director.

He attended one of the meetings for the programs and plans to be carried out for the closure. He told me of the plan for a grand reunion of all those seminarians who had lived and experienced formation in the PIS. The reunion is set next year by March. I will keep you posted of the details.

I am informing all those people who were once made PIS their home. It is because this early you can already make your arrangements and travel to Iloilo for the grand reunion. This means asking permission from your superiors and all vis-à-vis your work. I am told of the plan to invite your former students to attend the reunion.

De Paul College will be one of the venues for the said gathering.

See you guys on that day.

In our batch, we have Jim, Enca, Bonz, Alex, Bay, Levi, Noli, Dupet, Fr. Vhoung, I hope this list is complete.

Our former formators too will be present. In our case Fr. Johnny.

Isang Tula

2006-10-04T01:35:00.000-07:00

ni Emiliano Dumalaog

Sa muling pagsikat ng araw,
may mga buhay na sa mundong ito ay isisilang.
Kasama rin sa pamamaalam ng buwan at mga bituin,
may mga lilisan rin.
Bahagi na ng pag-ikot ng mundo,
ang hiwaga ng paggawa at pag-sira.
Lahat ay naaayon sa plano ng Maylikha,
sa panahong Kanyang itinakda.

Ang mga Kagila-gilalas na Pakikipagsapalaran sa Lupain ng Kangaroo at Bikini

2006-10-04T01:17:00.000-07:00

Ikatlong Liham
ni Totep Perez

mga kapatid !

Halleluyah !

Matiwasay akong akong dumating kanina sa Bond University (12nn Sept. 8, 2006). Kasabay kong dumating ang "Good Samaritan" sa katauhan ng isang Chinese, Wang Lin, with american nickname Ricky. Sabay kaming dumating ng Gold Coast Airport at nagkatabi sa upuan ng coaster. Meron siyang accommodation on - campus, hirap siya mag communicate sa English, tinulungan ko sa pakikipag - usap sa mga Aussie, tinulungan ko din pati pagbitbit ng bagahe niya (Balak yatang dalhin ang bahay nila, super dami ang gamit, wow! matindi mga tatak, designer! mayaman talaga kasi siya mismo ang magpapaaral sa sarili niya.) Ayun, nung nalaman na wala akong accommodation. Offer niya room niya for the meantime. Habang nasa security office kami para i-activate swipe card ng room niya, may isang Indian na nagtanong sakin kung Pinoy ako, yun pala, resident ang family niya sa Pinas. Nakasabay uli namin siya sa elevator, pinakilala niya sa amin ang isang staff sa Dormitory na Pinoy din pangalan Noel (ganda ng meaning ng name niya). Sabi ni Noel kakausapin daw niya ang kakilala niyang Pinay na malapit sa Bond na naghahanap din ng student boarders. Sana may resulta lakad niya at makalipat sana ako bukas para di naman ma - sanction si Wang Lin sa pagkupkop sa akin.

8PM dito ngayon, 6PM sa Pinas. Malamig hangin parang Baguio. Kanina pa kami naghahanap ni Wang Lin ng internet cafe meron pala dito sa basement ng library tawag batcave, free 24 hrs. Dito na lang muna update, wala pa ako gaano sa mood mag kwento kasi halos wala pa akong tulog simula ng umalis ako sa pinas.

By the way, enrolled na ako kanina lang, may student ID na. Sana magkasya ang allowance ko, mahal dito halos lahat ng bagay. Sa Monday simula ng classes ko, 4 subjects.. Naninibago ako sa pagkain, panay sandwiches lang uso dito sa mga students. KAANNNIIINNNN PPLLEEAAASSSEEE !Hayy, "Food Sickness" lang to sana di ako tamaan ng home sickness...

Sige po, inaantok na ko...til next update....

toteperez
My University is Bond

Mga Simpleng Bagay na Natutunan Ko sa Seminaryo

2006-10-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

ni Emiliano Dumalaog

Ang "putok" pala ay isang uri ng tinapay..

Ang G.G. ay isang laro o isang uri ng isda.

Sa halagang limang piso makakabili ka pala ng hamburger mula sa Burger Machine, softdrinks, kopya ng Sports Flash o ng Sports Weekly Magazine (hanggang limang piso lang kasi ang pinapayagan ni Fr. Lopez na nasa amin noon pero magtataka ka kapag lumalabas kami para sa CAT kung ano-ano ang nabibili namin).

Ang study time ay karugtong ng "siesta."

Ang housecleaning ay "taguan-pung."

(1984 photo of SVS Batch '88 uploaded to ACM-YahooGroup by Jonas Papasin)

Reflections on a Sunday Evening

2006-10-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

by Emiliano Dumalaog

Sometimes we need to be reminded of what is really important in life. When someone we know gets sick, we get reminded of how valuble one's health is. When someone close to us meets an accident or dies, we get reminded of how fragile and precious life really is. When we lose touch with a good friend, we get reminded of how friendship made our life a whole lot richer. Absence does make the heart grow fonder. We get little reminders every day. Maybe, we are not aware of it or we just don't care.

Ang mga Kagila-gilalas na Pakikipagsapalaran sa Lupain ng Kangaroo at Bikini

2006-10-01T18:04:00.000-07:00

Ikalawang Liham
ni Totep Perez

Mga kapatid,

At exactly 8:40pm (Manila Time) September 7 (Thursday), i'm bound for Bond University in Gold Coast Australia to commence my Master of Communication studies.

As expected, I experienced so many unfortunate events prior to my flight. (Pati nga pagkamatay ng Crocodile Hunter, sinisisi sa akin).

Umpisa muna tayo sa good news. Finally, may susundo sa akin sa airport courtesy of Bond. Muntik na akong di makakuha ng airport transfer request receipt kasi kelangang bayaran ko thru credit card. E, marginalized nga ako eh, meron akong credit pero walang card. Buti na lang naalala ko, my credit card si misis, ayun solve ang problema. (Kainis, ngayon ko lang naalala na may credit card pala si misis, e di sana di ako nagkaproblema sa housing accommodation. ...)

O di ba, segue na sa jinx experiences. ... Ito ang matindi, wala pa akong housing accommodation! Panong nangyari yun? Nasarhan ako ng on - campus accommodation kasi late na nga ako nag - enroll. Kaya sa off - campus ako humirit. Sabi ng manager ng Accommodation People, ang accommodation agency ng Bond, kelangan daw magdeposit muna ako para ma - secure ang accommodation ko. Dun nagsimula ang paghihirap. Wala akong perang pangdeposit kasi a day before ng flight pa makukuha ko ang settling allowance at first monthly allowance kung saan dun kukunin ang deposit. Marami sana ang nag - offer sa kin, biglang umurong. May magkapatid na students din ng Bond ang unang naglakas loob na nag - offer sa akin ng accommodation. Nagtanong sila kung ilang months ko gustong tumira sa kanila. Tiningnan ko ang cost ng deposit, good for 1 month, so sagot ko... i intend to stay with you for at least a month but I assure you that for sure I will extend....

Di naman ako sinabihan ng manager ng Accommodation People na may rule or law na minimum of 3 months ang lease contract sa kanila. So ayun, tinaggihan ako ng magkapatid!

Sunod na naglakas loob ay isang pulis. Tinaggap ko kaagad kahit na takot ako sa mga may baril kesa sa tumira ako sa bulsa ng kangaroo. Kaso, biglang dumating ang dalawa niyang anak na titira sa kanya hanggang Christmas. Di pa man nakatuntong sa Bahay ni Kuya Pulis, evicted agad ako.

Nag - offer uli sa akin ang manager ng room sa Varsity Towers (sosyal ito na student residence, parang hotel), may mga reserve yata sila para sa mga medyo malas na parehas ko... Ang housing deposit?... umaatikabong $ 1,020.00 (i guess Australian Dollars, P39 ang conversion)! !! Mga kapatid, US$1,450.00 lang dala ko, paano ako kakain nito?! Hingi ako ng advise ni Mam Bambot, parehas kami ng iniisip, super sosyal ang housing ko pero gutom ang aabutin ng bulate ko... Walang choice, di ko kayang tanggapin ang offer, marginalized lang po ako...

Kaya mga kapatid, boung tapang akong susugod sa "Down Under" na walang masisilungan man lang.... I was instructed to proceed as scheduled, like a good soldier, I obeyed without questions... .

Hindi pa po ito ang kumpletong horror story, trailer po pa lang ito. Pag may time, isusulat ko ang matitinding karanasan simula ng nang mag - apply ako sa Bond. Naalala ninyo yung kwento sa BIR ng isang free lance writer na naforward ko nga sa iba sa inyo? Panis, sisiw yun!

Munting kahilingan mga kapatid.... ipagdasal po ninyo ako. Ipagdasal din po ninyo ang Australia na sana'y hindi maapektuhan ng "special powers" ko... Pero magsaya na po kayo na maiiwan ko dahil.....UUNLAD NA ANG PILIPINAS, LUMAYAS NA ANG JINX!......

....Dasal ko din, sana swertihin na ako sa Australia... .OOOOPPPPSSSS, WALANG KOKONTRA! ANG KUMONTRA, IPAPAMANA KO ANG SPECIAL POWERS KO !!!

Vavuskah!

Toteperez
Hari Ng Sablay

Thank God for ACM

2006-09-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

by Dino Eloriaga

Isang Handog... Pasasalamat..

2006-09-27T01:24:00.000-07:00

It is with great joy that I write the first entry of this blog coinciding with the celebration of St. Vincent De Paul's Feastday.

Allow me to introduce a bit Handog Pasasalamat's Featured Contributors.. The write-ups will be updated as they submit a blurb about themselves.

Emiliano Dumalaog (SVS Batch '88) writes in trickles about memories of SVS, VHS and his life's treasured moments.
Totep Perez (VHS Batch '93) is doing a series on "Ang mga Kagila-gilalas na Pakikipagsapalaran ni Totep sa Lupain ng Kangaroo at Bikini." Currently he is in Australia doing his MA Studies sponsored by The Ford Foundation.
Alex Enano (VHS Batch '93) outlines his struggles in Ohio as a father to Zach and Coco and a husband to Jazz.
Dino Eloriaga (SVS Batch '81) is more known for his basketball prowess wayback his seminary days."I was known to be the most PIKON sa basketball, lahat na ata nakaaway ko," he adds. In his article he asks himself a simple yet probing question which every Vincentian Alumni can ponder upon: "Where have I been all these years?"
Arthur Jimenez (SVS '89) taga-katay, taga-masahe, taga-kopya at taga-dikit dito sa blog na ito ng inyong mga isinulat sa ACM-VAI YahooGroup . Nawa'y ang buhay natin ay laging maging isang "Handog-Pasasalamat!!"

Happy Feastday and May Our Tribe Increase!!!