Author: Santuario de San Antonio Parish

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“God’s Mission and the Call to Missionary Discipleship” by Fr. Robert Manansala, OFM

Every Christian, by virtue of baptism, is a missionary or is called to be a missionary.

Today’s Gospel periscope contains some of the principles of missiology and the demands of missionary discipleship. From the beginning, it is very clear that Jesus’ mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God is intended for all peoples and for all places.

In the Book of Genesis, according to the Greek version (Septuagint), seventy-two is the number of people in the whole world (Gen 10). Therefore, the appointment of the seventy-two other disciples in the Gospel passage is symbolic.

Christ’s mission, which is God’s mission (“Missio Dei”), is as wide as the world. There will always be a need for more workers in this huge field of the mission. In fact, even for the produce that is already ripe for harvest, there are not enough workers.

The injunction to pray for more laborers is a summons to the reality that the mission is God’s. It is also a reminder that prayer is the first posture of the missionary. It is God who directs the mission and sends workers for the mission. The “abundance” or the “scarcity” of missionary laborers is linked to the disciples’ prayerful supplication before the Master of the harvest.

Although mission involves different forms of missionary activities and endeavors, prayer is the first missionary disposition. Mission is a divine-human cooperation and this is shown particularly in the missionary’s life and ministry grounded in God in prayer. Indeed, prayer is a necessary component of mission.

The shift in the metaphor from harvesters or laborers to “lambs among wolves” highlights the difficulties and dangers the disciples are expected to encounter along the missionary way. The disciples must expect what the Lord Jesus himself had experienced.

The Gospel also focuses on how the disciples must behave as they participate in God’s mission. They are to travel light and without attachments in any forms that can bog them down in their primary missionary pursuit. They must have a sense of urgency and should not allow any distractions by other concerns, including familial and social amenities. They must be heralds of God’s peace. They must accept with gratitude and joy any hospitality and acceptance accorded them. However, they must also be ready for any forms of rejection and be prepared to move to another place where the message of the God’s Kingdom may be welcomed.

The primary message of the missionary disciple is the Lord’s own message: “The Kingdom of God is at hand.” God’s Kingdom can be described as “the reign of God dynamically active in human history through Jesus Christ, the purpose of which is the redemption of His people from sin and from demonic powers, and the final establishment of the new heavens and the new earth” (Anthony Hoekema). This missionary message has to be proclaimed whether it is accepted or rejected.

Every Christian, by virtue of baptism, is a missionary or is called to be a missionary. In whatever forms of mission we find ourselves engaged in, it is important to keep in mind the above basic principles of doing mission and of missionary discipleship.

as published on July 7, 2013, Parish Bulletin
About Fr. Robert and his reflections

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“LUKE 9; 51-62” by Fr. Tasang

Discipleship therefore is about following Jesus, calling us to a life in common and in communion with him. The common ground of communion of life with Jesus is: detachment from material things so that one is open and ready, freedom from fear of death, and finally a rejection of any fetters from the past so that one will be open to the event, newness to the initiative and the unforeseen.

Luke 9:51 sets the stage and hints at what is coming. Two points are made; the determined intent of Jesus to go to Jerusalem and that the trip will conclude with his exaltation, the completion of divine purpose. The persistence of Jesus in the final events of his ministry is not to be equated with fate or some unavoidable social force, but a fulfilment of divine plan for the salvation of God’s people. Jesus’ single-mindedness in finishing his task paves the way for the later words to his disciples that they too must not let even plausible distractions deter them from persistent discipleship. Thus, in this verse which clearly foreshadows the mystery of Christ’ death, we have the key to the whole message. The evangelist goes on to consider the conditions necessary in order to be Christ’ disciples, not only just now in the journey to Jerusalem, but also in a definite way in the conduct of daily life.

1. The first condition is patience under trial. James and John thought they should have fire from heaven to deal with the hostile Samaritans. However, Jesus consistent with his teaching of the parables of the darnel, recommends his disciples to allow time
for conversion and development.

2. The second condition is common life with the master. As in all rabbinic schools, this is manifested by the material services which the disciples perform for the rabbi. Christ being an itinerant master above all, common life with him entails discomfort and poverty. The disciples may have to live in the open air, or content with whatever hospitality is offered, something that will train him to share the tragic destiny of the suffering servant.

3. A third condition of the disciple must be his missionary involvement, to which everything else is subordinated. Christ demands from his disciples the severance of ties necessary for proclaiming the kingdom and he brooks no delay.

4. Finally, the disciples must renounce all human ties. Following Christ then becomes really a state of life, of common life which parallels a family life. (Thierry Maertens – Jean Frisque)

Discipleship therefore is about following Jesus, calling us to a life in common and in communion with him. Christianity is not primarily about dogmas and doctrines, not about performing rites and rituals, and not about observing laws and ethical standards. It is about relationship with the person of Jesus. Following Jesus in a sense involves matter of home and social responsibilities. Homelessness is a condition that involves not only physical but social dislocation; one is no longer related to family of origin, but becomes a member of a community of wanderers. Rejecting the sacred obligations to bury one’s parent entails separation from the structures of biological family. Not saying goodbyes and not even looking back, vividly depicts the stark choices to be made. It confronts the family oriented social system that everything revolves around the family. Accommodation to social structures rather than separation from them, divided loyalties rather than single mindedness are most likely the characteristics of modern Christians. These recommendations of Christ seem harsh; it seems to be intended for those who vow to live in poverty and celibacy. Jesus does not intend these for certain states of life; this call is for all. The common ground of communion of life with Jesus is: detachment from material things so that one is open and ready, freedom from fear of death, and finally a rejection of any fetters from the past so that one will be open to the event, newness to the initiative and the unforeseen.

as published on June 30, 2013, Parish Bulletin

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Fiesta Week’s Children’s Day 2013

For Fiesta Week 2013, Family Life Mnistry and Youth of San Antonio sponsored Children’s Day held at the new Parish Center on June 9, 2013 from 3 pm to 5 pm. Thanks to all who made this year a big success!

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“Personal Queries” by Fr. Joel

“If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross every day and follow me. For anyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake, that man will save it.”

Let’s imagine Jesus being physically present m our contemporary times. Let’s imagine further himself posting a comment in His Facebook or Twitter account: ‘”Who do people say that I am?”. Then, reposting His comment to His close friends or to people who befriended Him in the social network: “But who do you say that I am?” These queries are very interesting because this concerns an individual who is so interested in others, and their impressions about him. Jesus is not afraid of what people will tell Him. He wants to know their impressions about Him. He is more interested in listening to their comments and not just clicking the ”LIKE” box in His network page.

One day when Jesus was praying alone in the presence of His disciples, He put this question to them, “Who do the crowds say I am?” (vs. 18.)This query clearly tells us that it is a product of Jesus’ discernment. The scene is in a very serious mode. The situation is ”He was praying alone.” It seemed that when He asked His disciples this question (whatever was in His mind), the consciousness or mindfulness of His disciples was being challenged. Jesus was developing in them the ability to use their “senses” in following Him. Perhaps, He is developing in them that “role-modelling” attitude. Be that as it may, the tone of Jesus was felt in the immediately following queries when they answered: “John the Baptist, others Elijah, and others one of the ancient prophets come back to life.” These are good people, role models in the practice of the faith, and perhaps, this is really what Jesus was driving at.

The query of Jesus however was reduced into a very personal question: “But you,” He said ”who do you say I am?” This response of Jesus is an invitation to know Him all the more. He wants his disciples to know him deeply – his aspirations, dreams, indepth impressions about him, about his life. When such query is reduced into a very personal level, this means that there is an established relationship that was already developed There is a very close encounter – heart to heart, mind to mind, soul to soul- that has transpired. It is like “I am close to you now. I am ready to listen to your affirmations and admonitions.” Imagine a husband and wife in their old age talking about their beautiful experiences in the past, over a cup of coffee. Imagine best friends who have not met for years reminiscing their past. Imagine a boyfriend and a girlfriend under a tree, holding hands together, praying that God will have a better future in store for them. It is through these instances that the encounter becomes personal and up close, that the spirit of knowing ”the other” leads to a closer tie, a deeper relationship.

Jesus is very interested in us. In the first place, we are the reason for His coming. We are the reason for His sacrifice, for His dying on the cross. And we are the reason for His coming again. Every now and then, He reminded His apostles about this. But some of them, if not most of them are not keen in knowing him more. That is why He would tell them” How slow you are in understanding all these things.” The Scripture says that ”they were able to realize many things only” after His Resurrection. Itwas only Peter who spoke up when Jesus queried them about Himself:” You are the Christ of God”. (vs 20) But He gave them strict orders not to tell anyone anything about this. Why? Because He doesn’t want them to do a “shortcut” on the very purpose of His coming. He doesn’t want them to miss the whole script of His life written through the will of the Father. Jesus wants us to learn every inch of His story. Thus, the reason why He is very interested in letting the apostles know ”Who He is” as the God, made-man. “The Son of Man” He said “is destined to suffer grievously, to be rejected by the elders, chief priests and scribes and to be put to death, and to be raised up on the third day.” This is the Paschal Mystery, the story of Jesus that He wants us to know and participate in. It is through this mystery that the wholeness of our being can experience the life of our Saviour. So, why should we complain if there are sufferings in our midst? Why should we lose hope when everything seems to be lifeless? Why should we worry when we are assured that there is more to this life of ours after death?

Then Jesus said, “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him
renounce himself and take up his cross every day and follow me. (vs 23) I guess these are clear conditions that Jesus is reminding us of. If we want to become his authentic followers then we have to find a way how we can abide by these conditions and thus develop meaningful lives.

Nowadays, the Roman Catholic Church in the country is bombarded with many issues regarding inconsistent faith practices of both the clergy and the faithful. These experiences are in no way different from the same issues thrown at the face of our Church. And for these, we should repeat time and again the words: “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross every day and follow me.”

“For anyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake, that man will save it.”

Have we done something good for our Church and have we defended our faith? Have we ever followed the advise of Jesus when faced with the same difficulties? Do we really know Jesus?

as published on June 23, 2013, Parish Bulletin

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SYA PGH SNK School End of Year Celebration by Sabrina Soriano

With the school year just ended, SYA planned and organized an end of year celebration for the PGH Silahis ng Kalusugan elementary and high school students. This was attended by the students, their parents, the teachers, and volunteers from church and SYA.

For most of us, one year is just a wink in our lives, something we take for granted, especially when we get bogged down by career, relationship and financial problems. For these students, one year in their lives means so much! With all of them with health / medical ailments, most of them congenital diseases, one year means another year where they have battled their conditions successfully. Being in the Silahis ng Kalusugan School in PGH allows them to have the support that they need – physically (in terms of the readily available medical services in the hospital) but most especially, emotionally through the support that they get from their classmates and the parents who are in the same position as themselves.

This party was a celebration of their lives – a year full of successes in being a survivor and still being able to study and attain achievements in school.

Congratulations are in order to Ryza, Cheycel and Josan, high school graduates, who are now embarking on a new journey in their lives. Good luck in whatever endeavor or course you undertake! You have all gone through so much already and have succeeded with smiles on your faces and a positive outlook in life. We know that with your strong hearts and minds, you will be winners in whatever goal you strive for.

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New Lectors, 2012

Commissioning rites of new lectors and re-commissioning of seasoned Lectors and Commentators was held Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the 6 pm mass, followed by our Ministry Christmas Party.

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June 2013 Induction and Blessing

Welcome our newest inducted members of the MSH! Bro. Marc, Bro. Jimmy and Bro. Eddie!

Induction and blessing of the Statues of Sacred Heart of Jesus were held on the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 7, 2013 at the 6 pm mass.

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“Your Faith Has Saved You” by Fr. Jesus

What the gospel wants to tell us is that Jesus loves the sinner’s humility and repentance, while he detests the pride of the self-righteous.

During this Year of Faith, which is well into its second half, it might have been a good spiritual exercise to take up, on Sundays, gospel passages in which faith is mentioned and rewarded. Many of the cures performed by Jesus were the result of an act of faith on the part of the sick persons. On the other hand, lack of faith “paralyzed” the Lord’s hands and heart, and prevented him from working miracles-as it happened in Nazareth at the start of his public ministry (Mt. 13:58). The woman in today’s gospel professed her faith in Jesus, not in words but with her actions; and Jesus rewarded her for that.

The Gospel of St. Luke is called by different names. Among others, the “Gospel of Mercy,” if only for the three parables found in chapter 15 about the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son. It is also called the “Gospel of Women,” because of the many passages dealing with Jesus’ respect and concern for women including the last two verses of today’s gospel about the women-disciples, and last Sunday’s gospel about tbe widow of Nain.

Thus, we can say that today’s passage is like a showcase of Luke’s gospel, as it combines both themes: Jesus’ mercy and his defense of the sinful woman against the accusing mutterings of Simon, the self-righteous Pharisee. A good number of gospel passages find fulfillment in this story. The passage about the Pharisee and the tax collector praying in the temple (Lk. 18: 10ft) and that of the Good Samaritan (Lk. 10:30ft) bear a striking similarity to today’s gospel. They all express Jesus’ predilection for the little ones, in fulfillment of the gospel’s oft-repeated paradox: “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 14:11).

By accepting the invitation of a Pharisee to have dinner with him in his house, Jesus was displaying great courage and also taking a great risk. The Pharisees were not precisely his best friends. On the contrary, they were always harassing him and scrutinizing his every word and action in order to have something to accuse him of. Simon was probably delighted when Jesus accepted his invitation, so he and his fellow-Pharisees could observe him closely. And sure enough, he soon began to vent his bias against Jesus: “If this man were a prophet … ” Even though Simon said that “to himself,” Jesus was able to read his mind-a proof that he indeed was a prophet, endowed with divine knowledge.

Jesus did not care much about etiquette, when truth and justice were at stake. He masterfully turned the tables on the self-righteous Pharisee and lectured him, right there in his own house, about his “sins of omission,” all the practical demands of hospitality which he had failed to accord Jesus– while extolling the gestures of affection accorded him by the “sinful” woman. Simon learned the hard way Jesus’ teaching: “Do not judge, that you may not be judged. Do not condemn, that you may not be condemned … s s (Luke 6:37).

Jesus explains the behavior of the sinful woman with the parable of the two debtors. Her acts of kindness and affection toward Jesus were an expression of gratitude, knowing that her sins, her many sins, had been forgiven or were about to be forgiven. She could sense forgiveness in Jesus’ welcoming attitude-just as she could sense rejection in Simon’s judgmental attitude.

We must not conclude from today’s gospel that Jesus loves sinners more than he does the just. Of course not. What the gospel wants to tell us is that Jesus loves the sinner’s humility and repentance, while he detests the pride of the self-righteous. That is a constant found in all four gospels: “1have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners” (Lk. 5:32).

as published in the Parish Bulletin, June 16, 2013

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“Compassion Leads to Action”, by Fr. Reu

What belongs to Jesus – his authority and triumph over death — he first shared with the lowly.

Both the first reading and the gospel present two almost similar stories of God’s action of bringing bring back to life a dead person. It is easy to rationalize these events especially in terms of acknowledging God’s power over death – the forces of evil and death are no match compared to the forces of good and life and that God never allows suffering and sorrow to overshadow compassion and comfort. Let us reflect on some of the details specifically on the gospel.

The weeping of the mother, a widow, for her only son is essentially for herself than for her son. While death brings sadness, it also frees the person from so many concerns and responsibilities in order to overcome the different challenges of life. The cultural setting of this widow and mother placed her in isolation, alienation and in the margins — or worst, as a non-existent person in the community because she has no husband or a son to protect and to give her identity. Her son’s death is hers too. In this context, to be physically dead is better than the suffering of emotional death or having physical life but bereft of meaning.

On the part of Jesus, this is not the first time he encounters people going to bury a dead person for his was a mobile office … he was always with people on the road. His compassion to this widowed mother flowed out from his knowledge of his Father who is compassionate and to which he invites his followers to be like him. Jesus acted upon what he saw and felt for this weeping mother by giving back life to her son so she may have life as well. It makes us think that this new life for the son is not for himself but for his powerless mother – God’s way of taking good care of God’s partner in nurturing and propagating the precious gift of life.

The prophetic side of Jesus’ action is his ability to use his authority and power to ensure that those considered insignificant are not relegated to the sideline or to the margins but are protected and that their dignity are preserved. What belongs to Jesus — his authority and triumph over death — he first shared with the lowly. This is truly the Gospel incarnate in the person of Jesus – the action of Jesus at Nain — God telling us to reject all forms of evil, of separation, alienation, marginalization and deprivation that leads to human suffering. Truly, it is Jesus’ compassion that leads to life-giving action.

as published in the Parish Bulletin, June 16, 2013

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Enthronement at Sta. Maria Velvetura Chapel, Pasay

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