bonlag

Priests' New Assignments

2011-04-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

(years 2011 - 2015)

Fr. Edgardo D. Abaño
Mission Rector
St. Joseph Catholic Mission
KIANGAN, Ifugao

Fr. Giovanni Abrasado, SVD
Mission Rector
Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Mission
MAYOYAO, Ifugao

Fr. Ricardo M. Amiling Jr.
Asst. Mission Rector
Sta. Rita Catholic Mission
BONTOC, Mountain Province

Fr. Jimmy Y. Aydinan
Mission Rector
St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Mission
HINGYON, Ifugao

Fr. Francisco D. Balacuit
VICAR GENERAL
Superintendent of Vicariate Catholic Schools

Fr. Noel M. Bantiyan
Mission Rector
Our Lady of Visitation Catholic Mission
ALFONSO LISTA, Ifugao

Fr. Allen C. Basilio
Mission Rector
San Roque Catholic Mission
NATONIN, Mountain Province

Fr. Felix M. Bay-ong
On Study Leave

Fr. John Marion B. Buyagawan
Mission Rector
Sto. Niño Catholic Mission
TINOC, Ifugao

Fr. Jeason A. Cabacab
Asst. Mission Rector
St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Mission
LAGAWE, Ifugao

Fr. Marcial Lloyd C. Castañeda
On Study Leave

Fr. Andrew K. Claver
Mission Rector
St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Mission
LAGAWE, Ifugao

Fr. Victor V. de Guzman
CHANCELLOR
Rector, Saint Peter's Seminary

Fr. Valentin C. Dimoc
Mission Rector
Proposed Mission Station of Ayangan
(Nunhabatan, Landing Sanafe, Hapid, Mawanini BECs of Lamut &
Huyo, Dulao, Oliligcon, Buyabuyan, Banga, and Tupaya BECs of Lagawe)

Fr. Pedro O. Dumpayan, Jr.
Formation Team
Immaculate Conception School of Theology
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Fr. Cerilo Ebisa, SVD
Mission Rector
St. Anthony Padua Catholic Mission
AGUINALDO, Ifugao

Fr. Ferdinand L. Fulatao
Mission Rector
St. Therese Catholic Mission
ASIPULO, Ifugao

Fr. Pablo G. Garay Jr., SVD
Mission Rector
Holy Family Catholic Mission
SADSADAN, Bauko, Mountain Province

Fr. Harry James M. Gawongna (ord. 04 May 2011)
Mission Rector
Holy Family Catholic Mission
HUNGDUAN, Ifugao

Fr. Caster K. Gonsadan
Mission Rector
Holy Rosary Catholic Mission
KAYAN, Tadian, Mountain Province

Fr. Patricio S. Guyguyon
Retired
St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Mission
LAGAWE, Ifugao

Fr. John B. Habawel
FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR
Mission Rector
St. Rita Catholic Mission
BONTOC, Mountain Province

Fr. Den Christian B. Iddoba
Mission Rector
San Gabriel Archangel Catholic Mission
PARACELIS, Mountain Province

2011-04-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

Fr. Martin Jaeggi
Teng-ab Pastoral Complex
BONTOC, Mountain Province

Fr. Pablo L. Lumiwan
Mission Rector
St. Joseph Catholic Mission
SAGADA, Mountain Province

Fr. Samuel K. Maximo
Mission Rector
St. Joseph Catholic Mission
SABANGAN, Mountain Province

Fr. Ronilo D. Pagao
Mission Rector
St. Michael Archangel Catholic Mission
BARLIG, Mountain Province

Fr. Armand A. Quindo
Mission Rector
St. Francis Catholic Mission
LAMUT, Ifugao

Fr. Joseph W. Requino
PASTORAL PROMOTER, Mountain Province District
Mission Rector
Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Mission
SADANGA, Mountain Province

Fr. Vincent Mynem C. Sagandoy
On Study Leave

Fr. Manuel L. Samonte
Mission Rector
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Mission
BAUKO, Mountain Province

Fr. Bento T. Tamang
Mission Rector
Immaculate Conception Catholic Mission
BANAUE, Ifugao

CHRISM MASS

2011-04-19T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Chrism Mass for the Holy Week celebration of the Vicariate of BonLag was held at the Sta. Rita Cathedral on 19 April 2011. Stressing on the value of priesthood and priestly communion, Bishop Rudy exhorted the importance of renewing the priestly promises made by every priest on his ordination day. This was in line with the announcement of new assignments of priests who were having their general reassignments this year (see separate news).

For the first time, the celebration included the re-commissioning of the lay ministers of the Eucharist of this local Church who also had their turn in renewing their commitment. On the eve of this occasion, Fr. Edgardo Abano gave a recollection talk attended by the Lay Ministers and priests of the Vicariate.

In the same mass, the Chrism Oil was consecrated and the Oil for the Annointing of the Sick blessed, as tradition of the Church dictates.

Except for Fr. Jimmy Aydinan, all the priests of the Vicariate including the religious priests and nuns were present in the affair. Am early lunch tendered by Bontoc Catholic Mission capped the morning.

Priests of BONLAG Support CBCP and Bishop Rudy's statement

2011-03-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

TO THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)

We, the clergy of the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe, reiterate our support to the stand of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) against the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill or the Responsible Parenthood (RP) Bill. (Cf. CHOOSING LIFE, REJECTING THE RH BILL, A Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, 30 January 2011)

After everything has been said and debated on, we believe that it is time for every conscientious Filipino to make a stand on this issue. We invoke the statement of our beloved Bishop Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D. on the rationality of the choice of life. (Cf. “…That You may Have Life to the Full” (John 10:10b), A Pastoral Letter of the Most Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D., Vicar Apostolic of Bontoc-Lagawe, Lent 2011)

Acting on the same statement of the Bishop of Bontoc-Lagawe, we make our promise to be vigilant on the decisions and acts of our elected officials whom we have voted into office to serve us and protect our rights and will.

Lastly, we urge everyone, especially all our faithful in the parishes of the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe to consider most seriously the choices of officials we make during elections and see to it that they, in turn, be responsible to their duties of serving the people’s will. We restate the stand we have always made in every election that our choice of officials should be maka-buhay, maka-tao, maka-Diyos and maka-kalikasan. This must be seen in the choices our government officials make.

Bishop Rudy issues Lenten Pastoral Letter

2011-03-11T16:49:00.000-08:00

“…That You may Have Life to the Full” (John 10:10b)"
(A Pastoral Letter of the Most Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D.,
Vicar Apostolic of Bontoc-Lagawe)
Lent 2011

Foreword

As we enter this holy season of Lent, I enjoin the Catholic faithful of this Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe to make a special reflection on the value of life - a life which the gospel of John had clearly distinguished when it differentiated the good shepherd from the thief. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

The central theme of Lent is this self-giving redemption which the Lord has gained for us on the cross. He who suffered and died brought life to all. Every conscientious Christian, therefore, who professes to follow Christ, must embrace this life-giving stance.

The CBCP has spoken

The stand of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines on the controversial RH Bill in Congress is anchored on two fundamental principles. I highly encourage everyone to read the CBCP’s Pastoral Letter. These principles enumerated there must be borne by every God-fearing human being, Catholic or non-Catholic, Christian or non-Christian. These are:

(1) Human life is the most sacred physical gift with which God, the author of life, endows a human being. Placing artificial obstacles to prevent human life from being formed and being born most certainly contradicts this fundamental truth of human life. In the light of the widespread influence of the post-modern spirit in our world, we consider this position as nothing less than prophetic. As religious leaders we must proclaim this truth fearlessly in season and out of season.

(2) It is parents, cooperating with God, who bring children into the world. It is also they who have the primary inalienable right and responsibility to nurture them, care for them, and educate them that they might grow as mature persons according to the will of the Creator. (CHOOSING LIFE, REJECTING THE RH BILL, A Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, 30 January 2011)

We have always been clear since the beginning that the RH Bill is a moral issue. It is about our basic human sensibilities. It is about our fundamental Filipino values. There is no way that the RH Bill can be made into law without hurting human sensibilities and disrespecting Filipino values.

As plain as that, thus, RH Bill MUST NOT BE PUT INTO LAW. It has been clear from all the many debates done, rallies shown, and disagreements contested that there will be groups, no matter how minor, whose moral sensibilities will be hurt by legislating the way we should act and feel. There are Filipino cultural values, like decency and responsible parenting, that will be disrespected by making this a law for all. And I, your Vicar Apostolic, stand by what the CBCP stands for: it would be morally corrupt to disregard the moral implications of the RH bill.

The crossroad is where we decide

The cross of Jesus Christ is not only a salvific symbol for us believers. It is also crucial (from its Latin root “crux”), in the sense that it is an imperative. Where this God’s gift of life is compromised, we ought to make a choice and decide: Are we for life or not?

The cross, therefore, by its shape reminds us of the crossroad where anyone who comes makes a choice of which path to take. But the same cross on which the Lord is found tortured and dead provides us an answer. Sacrifice is the way to this fulness of life.
Only the person who knows how to take pains to himself in order to give life to others does understand Christ’s redemption. And it is the only way to the salvation of mankind. A doctor to his patient, a teacher to his students, parents to their children, priests to their flock, and yes, government leaders to all people, especially those who are marginalized. Everyone needs to ask that redemptive question of love: Have I given enough? Have I suffered enough for another?

The opposite is the work of the thief: Greed, that knows only the self and Corruption, that only serves personal convenience and pleasure.

Together with our rejection of the RH Bill, therefore, is our rejection of greed and corruption. Remove graft and corruption in our government and we will solve the problem of poverty. Let those who have stolen from government return their loots and every Filipino will live in comfort.

The people, too, have spoken

Now, that everything has been said, our eyes are set on Congress. The people have spoken. It is time to watch whether the Congressmen and Congresswomen we have voted into office are truly Representatives of the People. Are they truly shepherds? Or are they thieves masked in disguise in order to save themselves politically?

I wait with enthusiasm how our own congressmen will decide and vote on this matter. This is indeed a time of revelation, a time of knowing what skin they wear. I enjoin every Filipino to watch all the proceedings in the House of Representatives and the Senate. This issue will reveal who they are whom we have entrusted with our suffrage.

Elections, too, are crucial

Every election, we cry to vote for people who are trustworthy, people who are maka-kalikasan, maka-tao, maka-Diyos, and maka-buhay. At the least, what this issue, little by little, reveals to us is our power as a people to vote and put a trustworthy person into office. Now, it is being clarified to us how important elections are. Elections are not only during campaigns. The essence of this political exercise lies on how our elected officials perform when they are already in office. Does our Congressmen choose life and, thus, worthy of being called maka-tao and maka-buhay?

But such question is true to all elected officials: President, Governors, Mayors, Board Members, Councilors, and even so, Baranggay Chairpersons. The choices they make in their office and the things they do and involve in inevitably dictate their own fate in the next elections. We can only say: we will watch their every move and remember what they do. No politician in these present times can remain silent on what he/she stands for. He/She should decide, let the people know of it, stand by it, and, suffer the consequences of his choice. After all, genuine people are made of sterner stuff; good politicians as well should be.

The Call of the Catholic Church

In the end, I reiterate the stand of the Catholic Bishops in the Philippines. I reiterate the stand of every right-thinking Christian. I reiterate my own stand: to reject the RH agenda and to choose life.

The Lord has spoken, thus, in the Gospel of John. It has helped us clarify who the thieves are and who the good shepherds are. And his clarification should lead us to the right choice: His own choice. The example of our Lord Jesus, the true Good Shepherd, on the cross is the central message of this season of Lent: a choice of life in full for all. We can only be partakers of Him by making the first step of choosing life above all.

May the Good Lord see us in a most special way in this season of Lent.

God bless us all!

+ RODOLFO F. BELTRAN, D.D.
Vicar Apostolic of Bontoc-Lagawe
February 1, 2011

Bro. Robert Dulnuan will be Deacon

2011-02-28T23:01:00.000-08:00

During the Ordination celebration of Fr. Ric Amiling, Bishop Rudy announced the ordination of Bro. Robert Dulnuan to the Order of Deacon. Bro. Robert is from Hingyon Catholic Mission and is finishing his theology this March at the San Carlos Seminary, Makati City.

The ordination is slated on 19 March 2011 at 9 o'clock in the morning at the San Carlos Seminary Chapel with the Most Rev. Bernardino Cortez, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Manila as the Ordaining Prelate.

Blessings Third in a Row

2011-02-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

The ordination of Father Ricardo M. Amiling, Jr. comes with so much blessings for the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe.

First of all, this is the third in a row that we are ordaining another priest for Bontoc-Lagawe. There were two ordinations last December, those of Frs. Jeason Cabacab and Ferdie Fulatao. After two months, comes another.

Second, this ordination is special for the people of Natonin. Less than a year ago, Fr. Denden Iddoba, the very first son of Natonin to become a priest, was ordained on 5 March 2010. Fr. Ric is only the second son of Natonin to be ordained for Bontoc-Lagawe. His grandfather Juan Maidun was a faithful leader of the Natonin Catholic Mission in its early years, recalls Fr. Eugene Van Ackere, CICM.

Hundreds of people flocked to the occasion held in the San Roque Church of the mission station on 25 February 2011. Bishop Rodolfo Beltran presided over the Eucharistic Celebration and the ordination rite. Together with him are the clergy of BonLag, some priests from Manila, including the formators of San Carlos Seminary where Fr. Ric graduated, and some former CICM missionaries who were former parish priests in Natonin that included Fr. Eugene Van Ackere, and Fr. Andre De Bleeker who baptized Fr. Ric when he was a child in the same church of San Roque.

There were also relatives of Fr. Ric who came all the way from USA to attend this joyful event.

In his thanksgiving, Fr. Ric thanked a long list of people that contributed to his vocation. People were touched by his humility and sincerity and were seen to be wiping their eyes in several moments during his speech.

The celebration ended with a sumptuous lunch prepared by the people of Natonin.

We look forward to a fourth blessing in a row!

Father Ferdie Ordained Priest

2010-12-30T17:11:00.000-08:00

A day after the ordination of Fr. Jeason Cabacab in Bauko, Fr. Ferdinand L. Fulatao, a native of Talubin, Bontoc is ordained at the Sta. Rita Cathedral, Bontoc, Mountain Province on 14 December 2010 by our Vicar Apostolic, Bishop Rodolfo Beltran.

Here is the message of Bishop Rudy which appears in the foreword of Fr. Ferdie's souvenir book:

MESSAGE

The ordination of Reverend Father Ferdinand Fullatao reminds us of some elements surrounding the birth of our Saviour – the very mystery which we are celebrating this season. I want to underscore two of these elements.

First is God’s favor. I am sure that there is no community today that is happier than Talubin, Fr. Ferdie’s home, because they are not only offering to God a son of their own, but this son is in fact their very first offering to God. It is not an unknown fact that some people up to now, unluckily, still do not give regard to Talubin. Some people even deride this community, short of saying, “Can anything good come from Talubin?” But God has shown his favor on Talubin. And now our answer to that question is a resounding “Yes!” Yes, something good – indeed, one of the best – is now coming out of Talubin. And this is a testimony of how God favors Talubin because Talubin has also been faithful to God.

Second is God’s wonderful power. The ordination of Fr. Ferdie reminds us that nothing is impossible with God. Everybody knows that Fr. Ferdie’s vocation to the priesthood came a little late to him. There is a joke going around for Fr. Ferdie that after celebrating a few masses, he shall already be preparing for his retirement.

But the Gospels for this season remind us of how God has worked wonders to Elizabeth who was old and barren, and to Zechariah who was way beyond his retirement age. In the same way God made a miracle to Mary who was found pregnant at a very young age but had remained a virgin without a husband! The birth of the Messiah, as a matter of fact, is a testimony to how God can do a miracle for anybody he wishes to do it. When God wills, he can do anything at anytime to anybody, and even the impossible. I am not saying that Fr. Ferdie’s ordination is against an impossibility. What I am underscoring is the power of God’s will. God wills that Fr. Ferdie becomes his priest and now he is one.

I pray that more men – young and even those who are old but are qualified – follow in the footsteps of Fr. Ferdie who has decided to offer his life for God and His church.

May our celebration of Christmas be meaningful and truly filled with awe at this God who brings favors and wonders into our lives.

God bless us all! Matago-tago tako am-in!

(signed) Most Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D.

Vicar Apostolic

Father JEASON CABACAB Ordained

2010-12-26T23:27:00.000-08:00

In the morning of 13 December 2010, Father JEASON Anoyan CABACAB, was ordained priest at the Bauko Catholic Mission, Bauko, Mountain Province.

In his homily, Bishop Rudy reminded the ordinand-priest of the reality of the priest's human frailty and God's abiding call to holiness. Fr. Armand Quindo, Mission Rector of Bauko Catholic Mission, led the people in the preparation for the ordination of Fr. Jeason who hails from Bauko. A thanksgiving mass is scheduled on 18 December 2010 in the Capinitan Chapel, Sabangan from where his mother hailed.

Fr. Jeason was born on September 23, 1982 in Bauko. He finished his philosophy at St. Dominic's Seminary, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya and his theology at the Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Bishop RUDY goes to ROME for the AD LIMINA visit

2010-12-06T23:12:00.000-08:00

Some 35 Northern Luzon bishops, including Bishop Rodolfo F. Beltran, Vicar Apostolic of Bontoc-Lagawe, were among the first batch of Filipino priests who flew to Rome for the quinquennial Ad Limina Apostolorum Visit to the Holy See from 27 November to 07 December 2010.

The word Ad Limina Apostolorum means "thresholds of the Aspostles." This is the obligation of local ordinaries to visit the Holy Father once in 5 years (quinquennial) to give an account of the state of their corresponding dioceses. It is also the time when these successors to the Apostles make a pilgrimage to the tombs of the apostles.

The Holy Father, in his audience with the Filipino bishops, commended them for their commitment to uphold life from conception and their efforts to counter any move to push for the approval of the Reproductive Health bill.

“In the light of this prophetic task, I commend the Church in the Philippines for seeking to play its part in support of human life from conception until natural death, and in defense of the integrity of marriage and the family,” Pope benedict XVI said.

DISTRICT TONGTONGANS

2010-08-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

Two simultaneous Tongtongans (Pastoral Assemblies) were held in the Districts of Ifugao and Mountain Province on August 5, 6 and 7, 2010 both centering on the theme of "collaboration" which was an idea lifted from the previous Northern Luzon Pastoral Forum.

Ifugao District held its Tongtongan in Lamut with the theme "Liturgy Alive through Pastoral Collaboration." Mountain Province District, on the other hand, held it in Teng-ab Pastoral Complex with the theme "Strengthening BECs through collaboration.

Both Tongtongans had a combined attendance of more than three hundred priests and laity.

Scenes from Farewell Mass for Bishop Claver

2010-07-25T02:43:00.000-07:00

Bishop Claver's Itinerary

2010-07-01T06:04:00.000-07:00

01 July, 8:00pm Mass at the Loyola House of Studies, Ateneo de Manila, QC
02 July, 8:00pm Mass at the Loyola House of Studies, Ateneo de Manila, QC
03 July, afternoon Arrival at St. Mary Magdalene, Lagawe, Ifugao
Mass in the evening
"Hudhud"
04 July, noontime Arrival at the Sta. Rita Cathedral, Bontoc, Mountain Province
05 July, 9:00 am Eucharistic Celebration, presided by Bishop Rudy Beltran
06 July, morning Start to Manila
06 July, evening Arrival at the Loyola House of Studies, Ateneo de Manila, QC
07 July, 2:30om Mass at the Loyola House of Studies, Ateneo de Manila, QC
Funeral follows at the Sacred Heart Novitiate, Novaliches, QC

Bishop Claver, 81

2010-07-01T05:58:00.000-07:00

We are reprinting here the news item on Philippine Daily Inquirer, 02 July 2010:

MANILA, Philippines—Bishop Francisco Claver, one of the ardent civil rights defenders during the Marcos martial law years, died Thursday, according to a report on the website of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

He was 81.

Claver, a Jesuit priest, succumbed to pulmonary embolism at 2:41 a.m. at the Cardinal Santos Memorial Center, the report said.

Former CBCP president and Cotabato archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo said of Claver: “Filipino prophet without peer, truest priest, innovative humble shepherd, a very dear friend. He is with Jesus whom he proclaimed with eloquent words, spoken and written, in all arena of human life. Who can take his place? My tears flow.”

Three New Deacons

2010-06-18T23:45:00.000-07:00

In a simple and very solemn celebration of the Eucharist marking the end the Year of the Priests, Bishop Rudy Beltran ordained three new deacons for Bontoc-Lagawe in the morning of 19 June 2010 at the Sta. Rita Cathedral, Bontoc, Mountain Province. They are Jeason A. Cabacab, Ferdinand M. Fullatao, and Harry James Gawongna.
Present in the celebration are the priests of Bontoc-Lagawe; Fr. Gerard Borja, CM, rector of De Paul House of Formation, who presented Deacons Ferdie and Harry to the Bishop in the Ordination Rite; Fr. Manuel Flores, Jr., spiritual director of Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan City; who in turn presented Deacon Jeason. There were also the parents of the ordinands, lay people of Talubin, Bontoc from where Rev. Ferdie hails, lay people of Mayoyao, Ifugao from where Rev. Harry hails, and lay people of Bauko from where Rev. Jeason hails.
In his homily, Bishop Rudy explained the deacon as primarily a servant of people. He also echoed the call of Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Rosales of Manila to conversion of the priests. He said that the holiness of priests must outshine the holiness of the lay people.
After the Mass, there was a program showcasing the dances of the different groups present in the occasion. A simple lunch was also served to everyone present. Bro. Russel Habungan, our seminarian regent staying in Bontoc, served as commentator in the mass and emcee of the program.
After this event, Rev. Harry would go back to Saint Vincent School of Theology to finish his studies. Rev. Ferdie would be wrapping up his thesis and some final requirements also at SVST and sooner would be given an assignment. Rev. Jeason had been in Bauko assisting the parish priest, Fr. Armand Quindo, who was currently on vacation.
This latest ordination brings the number of our deacons to five. Deacon Ricardo Amiling is presently assigned to Butigue, Paracelis. He was absent in the ordination because of illness. Deacon Ricardo Samonte is now taking care of Sabangan Catholic Mission.

Saint Peter's Seminary opens new Academic Year

2010-06-07T00:28:00.000-07:00

On 03 June 2010, four seminarian-orientees are accepted to Saint Peter's Seminary. They are James C. Aquino of Paracelis, Bayani Cabanilla Jr. of Sagada, Emy Castillo of Barlig and Melchor Suwaken of Bontoc.
Fr. Tugs de Guzman, rector of Saint Peter's, accepted them. This year, Bro. Frederick Galwagaw of Natonin, a returning seminarian from Natonin, is also joining the seminary as Prefect.
The new curriculum of seminary formation is introduced this year. In this new curriculum, the whole Academic Year is divided into three trimesters in order to guide more closely the academic improvement of the seminarians. Now the seminarians will be given grades at the end of every trimester. Subjects in the seminary curriculum include English grammar, Speech Class, Latin, Catechism, Intoduction to Philosophy, Basics of Liturgy, Introduction to the Bible, Sociology, Mathematics and an elective class.
Joining the faculty this year are Bishop Rudy Beltran, Fr. Tugs de Guzman, Fr. Bento Tamang, Fr. Ed Abano, Regina Agumdang, Stephanie Filog, Marcial Barrios, and the Catechetical Team composed of Baltazar Robles, Sharon Tamiking, and Magda Bagyan.

Ordination of New Deacons Announced

2010-05-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

On 19 June 2010, to celebrate the culmination of the Year of the Priests in honor of their patron St. John Mary Vianney, three candidates-seminarians of our Vicariate will be ordained to the Order of Deacons. They are Ferdinand Fullatao of Talubin (not in picture), Jeason Cabacab of Bauko, and Harry James Gawongna of Mayoyao.
The schedule of events for the clergy was proposed in the Mountain Province clergy meeting in Kilong, Sagada on 14 May 2010. Below is the proposed schedule:

17 May 2010
PM Arrival at Teng-ab
Concert at Bontoc Cathedral

18 May 2010
6:30 AM Eucharist
7:00 AM Breakfast
8:oo AM Clergy Meeting
12:00 PM Lunch
2:30 PM Games
5:00 PM Silence
6:00 PM Holy Hour (with a spiritual conference c/o Fr. Ed Abano)
7:00 PM Cocktail / Dinner

19 May 2010
9:00 AM Eucharistic Celebration and Ordination Rites
11:00 AM Program / Lunch

Bishop Claver back to Loyola House

2010-05-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

On 19 May 2010, Fr. Junjun Borres, Jr., the new Rector of San Jose sent this message to the Media and Communication Office of the Vicariate:
"Brothers, Bsp. Claver has been discharged from the hospital. You may visit him at Lucas Infirmary, Loyola House. Recommended visiting hours: 10 am - 12 noon; 3 pm - 5 pm. Pls. continue to pray for his recovery."

Father ED, 25 years in the priesthood

2010-05-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

On 15 May 2010 Fr. Ed Abano, our guest priest assisting in Sagada Catholic Mission, celebrated his 25th year anniversary in the priesthood in a simple Eucharistic celebration presided by Bishop Rudy Beltran and eight other priests of the Vicariate.
Bishop Rudy, in his homily, appreciated Fr. Ed's decision to serve our Apostolic Vicariate during his three-year leave from New Jersey. Present in the thanksgiving Mass were Frs. Tugs de Guzman, Joseph Requino, Denden Iddoba, Manny Samonte, Pablo Lumiwan, Sammie Maximo, Caster Gonsadan, and Armand Quindo. Bishop Rudy was assisted by Rev. Ricky Samonte.
At the end of the celebration, Fr. Ed thanked the Bishop for accepting him in the Apostolic Vicariate. He expressed his being "blessed" for the last months that he had been serving the people of Sagada and BonLag as a whole. He said, "I feel I have done more things in the last four months than in my whole 25 years in the ministry."
Also present in the occasion are Fr. Ed's family and close relatives who had come all the way fom Pampanga. After the Mass, the community had a taste of Pampango delicacies specially prepared by Fr. Ed's family as part of their gift to him. On the eve of the celebration, the Mountain Province District clergy held their meeting in Kilong to celebrate with Fr. Ed ahead of time. Also present in the meeting but were not in the Mass because of other schedules were Frs. John Habawel, Bento Tamang, and Andrew Claver.
Fr. Ed will fly to New Jersey on 27 May 2010 and come back on 04 June 2010. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Metuchen on 18 May 1985.

Bishop Claver is out of the ICU

2010-05-15T04:15:00.000-07:00

After just a few days in the Intensive Care Unit of the Cardinal Santos Memorial Hospital, Bishop Claver has now been moved to a regular room for recuperation. According to Fr. Junjun Borres, SJ, Rector of San Jose Seminary, the doctors are amazed at how Bishop Claver, now 81, is showing all positive signs towards full recovery.
Bishop Claver has undergone a triple bypass operation and surgery of the mitral valve on 04 May 2010.
The readers who give comments for the Bishop are assured that their messages reach him.

Bonlag Prelate Calls for Clean, Honest Elections (reprise from PIA files)

2010-05-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

BONLAG PRELATE CALLS FOR CLEAN, HONEST ELECTIONS

Friday, 19 March 2010 19:46

BONTOC, Mt. Province -As the May 10, 2010 polls draw near, the prelate of Bontoc-Lagawe (BONLAG) calls for a clean and honest elections.

Speaking to about 35 Social Action Workers from Ifugao and Mt. Province, Bishop Rodolfo Beltran of BONLAG said that it is our duty to contribute in nation building through a clean and honest elections.

"I pray that all our efforts in trying to build our nation through clean and honest elections will be blessed," Beltran said.

With the theme, "Through the years. . . forward ever, …..backward never" , the Social Action and Development Center-Monitoring Team (SADC-MT) of the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe headed by Fr. Valentin Dimoc, SADC Director converged for a general assembly.

Beltran disclosed that with the active participation of the SADC who heads the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting(PPCRV), illegal conduct of elections will not be allowed.

He therefore hailed the participants who are sacrificing a lot to achieve the church’s goal of a clean and honest elections. "If we are not here, who will do it for us?," Beltran said.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the SADC volunteers from the different Mission Stations (MS) of the vicariate and their counterparts in the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs).

"Whatever efforts we contribute means a lot for this coming elections," Beltran said adding that these are for the good of the country because the social action workers participate in nation building. **Vency D. Bulayungan/PIA-Ifugao

PASTORAL LETTER on the National Elections: "Let our Faith in the Risen Lord Eradicate what is Evil in Politics

2010-05-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

Dear People of God in the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) and Barangays, we greet you with the same greeting of the Lord Jesus Christ after His resurrection from the dead: "Peace be with you!" His greeting and blessing for His followers is peace. Peace is a relationship of fairness among the people and a situation of well-being within a community.

When the followers of the Lord who are in Government, in Civil Society and in the Church work together for the reduction of poverty and for the well-being of the people, there will be genuine peace in our Land. You who are in the grassroot level - the BECS and the Barangays - are especially called by the risen Lord Jesus. He tells you today, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you" (John 20:21). Also, He assures us, "And I will be with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). We, therefore, have nothing to fear.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, especially the registered voters, the Lord is calling you to take courage and aspire for the common good of the people. Let us all work together to reject the evil of vote-buying and vote-selling. Let us not sell our dignity as voters and as Children of God. Let us not sell our future and the future of the young people. Judas sold our Lord Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, but for us who are faithful followers let us not sell our sacred votes. There is no justifiable reason to sell or buy votes in the eyes of God because vote-buying and vote selling is a terrible evil in our political affairs.

We appeal to all elders and Senior Citizens to let your light continue burning. As disciples of the Risen Lord Jesus, uphold our indigenous and Gospel values of honesty and fairness in choosing candidates for political leadership and public service. You are looked upon as source of good counsel because of what you have realized through the years of life's journey with the guidance of the Spirit of the Lord. As living examples to the young generation, you have the mission of our Lord Jesus Christ to help eradicate the sin of vote-buying and vote-selling.

We appeal to all young people to maintain your idealism even when you see the unfaithfulness of some voters who readily sell their votes. Do not lose hope but remain faithful in verbally opposing any existence of vote-buying and vote-selling.

To those who are greatly tempted to sell their votes because of poverty or any great need, remember the words of the Prophet Isaiah, "Be comforted, my people, be strengthened, says your God" (Isaiah 40:1). You are being assured by the prophet of God that divine assistance is sure to come. It is the Lord God who will eventually remove the bondage of poverty over you by sending dedicated people to work for the common good and real development of poor communities.

To those who are all too willing to become instruments of vote-buying, listen to what the Prophet Isaiah has to say: "These people approach me in words; they honor me with lip-service, while their hearts stay afar... Woe to those who hide deep from God their plans, who work in the dark and say, "Who will know and who will see us?" (Isaiah 29: 13,15). Repentance is the way to salvation. Do not tempt those voters who are in dire need into committing the sin of selling votes. The prophet has this warning to you vote-buyers, "Woe to those who rob the poor of their rights and deprive the helpless of justice!... what will you do on the day of punishment? Where will you flee for help when disaster suddenly comes? Where will you save your wealth? You can do nothing but cringe among the captives and exiles or fall down among the slain. Yet for all this God's anger does not subside, his hand is ready to strike" (Isaiah 10:1-4).

Brothers and sisters in the Family of God, if we are one in unity and solidarity to eradicate vote-buying and vote-selling, the Lord God promises us through the Prophet Ezekiel, "I shall give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you. I shall remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I shall put my spirit within you and move you to follow my decrees and keep my laws. You will live in the land I gave your ancestors; you shall be my people and I will be your God. I will free you from all your uncleanness. I shall summon the wheat to make it plentiful and so keep famine away from you. I shall see that the fruits of the earth and the produce of the fields are plentiful and that you no longer suffer the disgrace of famine among the nations" (Ezekiel 36:26-30).

Brothers and sisters in the risen Lord Jesus Christ, the message of the Prophet Ezekiel is clear: let us trust in the promise of God our Creator rather than trust in the promises of those who are trying to buy their leadership and public service. As faithful disciples, let us change what is evil in politics and make it clean. Let us bear witness to the Word of God and transform patronage politics into good governance. Together with the Lord and by His grace, we can make a change.

May the Lord of our Salvation bless and protect us. Amen.

(sgd) Most Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D.
and the clergy of the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe

New Directors for Family & Life Ministry, CWL

2010-05-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

With the demise of Fr. Vicente Bongabong on 21 January 2010, two new vacant posts were filled up by younger clergy. On 13 April 2010, during the Clergy meeting in Lagawe, the appointments of Fr. Pablo Lumiwan as Director for Family & Life Ministry and Fr. Bento Tamang as Spiritual Director of the Catholic Women's League were announced and confirmed.
Fr. Pablo is the current mission rector of Natonin while Fr. Bento, of Sadanga.

Youth Camp in Aguinaldo

2010-05-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

This year's Youth Camp was held in Aguinaldo, Ifugao on April 28 to May 3, 2010. Amidst the outpouring of rain, the Camp was attended by some 319 delegates all over Bontoc-Lagawe without the youth of Tinoc, Hungduan, Alfonso-Lista and Kayan.
With the theme "Sharing the Word, Living the Eucharist," Fr. Caster Gonsadan, the new Youth Director spearheaded this occasion. The main speakers talked about the theme, Fr. Teody Saluba, SVD, former parish priest of Aguinaldo on the Word, and Fr. Ed Abano of Sagada Catholic Mission on the Eucharist.
Almost everyone went home with a plan of echoing to their respective mission stations the fruit of this week long gathering.

Bishop Claver Undergoes Surgery

2010-05-04T18:36:00.000-07:00

At 4:11pm of 04 May 2010, a text message from Fr. Junjun Borres, SJ, the new Rector of San Jose Seminary confirms the completion of the surgery of Bishop Cisco Claver, SJ at the Cardinal Santos Memorial Hospital. Aside from the triple bypass done on his heart, the mitral vein is also operated on. "He is looking okay," the surgeon says after the surgery

Bishop Rudy and the priests of Bontoc-Lagawe are happy with the news.

It will be recalled that some two weeks ago, Bishop Claver has been rushed to the Cardinal Santos Hospital after having fallen in his room. After some initial check-up, his doctors has advised that he needed to undergo heart operation. After explaining to him the chances of undergoing triple bypass, Bishop Cisco decided to go for it.

Fr. Martin Jaeggi writes from Europe

2010-04-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

As you may know by now, Fr. Martin Jaeggi is on a 6-month sabbatical from January to June 30, 2010. We expect him to be back in the first week of July.
Here is an e-mail (unedited) he has sent Fr. Tugs de Guzman, who is also the Vicariate Director for Media and Communications, on April 17, 2010, during the spread of the ashfall in Europe caused by a previous eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokul volcano on April 13:

Dear Tugs,
sitting in the train to Munich I return to long neglected duties: to answer some mail...
Funny: whereas practically all European airports are closed the railways are overfilled. So this morning I was told that I will have to stand from Zürich to Munich - some 4 hours. All the seats booked already. As I came to Zürich the wagon I entered was nearly empty...
I will attend a Bibliodrama with my old 'guru' Rudi Pöhl SVD.

Time is flying indeed! I guess Maurice Galasa will have left for Zambia already. Do you have an e-mail of his? He gave it to me but I lost it...
the clergy recollection July 12-16 is entered in my agenda. Do you know already where it will take place?

The week from April 26 I intend to travel to Barletta, in the south of Italy, to see OSB sisters from Vigan. Passing Rome I hope to meet Marcs, of course. Any news about Saps taking up his studies in Europe? Any news about William? What are his (or Bishop Rudi's) plans (with him)?
And what about St. Peter's seminary, your old / your new crew?
How is Teng-ab without Fr. Bong? And how is Manny's health? - many questions...
Take it easy - as much as you can - and enjoy life as much as I do!!!
Greetings to Bp. Rudy and everybody!

Martin

Natonin has Another Clergy

2010-03-23T20:01:00.000-07:00

In the morning of 20 March 2010, Rev. Ricardo M. Amiling Jr. was ordained deacon at the San Carlos Seminary Main Chapel. Presided by Bishop Bernardino Cortez, D.D., the occasion saw five other deacons, including two Vietnamese, all from San Carlos, ordained.
Rev. Rick is the second son of Natonin to be ordained this year. On 05 March 2010, Fr. Denden Iddoba was ordained the first priest of Natonin in their hometown.
Present in the event at San Carlos were Frs. Bento Tamang, Vocations Director; Denden Iddoba of Bontoc Catholic Mission; Tugs de Guzman, Chancellor of Bontoc-Lagawe; and Bro. Vincent Pinaching of San Jose Seminary, also a son of Natonin. The family of Rev. Rick was also present.
In the Catholic Church, the term "clergy" is used to refer to those who are ordained ministers. Deacons, priests, and bishops are technically part of the clergy.

First Priest of Natonin

2010-03-08T19:46:00.000-08:00

In a show of love and support from the whole Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe, the Catholic Mission Station of Natonin has witnessed the very first ordination to the priesthood of a true son, Fr. Den Christian Balaso Iddoba on 05 March 2010.
Thousands of people including the clergy of BonLag gathered under the town's covered court to celebrate this big event. No less than our own Bishop Rudy Beltran led the Eucharistic celebration. Noteworthy was the presence of Bishop Carlito Cenzon, CICM of the Diocese of Baguio whose early assignment as a young priest included Natonin.
Two of Natonin's sons who were also expecting to follow Fr. Denden's steps were present in the occasion, Bro. Rick Amiling Jr. from San Carlos Seminary, and Bro. Vincent Pinaching from San Jose Seminary, both from Manila.
After the occasion, Fr. Tugs de Guzman, Chancellor of Bontoc-Lagawe, announced the new assignment of Fr. Denden. He would be the official assistant mission rector of Bontoc Catholic Mission. The ordination to the Diaconate of another Natonin son, Rick Amiling Jr. was also announced. Bro. Rick would be ordained deacon on 20 March 2010 at the San Carlos Seminary Main Chapel.
Among the happiest in this special event was Fr. Pablo Lumiwan, Mission rector of Natonin Catholic Mission, who had been on the frontline preparing for this historical event.

Remembering Fr. Bong

2010-02-09T07:43:00.001-08:00

The assignment record of Fr. Bong has this to say:

1966-1970 Abatan, Buguias, Benguet
1970-1972 Bontoc, Mountain Province
1972-1974 Pudtol, Apayao
1974-1976 Lagawe, Ifugao
1976-1979 Saint Francis Xavier Seminary, Pacdal, Baguio City
1979-1980 France
1980-1987 San Pablo Seminary, Crystal Cave, Baguio City
1987-1990 Abatan, Buguias, Benguet
1990-1993 Lagawe, Ifugao
1993-1997 Natonin, Mountain Province
1997-2001 Sabangan, Mountain Province
2001-2005 Sagada, Mountain Province
2005-2007 Bontoc, Mountain Province
2007-2010 Retired

Fr. Tony Astudillo Visits the Philippines, Donates to Victims

2009-11-19T02:54:00.000-08:00

From the funeral of his late brother Primitivo, Jr., Bishop Rudy travelled to Manila to meet Fr. Tony Astudillo, parish priest of the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community in Walnut, California, USA who was here for a short break and also to donate to the victims of Ondoy and Pepeng.
Bishop Rudy accompanied Fr. Tony to the Diocese of Antipolo and met Bishop Gabriel Reyes to hand over some cash donations and 14 balikbayan boxes from Fr. Tony's parish. The towns of Cainta, Taytay, and Rodriguez and the City of Marikina - which are all heavily affected by Ondoy - are parts of the Diocese of Antipolo.
Bishop Rudy came to Teng-ab, Bontoc on November 12, a day before he celebrated his birthday. Fr. Tony Astudillo, together with some friends, came to visit Teng-ab on the Bishop's birthday. He has given cash donations to the Apostolic Vicariate and some 43 balikbayan boxes of goods from his parishioners in Walnut, CA. The group left on November 15 for Manila for Fr. Tony's flight back to the US on the following day.
Fr. Tony had been a priest of the Diocese of Abra until he left for the US 28 years ago. Since then, he has joined the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and served in 5 different parishes in California including the St. Lorenzo Ruiz.

New Assignment

2009-11-19T02:38:00.000-08:00

Bishop Rudy has signed new appointments to answer the need of some positions to be filled up.
Fr. Bento Tamang is the new Mission Rector of the Our Lady of Assumption Mission Station, Sadanga, Mountain Province replacing Fr. Marcial LLoyd Castaneda who is now in Rome for further studies. Fr. Bento, who is also Rector of the St. Peter Seminary, will now be full time Mission Rector.
Replacing him as Rector of the St. Peter Seminary is Fr. Tugs de Guzman, who is also currently the Mission Rector of St. Joseph Mission Station, Sagada, Mt. Province and Chancellor of the Apostolic Vicariate.
Meanwhile, Fr. Allen Basilio is now Assistant Mission Rector of St. Paul Mission Station in Hingyon, Ifugao. And so, Deacon Den Christian Eddoba goes to Sta Rita Mission Station in Bontoc to assist Fr. John Habawel, its Mission Rector.
Fr. Noel Bantiyan, who has been temporarily taking care of Sadanga Mission Station, is now preparing to take over the Our Lady of Visitation Mission Station, Alfonso-Lista, Ifugao after Christmas. Meanwhile, he is in Kiangan, Ifugao to look after his mother who is sick and assist Fr. Sammy Maximo, the Mission Rector of St. Joseph Mission Station in Kiangan.
Deacon Ricky Samonte is now staying in Teng-ab to assist also the nearby Mission Stations while further learning Ilokano and attending some programs in the Emmaus Center in Quezon City.

RIP: Harvey and Primitivo, Jr.

2009-11-08T16:17:00.001-08:00

We mourn the deaths of Harvey Gonsadan, brother of Fr. Caster, who died in a motorcycle accident at the age of 27 on October 22, 2009; and Primitivo Beltran, Jr., 74, eldest brother of Bishop Rudy who died of sickness on October 30, 2009.
May they rest in peace!

Bishop Claver Gets Well

2009-11-08T16:09:00.000-08:00

After a stroke in October, Bishop-Emeritus Cisco Claver's condition has been improving. He visited Bontoc and stayed at Teng-ab Clergy House on October 31. On November 2 he blessed the graves of his parents and celebrated with his family at their house now occupied by Vice Governor Loy Claver and his family.
After a gruelling travel from Manila, the Bishop's blood pressure has remained normal. He has been trying to speak and doing some short walks. "His voice is now audible and he can be understood," Bishop Rudy recounts.
Bishop Claver is back in Manila and stays at the Jesuit Residence in the Ateneo campus in Quezon City.

National Clergy Discernment

2009-11-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

On October 13-15, 2009, more than two hundred from all over the Philippines gathered at the San Carlos Seminary Layforce in Guadalupe, Makati City for a national gathering of the clergy to discern on their prophetic role in the modern day world. This gathering was organized by a group of priests and bishops headed by Msgr. Manny Gabriel of the Diocese of Paranaque.
Present in the meeting are our own Frs. Val Dimoc, Tugs de Guzman, and Caster Gonsadan and Rev. Ricky Samonte.

WE THANK OUR DONORS

2009-10-22T16:31:00.001-07:00

Bishop Rudy Beltran has not issued a formal letter of appeal in behalf of the victims of mudslides in Kayan Catholic Mission. This is due to the fact that the clergy of the Apostolic Vicariate has not met yet to make concrete plans regarding the victims, especially the surviving families from the incident. But the fact that the Vicariate has opened a bank account specifically for contributions for the victims of the past typhoons means that donations have been coming, and the Bishop thanks these people who have called him sending their sympathies.

On October 8, 2009, a village just a few meters away from the Catholic Church in Kayan, Tadian, Mt. Province was wiped away by a landslide. 35 people died immediatedly due to this catastrophe. On October 10, the eve of their scheduled parish fiesta celebration of the Holy Rosary, Bishop Rudy including 9 clergy celebrated a funeral mass for these dead victims.

"We are aware that we are not the only ones affected by these calamities," says Bishop Rudy. "There are, in fact, more in Benguet and the lowlands. They also need help immediately. We call on those who are donating relief goods to give them instead to those victims. Our people in the Vicariate have been responsive to the immediate needs of the victims, burial of the dead, and relief items for the survivors." He adds. "However, we will be accepting financial donations for the long-term plans of relocating and rehabilitating the families who survived from these calamities," says the Bishop in his interview with the CBCP.

"It is such a blessing to see that despite our people's poverty, they have been generous and quick in giving and sharing what little they have to the victims," says Fr. Tugs de Guzman in his interview with a Radio Veritas correspondent. "What selflessness! I hope others will follow suit," he adds in prayer. Fr. de Guzman is the Chancellor of the Vicariate.

Meanwhile, Fr. Andrew Claver, Mission Rector of Kayan Catholic Mission, with the help of some priests and volunteers, has started the Stress Debriefing of the surviving families, and also, of the Holy Rosary Catholic School who lost their principal, Mr. Lecio Gaoay, and a few students to the tragedy. "We need to do this before we can move on," he says. Fr. Andrew is also the Director of the Catholic School.

Other parishes have been gathering relief goods which include rice, clothes, canned goods and noodles and bringing them to Kayan. There have also been unexpected financial contributions from the BECs of the Vicariate. The Apostolic Vicariate is also cooperating with the Local Government Units in whatever plan they have for these surviving families.

For more financial donations, please see the details on the right strip of this page on how to send in your help.

35 Die in KAYAN Mudslide

2009-10-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

On 08 October 2009, a day after its feast of the Holy Rosary, Kayan Catholic Mission lost 35 of its people under a mudslide a few meters away from the Holy Rosary Catholic Church where Fr. Andrew Claver was waiting for some of those very people to evacuate to his Rectory.
"I went to see them at about 5 0'clock," Fr. Andrew recounted. "I even told them to move into the Rectory for the rains continued to pour heavily." "Obserbaran mi pay bassit, Apo." ("We will wait and see for a little while, Father") They told their parish priest. Not very long after Fr. Andrew had gone back to the Rectory, there was sound of earth slide at about 6:15 pm. 18 houses were trapped under a big portion of the mountain that moved down to cover the village by the hillside. Initially, 35 people were feared to be covered alive by the earth, including Mr. Lecio Gaoay, the young and energetic principal of the Holy Rosary Catholic School, together with his wife and children.
Learning about the news, Bishop Rudy Beltran cancelled his appointments for the next days and went to see Kayan Catholic Mission on 09 October 2009. With him were Frs. Bento Tamang, Tugs de Guzman, Manny Samonte, Allen Basilio and Rev. Ricky Samonte. Fr. William Bilag was seen to have visited the Catholic Mission coming ahead of the group.
Meanwhile, Bontoc Catholic Mission led by Fr. John Habawel organized its Parish Council and lay leaders as a "relief operation center" in support of the people of Kayan. Late in the afternoon of 09 October, Fr. John went also to Kayan to see the tragedy.
It was amazing how in the midst of a tragic event, people from the BECs of Kayan, including those from the outside came in droves to help in whatever way they could. Men started making coffins for the victims, while women started cooking for those who were busy excavating the earth. Health workers attended to the dead bodies found, while some were busy manning the information desk. Men, young and old, came with their shovels and tools to help in retrieving the trapped bodies. Children were also seen clearing the streets of mud and rocks.
On 10 October 2009, Bishop Rudy together with the Mountain Province District priests mentioned celebrated a Mass at the gymnasium. At that time, 22 people had been recovered under the mudslide. Fr. Armand Quindo was also in the Mass.
According to Bishop Rudy, assistance from different groups had begun to arrive, including that of Caritas Manila and a pledge from the Apostolic nuncio Archbishop Edward Adams.

Fr. Caster K. Gonzadan Ordained

2009-09-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Two days after the ordination of Fr. Allen Basilio in Bontoc, another priest is added to the list of clergy of Bontoc-Lagawe. Father Caster K. Gonzadan, of Alfonso-Lista, Ifugao was ordained on 25 September 2009 at his own parish, Alfonso-Lista Catholic Mission.
As early as the morning on the eve of Fr. Caster's ordination, people started butchering 6 cows and 16 pigs, and cooking them for the next day's celebration. By that one could tell how big an affair the parishioners, led by its Mission Rector Fr. Christopher Arellano, had been preparing for.
Seminarians from San Carlos Seminary, mostly Fr. Caster's classmates, including some of his formators came on the eve of the ordination day. Bishop Rudy together with most of the Mt. Province district clergy also arrived on that eve.
Although the storm "Ondoy" was already creeping in, the Ordination was celebrated no less beautifully. During the homily, Bishop Rudy reminded Fr. Caster of the priest's dependence on God's grace and his role as a shepherd of Christ's flock. He explained to the ordinand the meaning of the Rite itself, his promises, and most especially the role of the community in making Fr. Caster a priest "from the people and for the people."
At the end of the ceremonies. Fr. Caster thanked everyone especially his community - friends, former classmates, neighbors and family - for giving all their support to the celebration. His voice cracked in thanking his family for their unconditional love especially as he was a "boy of poor health" who needed special care and attention.
Fr. "Boyet," the name he had been missing to hear since he had left Alfonso-Lista for his seminary formation, recalled how he had been blessed by the presence of his friends and family. He also took the courage in reminding his immediate family that now he "belongs to the bigger family of God" and he was no more solely "theirs" but "shared to others."
After the Eucharistic celebration, there was a big lunch served to all and a program followed.
Meanwhile, the priests immediately started preparing for a meeting on the planning of a voters' education program as a result of the August 2008 Tongtongan. The weather became worse in the afternoon and so people began going back home.
Father Caster is assigned as parochial vicar of Banaue Catholic Mission to assist Msgr. Francis Balacuit.

Fr. Allen C. Basilio Ordained

2009-09-27T22:39:00.000-07:00

On 23 September 2009, Fr. Allen C. Basilio was ordained a priest in a Eucharistic Celebration presided by Bishop Rodolfo Beltran at the Sta. Rita Cathedral, Bontoc, Mt. Province. The event, prepared by the communities of Bontoc Catholic Mission which included Bay-yo from where Fr. Allen's mother hailed, was attended by the different Mission Stations but mostly those which were near Bontoc. There was a big delegation from Buguias, Benguet where Fr. Allen was born and a few clergy from the Diocese of Baguio.
In his homily, the Bishop reminded Fr. Allen of his human limitations as a priest. "Taokanto pay laeng," ("You will remain a man") Bishop Rudy told the new priest. But he proceeded reminding Fr. Allen of the priests' need to always be attuned with God as it is Him who has called them.
During the Rite of Ordination, Fr. John Habawel, mission rector of Bontoc Catholic Mission and former Rector of Immaculate Conception School of Theology from where Fr. Allen had graduated, introduced the ordinand to the Bishop in the name of the Mother Church.
After the Mass, the rains started to pour while the people shared the lunch prepared for everyone.
Fr. Allen was announced to become the Assistant Parish Priest of Hingyon Catholic Mission, Hingyon, Ifugao.

Porta Vaga Fellowship

2009-09-10T19:19:00.001-07:00

The annual fellowship of the staff of Porta Vaga in Baguio City including our Vicariate Staff and that of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk will be hosted by the Diocese of Baguio on 14 to 16 September 2009.
The first two days of the event which will include a day of recollection, a half-day seminar, and a half-day sportsfest will be held in Maryheights, Baguio City. The culminating event will be held at the Cathedral with a celebration of the Mass followed by a lunch at the covered patio.
This fellowship is celebrated annually to foster friendship among the three local churches of the Cordilleras and as a continuing formation of their pastoral workers and staff.
Please be informed that the Teng-ab Offices will be closed on those days. Business will resume on Thursday, 17 September 2009.

Bishop Joins "Cor Unum" Retreat in Taiwan

2009-09-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Bishop Rudy Beltran will leave for Taiwan on Saturday, 5 September 2009, to attend Spiritual Exercises organized by the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum" on 6 to 11 September 2009.

"Cor Unum" is the agency of the Holy See responsible for expressing the care of the Church towards those in need. It fosters charitable works by the faithful, assists those in urgent or calamitous situations, and those in special need of assistance. It is currently headed by Archishop Paul Josef Cordes.

This international event, to be attended by Bishops, priests, and religious, will be hosted by the Fu Jen University, the Catholic University and one of the biggest in Taiwan. Aside from the celebrations of the Mass, spiritual conferences, and prayers which are part of a regular Spiritual Exercises, "there will be an opportunity for small group dialogues, sharing, and a forum for questions," says Bishop Rudy. And this is where the Bishop is particularly interested in joining. "After all, this occasion is free of charge," he adds. Expenses of participants coming from poor churches are reimbursed by the Pontifical Council.

The Bishop has been in Belwang, Sadanga on the weekend to bless the new Chapel and administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to the faithful there. On Sunday, he presided over the morning Mass and Harvest festival in Bontoc. From there he proceeded to attend the installation of Bishop Jose Romeo Lazo in the Diocese of San Jose Antique on 1 September 2009. On Friday, 4 September 2009, he will be the main celebrant at a Marian Novena Mass in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig on the invitation of Bishop Tumulak and its parish priest Fr. Daniel Tansip.

INTERVIEW: Bishop Claver on "The Making of A Local Church"

2009-09-02T02:48:00.000-07:00

(courtesy of http://www.ucanews.com/2009/08/26/a-participatory-church-would-challenge-hierarchical-power-bishop-says/)

QUEZON CITY, Philippines (UCAN) -- Retired Bishop Francisco Claver, in his new book, "The Making of the Local Church," shares his vision of a participatory and inculturated Church.

The Jesuit anthropologist spoke with UCA News about the tensions such a concept has created within the Church, including the challenge it poses to the established power structure.

Bishop Claver, 80, was the first bishop to come from the indigenous Bontoc people of the northern Philippines. He was ordained in 1961 and appointed the first bishop of Malaybalay, in the southern province of Bukidnon. He served there until 1983.

From 1995 until he retired in 2004, he headed the apostolic vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe. He also served in the 1980s as chairman of the Philippine bishops' Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace.

On Aug. 24, two days before he was to launch his book at the Jesuits' Loyola School of Theology in Quezon City, he shared with UCA News the highlights of his ministry and the insights he gained, including his vision of Church.

The interview follows:

UCANews: How do you define the "local Church"?

BISHOP FRANCISCO CLAVER: It is a Church of bishops, priests, Religious and laity trying in their own way to make the Gospel come alive in their communities, where members interact as Christians and human beings.

You highlight inculturation in your book.

Inculturation is the dialogue between the people and the Spirit, and it must take place at all levels of the life of the local Church. Faith is a gift of the Spirit, and culture belongs to the people. If you put the two together, then the Spirit will talk about Gospel values, and inculturation is trying to put the cultural values and your faith values together.

Why did the movement to build the local Church slow down?

Take a look at the literature -- theological journals talk about the local Church very commonly. It's only Rome that is insisting on "particular Church" and other terms. That cardinal from the Roman curia I wrote about in the book, telling us at the 1998 Synod (for Asia), "Let's talk about the 'Church in' not 'Church of' Asia" -- that's all part of this attempt to fight it.

Why does Rome prefer "Church in Asia"?

If you just say "Church in," then its part of a power structure. You are just a small part, whereas "of" means there is more independence. That's why I insist on using "local Church." The bishops of Asia used that term in their 1974 Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences plenary assembly. Even then, the bishops said the Church in Asia must not only be geographically "in Asia," but speak with an Asian voice, act in Asian ways so we can be authentic Asian Christians.

But during the Asian Synod, that cardinal objected to the term and proposed instead "Church in Asia." I don't oppose the term, but it is not wrong to say "Church of Asia" and "local Church." It is in consonance with what Vatican II said about the nature and mission of the Church.

Will this vision of "local Church" materialize without Rome's acceptance?

Well, let's not talk about Rome. Let's talk about what's happening on the ground, about renewal from the bottom. The big thing about changing clerical culture is to start mostly from the ground, with laypeople interacting with their priest. If it is taken from the ground, it is very emotive. That is why I make much of the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs). If what happens in the BEC takes place also at the top, this whole idea of participation, we can have a genuine community of disciples.

What are the key elements for this to succeed?

Anthropologists are the first ones to say culture change is not going to be easy because it impacts the values of people. You cannot change values overnight. The more you talk about it the better.

How do BECs promote the local Church?

In BECs we stress discernment. Let the people discern and realize what the values are and what changes are taking place. We stress shared faith communities.

Who will lead that discernment?

Cultural village philosophers: the people.

People have complained about priests blocking BECs.

Priests are the biggest obstacle. That's why we start with the philosophy of change. My own experience in Bukidnon is an example. I wanted to start BECs. I had 30 priests, all Jesuits, and only a few of them -- four or five young ones -- were open to it. So with the five, we went ahead and developed this. Only little by little, when the others began to see what was happening, did they take an interest. When I left in 1983, out of 35 parishes 33 were fully in line with the BEC. Lay leaders and priests must understand and accept what change is going to take place.

What examples of discernment and people's participation do you give in your book?

There was a layman who talked about ideology. At a recollection I asked why Marxist ideology seemed more attractive than Christianity. One of them said the Marxist ideology and methods were clear, but as Christians we just have to be able to walk in darkness and discern what the Gospel tells us to do.

I was flabbergasted, because this was a man with not even a high-school education, and an indigenous person at that.

I had also written a pastoral letter saying it was not right for Christians to participate in the referendums that (Ferdinand) Marcos had scheduled to show that people supported his regime. These mocked their dignity as a people. I wrote that boycotting the referendums was the most moral action to take.

But when families got together to discern my letter, I was surprised they decided the husband would boycott the referendums and the wife would vote. The family is very much part of the Filipino culture. The father could have gone to jail, but someone has to take care of the children. So it is also out of responsibility that they decided to do this, with their culture meeting what the faith says.

When you see this happening, you begin to ask yourself whether we can have this in the whole Church -- thoughtful people making responsible decisions. Isn't that what participatory Church is all about?

It seems obvious. How come it has to be pointed out?

I think it's about power. That's why I criticized clerical power in the book. I mentioned in the book that for some clerics, it's not so much about unity but uniformity. We tend to emphasize doing the same thing, but we can have unity in diversity.

You say this book is a summary of your episcopacy, but is it more than that?

Even if I talked about my experiences in Malaybalay and Bontoc-Lagawe, readers have said they recognize that I am talking about the whole Church in Mindanao (southern Philippine region). I also discussed in the book the symbiosis between Church and state. The BECs are not only aiming for change in the Church, but also in wider society.

What is the impact of poverty on BECs?

It's easier to build BECs in poor communities. It's very hard in cities, because some people don't care, but also because people are more cosmopolitan.

A BEC works better in the rural set up, where people still have a sense of community, gathering around the village chapel, and nobody is a stranger to anybody. That's one of the objections of some priests about getting this started in cities, but I say that's even more reason to get it going there.

Use your imagination to get people together. A BEC has to be tied in with the parish, with the diocese, with the local Church. It should not be apart like a ghetto (or) it becomes a sect. That's why I also point out its difference from voluntary organizations and from mandated organizations. BECs are non-selective, unlike the Knights of Columbus and other groups. BECs accept people who are baptized.

When you started as a priest, did you imagine you would envision such a Church?

No, I didn't. We were trained in the old Church, with Latin and so on. Then Vatican II came and it was revolutionary.

Do you anticipate the movement on the ground will weather resistance from the hierarchy?

It depends on the direction the Church takes. I'm hopeful for the Philippine Church, because in PCP II (Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, 1991) at least the Church already said this is what we want to be. It takes a long time, bishops have to learn. People talk about differences between conservatives and liberals, but I say that's not our problem.

Our problem is between close-minded conservatives and close-minded liberals. They have all the answers. That's why when you talk about the participatory Church, you have to make much about the learning Church. That's the problem of bishops. They always think they are going to teach, and are not looking at the other side, the learning part.

In writing this book, were you mindful of the shortage of priests?

I faced the question: Why do you call it ecclesial when to be ecclesial you have to have the Eucharist? BECs don't have the Eucharist. The Church teaches about the centrality of the Eucharist, but if it cannot provide a priest for this, it might come to relaxing the rule on celibacy. What I point out here is the contradiction of the Church. If you are the one who talks about that centrality of the Eucharist, and you are the one who engineers it so that people don't have the Eucharist, you are contradicting yourself. We make it more important that the celibacy rule is followed even if people are deprived of the Eucharist. It was the Church who imposed that celibacy rule.

What other points in the book do you expect will draw a reaction?

The point I brought up about this whole canon law on consultative-deliberative votes of bishops. That's precisely what's wrong with the Church, and we haven't faced up to that thing of power in the Church. I'm raising the question of participation in the Church. I'm telling the Church you are not respecting human dignity, and I criticize a consultative-deliberative vote because where it concerns the life of the community, the people have a right to have a say. Even in a democracy, people are consulted, but by stressing this law, the Church is emphasizing power.

What exactly do you oppose in this law?

In consulting, I may ask your ideas, but already from the beginning my mind is made up. That consultative process is a farce. For example, in synods the documents are already written up, or there is a consultation, but it is only the Pope who writes the final statement. He could do that without consulting.

Well, it all hangs together. There is a lot there in the concept of participatory Church -- there is power, there is inculturation. That's why the "local Church" is a very threatening concept for the hierarchy.

DATES OF ORDINATIONS SET

2009-09-01T16:49:00.000-07:00

Dates of the Ordinations of Deacons Allen Basilio and Caster Gonsadan have been announced already. Deacon Allen will be ordained on 23 September 2009 at the Sta. Rita Cathedral in Bontoc, Mountain Province. Deacon Caster's will be at the Our Lady of Visitation Church, Alfonso-Lista, Ifugao on 25 September 2009.
Deacon Allen grew up in Buguias, Benguet byt his mother is a native of Bayyo, Bontoc. Deacon Caster's parents are from Barlig but migrated to lowland Alfonso-Lista where their children, including Deacon Caster, were born and grew up.
As of this moment, preparations are undergoing for these big celebrations. The two deacons are on their silent retreat to get them ready spiritually. Meanwhile, donations in-cash or in-kind are being accepted for these two Fathers-to-be.

NEW ASSIGNMENTS

2009-09-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

Bishop Rudy Beltran has announced some new assignments for priests and deacons. They are as follows:

Fr. John Habawel is the new Rector of Bontoc Catholic Mission. He is also the Oeconomus of the Vicariate.
Fr. Marcial LLoyd Castaneda is on study-leave. He is currently in Italy, learning the Italian language in preparation for his further studies in liturgy at the St. Anselmum.
Fr. Vincent Sagandoy is also preparing for his further studies in Canon Law at the Louvain University in Belgium. He is temporarily assigned in San Pablo Seminary in Baguio as spiritual director.
Fr. Noel Bantiyan is the new Rector of Sadanga Catholic Mission. Helping him is Deacon Ricky Samonte.
Fr. Manny Samonte is the Rector of Teng-ab Pastoral Complex while he is undergoing some medical procedures. Meanwhile, Deacon Denden Eddoba is assigned in Hingyon Catholic Mission to assist there in the absence of Fr. Manny.
Deacon Caster Gonsadan is assigned in Banaue Catholic Mission. He is also the new director of the Youth Ministry.
Deacon Allen Basilio is the Prefect of Seminarians of the St. Peter Orientation Seminary. He is also the Vice-Chancellor of the Vicariate.
Fr. Bento Tamang is still the assistant Rector of Bontoc Catholic Mission. He is the Rector of St. Peter Seminary, and director of Vocations.
All these assignments, according to Bishop Rudy, are temporary until new assignments are announced during the presbyteral ordinations of our deacons.