Sixteen shrines were represented in very first Bicol shrines assembly held at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia on January 13. Present were 169 participants coming from the sixteen shrines in Bicol. There are 23 shrines in the Ecclesiastical Province of Caceres, which is composed of the dioceses in the region. Hosted by the Archdiocese of Caceres through the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, in the pilgrim city of Naga, the gathering was initiated by the Association of Catholic Shrines and Pilgrimages of the Philippines (ACSP)under the CBCP – Episcopal Commission on the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People. ACSP is the organization of minor basilicas, shrines and pilgrimage sites in the Philippines. It was founded in 1991 for the 1st World Congress of Shrines in Rome, 1992 by Bishop Gabriel Reyes, DD then Chairman of the Episcopal Commission of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI). Themed “From Devotion to New Evangelization: An Updating of Shrines in the New Evangelization of the Church,” the event aimed at gathering shrine rectors and lay ministries in the Bicol. ACSP has been visiting across the country in local assemblies held per Diocese or per Region for the same purpose. According to the organizers, the assembly “discussed updating of shrines on their role as part of the New Evangelization in the Church today, the creation of the lay shrine ministry for pilgrims in collaboration with the Shrine Rector, and the spirit of inclusivity in shrines in engaging pilgrims to become promoters.” Bro. Kendrick Ivan B. Panganiban, ACSP Lay Secretary and Research Chairman was the resource speaker. He is the author of the book “The Role of Shrines in view of the New Evangelization: Pope Francis Theology on Shrines and Pilgrimages applied in the Philippine Context.” Panganiban discussed the orientation on the association of Catholic shrines and pilgrimages of the Philippines and from devotion to new evangelization: an updating of shrines through the seven aspects of a shrine in the new evangelization. Msgr. Noe Badiola, Peñafrancia Basilica rector said that “It is an honor to host this first Bicol assembly of shrines. This is important so that we can best serve our pilgrims, our people and dioceses.” Shrine ministry delegates from the Archdiocese of Caceres represented the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia (Balatas, Naga); Archdiocesan Shrine & Parish of Our Lady of Fatima (Iriga City), Archdiocesan Shrine & Parish of St. Jude Thaddeus (Naga City), Archdiocesan Shrine & Parish of St. Joseph and Archdiocesan Shrine (San Jose, Camarines Sur); and Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (Tambo, Buhi). From the Diocese of Daet, delegates come from the St. Anthony of Padua Parish and Shrine (Mercedes, Camarines Norte); Diocesan Shrine of Jesus the Black Nazarene) & Parish of St. Lucy (Capalonga, Camarines Norte) and Santuario y Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria. The Diocese of Legazpi was represented by Our Lady of Salvation Parish and Diocesan Shrine (Joroan, Tiwi, Albay); St. Vincent Ferrer Parish and Diocesan Shrine (Tabaco, Albay) and St. Padre Pio Shrine Parish (Rawis, Legazpi City). The Diocese of Libmanan was represented by the Parish & Shrine of Our Lady of the Pillar (San Isidro, Libmanan). From the Diocese of Sorsogon, the delegates were from the Parish - Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima (Sorsogon City), Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel (Binisitahan Sur, Magallanes, Sorsogon) and St. Francis of Assisi Shrine – Parish (Donsol, Sorsogon). Meanwhile, the participants of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish-Diocesan Shrine of the Holy Cross (Batalay, Bato, Catanduanes) represented the Diocese of Virac. A Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Rolando Octavus J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD, at the Basilica Church with the rectors from the participating shrines as concelebrants. In his homily, Tirona said that shrines should create an environment where the pilgrims’ soul will be reverential, committed and joyful. Giving emphasis, he said that “shrines are not museums. Shrines are meant to be powerhouses where those who enter will go out stronger because they experienced God.” Participants were given Certificates of Membership to the ACSP. -Myrna S. Bermudo & Kirstie Kaye S. Tino

In his homily on the Feast of the Black Nazarene, Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona gave three important aspects that should become part of one’s Christian life. “We have this big devotion to the image of Jesus, the Black Nazarene where the Filipinos’ capacity to endure suffering and strong faith to carry one’s hardship in life is displayed, “ Archbishop Tirona said.  “It is easy  to carry our problem. But we also want to sanctify the hardships we are experiencing in life by offering them to God. Thus, it is necessary that we have a clear understanding of the spirituality of our devotion to Jesus Nazareno.” “God is always present in our lives, in our society and in our world,” the Archbishop assured. “This is the first aspect:  Jesus as our Savior implies  that God is always with us. He is present every second, every minute, every hour, every day in our life.” He explained that the name Emmanuel means God-is-with-us and that there is no moment that God is absent in our life. Jesus went around helping those in need especially the poor. Tirona added, “Jesus went around doing good. So beautiful! He went everywhere, he heals, he gives new beginnings. He enlighthens the hearts of people because of his teachings. He let them feel that salvation has come. Indeed, in God’s presence, we can see the saving power of Jesus.” Continuing his homily to a large crowd gathered at Plaza Quezon, Naga City, Tirona said that, “Jesus Nazareno’s presence is one full of love and sacrifice. This is the meaning of Jesus Nazareno. He came not just to be the presence of God. Jesus came to be the presence of God’s love to all of us.” Quoting the gospel according to John 3:16 he said: “ God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. And in John 15:13 it is written that ‘there is no greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”  Archbishop Tirona further said that Jesus Nazareno is telling us that God cares for us, deeply loves us and that God is attentive to our needs and worries. God wants to help us in our life. All because God is love.  This is the second aspect, he explained. Saying that Jesus Nazareno is an image of Christ as Savior, Archbishop added that the saving act of Jesus Christ gave us the truth that death was defeated because Jesus rose again. “He won over death and darkness because He died out of love and love can never die,” he said. “ Jesus’ resurrection is a powerful message of hope. His suffering, death and resurrection is a strong assurance that whatever we are going through, we should not be discouraged nor lose hope.” With strong emphasis, Tirona said, “Now at this very moment, He will give you the strength of the spirit so that you can rise up to carry on and move on. Let us show that we are strong, faithful Christians, that we do not grow weary and will be ready to face any harsh reality.” ‘At times, it is in our pain, in our sorrow and in our difficulties that we see a glimmer of hope and a new beginning and  healing. This is what  Jesus is telling us. Life is not easy. It is hard. But we should not give up. We should show that we, as Christians, as Catholics,  through our faith in Jesus Christ, will move forward. We will live. We will do good things. That amid the hardship we are  experiencing, we know that there is hope and a new dawn will come,” Tirona exhorted. Pointing to the image of Jesus the Black Nazarene,  Archbishop said in conclusion, “Let us look at the image of Jesus of Nazareth.  He is the image of God’s presence saying, ‘Do not be afraid.  I will be with you until  the end of time”.  Let us find consolation in those powerful words of Jesus and believe it. He will be with us until the end of time. He will help us to carry whatever we are going through.  He also wants us to live a life full of hope.  Because God is a God of love.” The Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Archbishop was held at the Plaza Quezon on January 9 at 5:00PM. It was preceded by a series of Masses held ‪at 6:00 AM‬, ‪9:00 AM‬, ‪12:00‬ NN, ‪3:00PM‬  at the same venue. After the Mass, a penitential foot procession bringing the image of the Black Nazarene to Tabuco Church followed. The event  was  hosted by the Holy Cross Parish in Tabuco, Naga City, headed by Fr. Eugene Lubigan, parish priest. -Myrna S. Bermudo

Homilia ni Arzobispo Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD Misa sa Vigilia kan Solemnidad ni Santa María Inâ kan Diós 31 Diciembre 2023, 09:00 nin banggi Naga Metropolitan Cathedral Diós marhay na banggi saindo gabos, mga tugang. An sakong puso pano nin kaogmahan na mahiling kamo gabos kaiba an satong mga kapadian sa giraray sa pag-omaw sa Kagurangnan. Nadangog nindo sa pagpoon kan Simbang Gabi na si Virgen María an naggigiya sato sa pagpreparar para sa Pasko sa satong pagbaklay pasiring sa Belen. Sa ngonian, bako na sana an Mahal na Virgen an kaiba niato kundi an Sagrada Familia. Sa enot na aldaw kan Enero, sinecelebrar niato an Solemnidad ni María bilang Inâ kan Diós. Siring man pinapamibi niato an katoninongan para sa kinaban o World Day of Peace. Aram niato na sa ibang parte kan kinaban igwa nin giyera kun kaya mamibi kita para sa katoninongan. Mga tugang, an Mahal na Virgen, Inâ ni Jesus. Siya man an Inâ kan Simbahan. An pinaka-enot na miembro kan Simbahan iyo an Mahal na Virgen. Arog kan sarong Inâ sa Familia na tinutukduan asin Inaataman ni María an saiyang mga akì bako lang sa pagtalubo kan hawak kundi pati pagtalubo kan saindang buhay espiritual. Satong ma-aapreciar an pagigin Inâ nin Diós ni María kun mahihiling niato kun ano an pigririmpos niya sa saiyang puso. Nadangog niato sa evangelio na pigrimpos niya sa saiyang puso an mga bagay-bagay. “Ini gabos rinimpos ni María sa saiyang puso.” (Lc 2:51) Ano an laman kan puso kan Mahal na Virgen kun tano ta siya inapod kan Mahal na Diós para magin Inâ nin Diós? Para magin inâ nin Simbahan asin inâ niato gabos? She is your Mother and my Mother. Sabi ni Sta. Teresita Del Niño Jesus “She is more Mother than Queen.” Ano kaya an nasa puso kan Mahal na Virgen para kita man mamatean niato na si Jesus, satong Paratubos. Si Jesus satong tugang huli ta solamente si Jesus an magdadara sato sa kahadean nin Diós. An enot niatong mahihiling sa puso ni María, iyo an saiyang pagigin dayupot sa Diós. Intimacy with God. Siya panô kan pagkamoot sa Diós. An saiyang bilog na pagkatawo, idinolot niya sa Diós. Aram niya na an saiyang bilog na pagkatawo gracia nin Diós, balaog kan Diós. Kaya bilang pasasalamat sa balaog nin buhay asin sa gracia na Inâpudan  para magin Inâ nin Diós, uya si María, itinaas asin idinodolot an saiyang puso, pano nin pagkamoot sa Kagurangnan tang Diós. Bilang mga Cristiano, bilang mga Catolico, numero uno yan na kaipuhan na mahiling sa satong buhay: na kita dayupot sa Diós. An Diós Pagkamoot. Kaya gusto kan Diós na magsimbag kita sa Saiyang pagkamoot sa paagi kan pagkamoot Saiya. Kan hinapot si Jesus kun ano an pinakadakula na togon, ini an simbag niya: “Kamotan mo an Kagurangnan mong Diós sa bilog mong puso, bilog mong kalag, bilog mong isip. Ini an pinakadakula asin enot na Togon. An ikaduwa: Kamotan mo an saimong kapwa siring kan pagkamoot mo sa saimo man sana.” (Mt. 22:37-39) Sabi ni San Juan de la Cruz, sarong Carmelitang padi, “Sa katapusan kan satong buhay, sa pagtalikod ta sa mundong ini, maatubang kita sa Kagurangnan para husgaran. Sa sarong bagay lang kita huhusgaran o titimbangon: kun papano kita namoot digdi sa dagâ.” Mary was a woman deeply in love with God. Si María malodok na namoot sa Diós. Yan an enot na pinapagiromdom sato. Pagmata sa pagkaaga, dai masupog sabihon “O God, I love you. O God, I love you. Namomotan taka Kagurangnan! “Parte yan kan satong pagtubod na sasabihon niato asin mamateon niato: “O God, I love you. Namomotan taka Kagurangnan!” An ikaduwa na kaipuhan mahiling niato sa puso kan Mahal na Virgen iyo an saiyang pagigin maimbod na sorogoon. She is a faithful servant. A faithful Daughter. An tataramon na “faithful” hale yan sa tataramon na “fides” na an boot sabihon, tapat o maimbod. Nagtutubod ako saimo. Tapat ako saimo. Maimbod ako saimo. Sa mag-agom importante an pagigin tapat asin maimbod. Si María maimbod na akì kan Diós. Idinolot niya an saiyang buhay sa paggiya kan Diós. Dai siya naribaraw kan mga bagay-bagay na kinâbanon, kundi tulos-tulos na inatang niya an saiyang sadiri. Iyan an tanda kan sarong tawong tapat. Igwa siyang panahon na idolot an buhay para sa namomotan. Yan an Mahal na Virgen, an saiyang buhay, sarong buhay na dayupot asin sarong buhay na maimbod. Ini man mâwot kan Mahal na Virgen na kita magin mga dayupot asin maimbod na Catolico. An ikatolo mga tugang, sa puso kan Mahal na Virgen, iyo na siya mapakumbaba asin masinunod-sunod. Humble and obedient. An sarong tawo dai magigin masinunod-sunod kun mayo siya kan kapasidad na maghinanyog. Pighimate ni María an mga Tataramon nin Diós. Mary was a woman who listened to God. Kaya ngani siya nagin masinunod-sunod sa Mahal na Diós. Kan ipinahayag saiya kan Angel nin Diós na siya magigin Inâ nin Diós, totoo, naghapot siya “Papano mangyayari iyan?” (Lc 1:34). Alagad, dai siya nagduwa-duwa nagsabi: “Uya an oripon nin Kagurangnan. Mangyari sako siring sa saimong itinaram.” “Mangyari logod sako an kabòtan mo, Kagurangan Diós,” yan an pahayag ni María sa pagsunod sa Diós. Parati sinasabi ni Jesus sa Saiyang pagtukdo sa mga disipulos na “Kun kamo namomoot sako, ootobon nindo an sakong an sakong mga togon” (Jn. 14:15). It is not enough to say O God, I love you. O God, I am faithful. Kaipuhan ipahiling yan sa pag-otob kan kabotan nin Diós. Sa panahon ngonian mga tugang, minsan nalilingawan niato an mga ini. An Mahal na Virgen nagtotokdo sato na sa paagi kan pamibi, sa pagbisita sa Blessed Sacrament, natatabangan kita na magin buhay an satong pagtubod: magin dayupot sa Diós, magin maimbod asin magin masinunod-sunod Saiya. Huli ta “an gabos rinimpos ni María sa saiyang puso.” (Lc 2:51) Kada taon, kinakanta niato: “bagong taon ay magbagong buhay.” Ini man an sinasabi kan Mahal na Virgen, sa pagsabuhay niato kan tolong bagay na ini, magkaka-igwa kita nin bagong buhay para sa bagong taon. Tâwan niato nin espuerso na magsimbag kita sa giya asin inspirasyon na itinao ni Santa María para mamataean niato si Jesus bilang Paratubos na madara sato sa kahadean nin Diós. Sabi ni Jesus: Gusto nindo magtao nin kamurawayan sa Diós na sakong Ama? Gusto nindo na magbunga an saindong buhay bilang Cristiano, siring man maging mga disipulo ko? Magsunod kamo sako bilang sakong mga sorogoon. Ini an boòt sabihon kan satong pag-ako ki María bilang Inâ nin Diós. When we welcome Mary as the Mother of Jesus, we welcome Jesus. When we welcome Jesus in our lives, we welcome God the Father. An Misang ini dinodolot ko para kita gabos magsunod sa paarog kan Mahal na Virgen sa pagigin dayupot, maimbod asin pagigin masinunod-sunod sa Diós.

By Jason B. Neola A harmonious collaboration between the Archdiocese of Caceres, the Holy Cross Parish in Barangay Tabuco, and the Hijos de Nazareno Bicol Unit Association, alongside the Samahan para Birhen ng Kapayapaan at Mabuting Paglalakbay, is underway to mark the 35th year of the feast day of the Black Nazarene on January 9, 2024. The preparations commenced on December 31, 2023, when the revered image of the Black Nazarene was transported from Barangay Palsong in Bula town (Camarines Sur) to the Holy Cross Parish. Here, a solemn series of religious rites, including the Holy Rosary, Novena to the Black Nazarene, and the singing of perdon, unfolded at 3 o’clock in the afternoon. The sacred ambiance culminated in a 5:30 PM Holy Mass, a ritual set to extend until January 8, 2024. From the first day of the Novenario Masses on December 31 to the ninth day on January 8, designated priests will serve as mass presiders, and organizations have been assigned as mass offerors to enrich this sacred observance, weaving a tapestry of spiritual reverence. On January 6, 2024, at 1:30 PM, the Holy Cross Parish will host a special formation for new members of the Hijos de Nazareno. As the anticipation builds on January 8, a transcendent traslacion procession will commence at 6:30 PM, featuring replicas of the Black Nazarene owned by devoted parishioners and devotees, in various sizes, parading from the parish to the Plaza Quezon. The feast day on January 9, 2024, will be marked by a series of six fiesta masses at 6 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM. At 5 PM, a grand pontifical concelebrated mass, led by Most Rev. Rolando Tria Tirona, Archbishop of Caceres, will grace the Plaza Quezon. Following this poignant mass at 5 PM, a solemn penitential procession will unfold. Culminating the day’s spiritual odyssey, the final mass, beginning at 8 PM, will resonate at the Holy Cross Parish. This concluding celebration will witness the procession of the Black Nazarene image, bringing an ethereal closure to the spiritually enriching celebration.

By Myrna S. Bermudo Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD, celebrated Christmas Mass with persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau ofJail Management and Penology (BJMP) Naga Male Dormitory on December 25. Before the mass, Archbishop Tirona blest the new altar table and lectern at the chapel located at the dorm of BJMP Naga. The Maximilian Ministry, Commission on Prison Welfare of the Archdiocese of Caceres, spearheaded the celebration of the Eucharist on Christmas Day for PDLs at the various jail facilities in Camarines Sur. The ministry is the social action arm that renders pastoral services to PDLs. St. Maximilian Kolbe is the patron saint of the PDLs. “Guided by the principle of Restorative Justice, the Prison Ministry inspires institutions and communities inside and outside of prison facilities to support the restoration of those affected by crime and incarceration,” says the ministry on their social media account. BJMP Camarines Sur Provincial Jail at Tinangis, Pili; BJMP Iriga City; BJMP Tigaon and BJMP Naga are the locus and the focus of their pastoral activities. Fr. Jayson Gaite, the chairman of the Maximilian Ministry, said that “the focus of our activities is to provide for the spiritual needs of our brothers and sisters who are PDLs. Thus, we have pastoral services to our brothers and sisters deprived of liberty such as recollections, Sunday masses, prayer meetings, Holy Week activities and Misa De Aguinaldo masses. The mass on Christmas Day was the culmination of the Advent recollections and Aguinaldo Masses.” Misa de Aguinaldo sa Pueblo Esperanza at Naga City District Jail - Male Dorm were celebrated from December 16 to 24 with the following priests as celebrants: Fr. Christian Guran, Fr. Angel Lorenzo Dorosan, Fr. Jed Anthony Peña, Fr. Nilo Labra SJ, Fr. Mark Anthony Beria, Fr. Stephen Abuan SJ, Fr. Lino Labrador and Fr. Robert Exequiel Rivera SJ. On Christmas Day, masses were celebrated at various BJMPs. Fr. John Lino Labrador celebrated mass at BJMP Tigaon. Fr. Gaite presided over the Mass at Camarines Sur Provincial Jail and Penal Farm. Meanwhile, Fr. Rex Luis Hidalgo celebrated Mass at the BJMP Naga female dorm and at BJMP Iriga, Fr. Sanny Apin presided. Hygiene kit giving and feeding activities were also conducted. Fr. Gaite thanked the donors, prison ministry volunteers, the BJMP officers, personnel and the PDLs who were very cooperative and who continuously assist them in their pastoral services. He said that he has learned a lot from the prison ministry. He believes that Jesus is really present in the PDLs who inspire him as a priest. According to him, the biblical passage from Matthew 25:36 that says “I was in prison and you visited me” is being realized as he regularly visits the prison facilites. This time, Jesus present among the PDLs, is the One visiting him.

Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD, celebrated Christmas Mass with persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau ofJail Management and Penology (BJMP) Naga Male Dormitory on December 25. Before the mass, Archbishop Tirona blest the new altar table and lectern at the chapel located at the dorm of BJMP Naga. The Maximilian Ministry, Commission on Prison Welfare of the Archdiocese of Caceres, spearheaded the celebration of the Eucharist on Christmas Day for PDLs at the various jail facilities in Camarines Sur. The ministry is the social action arm that renders pastoral services to PDLs. St. Maximilian Kolbe is the patron saint of the PDLs.  “Guided by the principle of Restorative Justice, the Prison Ministry inspires institutions and communities inside and outside of prison facilities to support the restoration of those affected by crime and incarceration,” says the ministry on their social media account. BJMP Camarines Sur Provincial Jail at Tinangis, Pili; BJMP Iriga City;  BJMP Tigaon and BJMP Naga are the locus and the focus of their pastoral activities. Fr. Jayson Gaite, the chairman of the Maximilian Ministry, said that “the focus of our activities is to provide for the spiritual needs of our brothers and sisters who are PDLs. Thus, we have pastoral services  to our brothers and sisters deprived of liberty such as recollections, Sunday masses, prayer meetings, Holy Week activities and Misa De Aguinaldo masses. The mass on Christmas Day was the culmination of the Advent recollections and Aguinaldo Masses. “ Misa de Aguinaldo sa Pueblo Esperanza at Naga City District Jail - Male Dorm were celebrated from December 16 to 24 with the following priests as celebrants: Fr. Christian Guran, Fr. Angel Lorenzo Dorosan, Fr. Jed Anthony Peña, Fr. Nilo Labra SJ, Fr. Mark Anthony Beria, Fr. Stephen Abuan SJ, Fr. Lino Labrador and Fr. Robert Exequiel Rivera SJ. On Christmas Day, masses were celebrated at various BJMPs. Fr. John Lino Labrador celebrated mass at BJMP Tigaon. Fr. Gaite presided over the Mass at Camarines Sur Provincial Jail and Penal Farm. Meanwhile, Fr. Rex Luis Hidalgo celebrated Mass at the BJMP  Naga female dorm and at BJMP Iriga, Fr. Sanny Apin presided. Hygiene kit giving and feeding activities were also conducted. Fr. Gaite thanked the donors,  prison ministry volunteers, the BJMP officers, personnel and the PDLs who were very cooperative and  who continuously  assist them in their  pastoral services. He said that he has learned a lot from the prison ministry. He believes that Jesus is really present in the PDLs who inspire him as a priest. According to him,  the biblical passage from Matthew 25:36 that says “I was in prison and you visited me” is being realized as he regularly visits the prison facilites.  This time, Jesus present among the PDLs, is the One visiting him. By Myrna S. Bermudo

By Myrna S. Bermudo In a letter sent to the Caceres clergy, Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona enjoined the priests to encourage parishioners to set up Nativity scene or Belen in their homes and remind them of its significance. This year, the Universal Church celebrates the 800th anniversary of the first Nativity scene. “On the eve of Christmas in 1223, Saint Francis of Assisi staged a live nativity scene in a cave near Greccio, Italy. It was the beginning of the tradition of putting up a nativity scene or a Belen inside or outside churches and public and private places, “Tirona said in a letter issued December 14. “It reminds people of the Incarnation of our Lord to save us all. The Belen has been a powerful catechetical instrument for all these eight centuries,” the Bishop added. As the Misa de Aguinaldo starts, parols, Nativity scenes with empty crib are displayed inside parish churches, oratories and shrine. Some, which are inside the patio or church yard, are made of local materials prepared by various barangays and church organizations. The Caceres bishop further said that “The image of the Baby Jesus in the manger touches not only the hearts of children but also the hearts of adults. It brings joy and peace. I urge you and our faithful to pray for peace in the Holy Land and the whole world.” The image of the Infant Jesus is placed on the empty crib of the Nativity scene during the vigil mass of Christmas. Pope Francis, in an Apostolic letter called “Admirabile Signum,” explained the meaning and importance of the Nativity scene. He encouraged the family practice of setting up the Nativity scene days before Christmas. He said that work places, schools, hospitals, prisons and town plazas are venues where the Nativity scene can be displayed.

By Natalie Hazel P. Quimlat, MD In his message for this year’s Season of Advent and Christmas, Caceres Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona placed emphasis on celebrating Christmas this year in accordance with the recently concluded Synod on Synodality -one of communion, participation and mission. According to Tirona, this is what makes this year’s celebration “unique and full of meaning”. Being with His people “God out of His goodness willed to be in communion with us, concretely in time, in place, in history,” he said. Stories heard of God being with His people early on became a much more palpable experience when Jesus was born into this world. “The Son of God became man and became one of us in all things except sin,” the Caceres prelate added. God continued to be with His people through Jesus’ teachings, the many miracles Jesus performed and ultimately, when Jesus offered His life in love. Tirona further added, “There is no greater expression of communion than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Hence, Christmas is a time to celebrate God being in communion with His people. Called to participate in Joy Continuing with his message, the Caceres prelate further emphasized that a life lived with and for God is meant to be celebrated and lived in communion with others. “We are called to come together,” he said. “[We are called] to wonder at the birth of [the] Child Jesus.” The prelate then briefly recalled that the first to participate in joy at the birth of Jesus were the shepherds present at the manger. Thus, he added, “You and I: we as Church are continuously called to participate in singing [the] Gloria.” A Community filled with Love Shedding light on a crucial aspect of the recently concluded Synod on Synodality, Tirona further exhorted, “Jesus was sent for a mission, to bring the Good News of salvation. And, we participate in that mission: absorbing, proclaiming and embracing the mystery of this Child, born in Bethlehem, to express God’s love.” According to Tirona, ultimately, one is called to spread love through good deeds, charitable actions and through [expressions] of one’s selfless love for another. Tirona continued to exhort, “This is what Christmas is all about. It is a community event, a community experience, a community filled with love.” The Caceres prelate ended his message with these words, “May this season of Christmas inspire us once again -to love the Church, to serve the Church, and above all, [to be] a Church [that] proclaims the glory of God.”

By Dr. Ma. Asuncion P. Quimlat On December 8, 2024 the Parish of the Immaculate Conception will celebrate its 60th year foundation. Last December 7 and 8 during the Vispera Mass and Solemn Concelebrated Mass, the parish launched its One-Year Preparation. A simple rite at the start of the Mass was heralded by a procession of the 60th jubilee banner and the image of Our Lady of La Purisima. Before final blessing, Fr. Marcel Emmanuel DP Real, parish priest sung the Hymn to Inmaculada Concepcion which he himself composed. This year’s theme, Journeying Together as a Christian Community towards a Blessed 60th Parish Jubilee under the Patronage of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, expresses a desire to be a synodal parish. The clergy, lay leaders and parishioners will work together to make this vision a reality. In Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona’s homily during the Vispera Mass, he stressed the the role of Mary in our Christian Faith. He reminded the congregation that Mary is a woman of great faith, a faith of total surrender to God’s will, a faith that obeys and a faith that is steadfast and persevering. This faith proclaims the goodness of the Lord, he said. Daet Bishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, in his homily on December 8, stressed the undeniable battle between good and evil. “In an Age of Multiplicity of choices, Mary reminds us to be simple and humble. In an Age of Diversity, Our Lady is a model of Fidelity. In a time when power is in our hands and digits, Mary reminds us to trust in God more than anything else. Because of these, she can truly say: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,” he explained.

By Myrna Bermudo One hundred eighty (180) Pre-Cana facilitators or talk-givers on preparatory seminar for wedding from the seven dioceses of Bicol received upskilling from the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL) for Bicol Region headed by Fr. William Santiago of the Archdiocese of Caceres and the diocesan priest family and life coordinators from November 16-17 at the Legazpi City Convention Center. The two-day Bicol Regional Pre-Cana Facilitators Assembly on Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life (CPML) Seminar was hosted by the Diocese of Legazpi led by Family and Life Priest in-Charge Fr. Dave Ramoso, together with its officers and members. In his message, Fr. Ramoso shared that the aim of the assembly is to prepare the married couples (through Pre- Cana) and on how they can value the sanctity of marriage. “It is a region-wide assembly; thus, representatives came from Dioceses of Daet, Libmanan, Albay, Virac, Masbate, Sorsogon and the Archdiocese of Caceres. More than 70 lay talk-givers represented the Diocese of Legazpi as the seminar’s host. [In total], we expect 180 delegates to attend. Pre- Cana facilitators were trained on new approaches in giving seminars for young couples,” explained Fr. Ramoso. In his session, Lipa Archbishop Gilbert A. Garcera, DD, head of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conference (FABC) on Family and Life, Women, Laity, Youth and BEC, also a Bicolano and presently the Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL) discussed the Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life (CPML) based on the book which he authored. Fr. Ramoso emphasized, “Archbishop Garcera believes that a good formative preparation for marriage will help those who are preparing to commit themselves in the sacrament of matrimony.” Fr. William Santiago, ECFL Regional Priest Coordinator of the Archdiocese of Caceres, seconded that the assembly is essential because the Pre- Cana speakers are being prepared to assist those who marry. “Thank you, my fellow workers in the Family Life Ministry for coming. This is definitely something that the Pope would like to emphasize with the Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life: that we accompany those who are preparing for marriage and journey with them in their actual married life. The priest formation is long, yet the preparation for the bride and groom for the sacrament of marriage is very short. This reality inspires me to be more diligent in the Family-Life Ministry. May this assembly open new pathways for our ministry,” Fr. Santiago said in his opening statement. Sorsogon Bishop Jose Allan Dialogo, Bishop Coordinator for Southern Luzon Bicol presided over the Welcome Eucharistic Celebration, together with Archbishop Gilbert Garcera and nine priests from the Bicol dioceses. In his mass, he emphasized the pivotal role of Pre- Cana facilitators saying, “This wisdom rooted in love and understanding is the cornerstone of the Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life. It calls us to navigate the intricate tapestry of marital relationships with the discernment and grace bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit.” Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL) aids the CBCP commission to promote the transformation of Christian families into true “domestic Churches” or churches of the home as God intends them to become and upon which the future of Evangelization will depend in great part, periodically making the necessary recommendations to the Philippine Bishops for the achievement of this fundamental objective. (CBCP By-Laws # 17) On the first day, the regional assembly delegates were treated to a welcome dinner courtesy of the Diocese of Legazpi. The second day was spent on the actual general assembly, Eucharistic Adoration or Holy Hour led by Fr. Salvador Rojas, Priest Family Life Coordinator of the Diocese of Virac followed, “Family Matters” film viewing was held and an evening fellowship. A closing mass was presided over by Archbishop Garcera. In his homily, the ECFL Chairman thanked the Diocese of Legazpi for hosting the seminar, the Diocesan Directors of Family and Life and all those who came and supported the endeavor. He reflected on Synodality, Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life and the Word of God. Garcera shared three points or realisation from what transpired during the assembly: “First realization in view of Synodality is walking together. It is walking together as one coming from many parishes. We realized that we need other offices and movements like catechesis, social action, CFC, El Shaddai since we walked together as a pastoral team. We also realized, as a region that we need to exchange stories and resources. We also acknowledge that we are weak and we need Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia and guidance of the Holy Spirit.” “Where are we going? What is our direction? The answer must be clear and in view of the direction of the diocese, of the region, of the Philippine Church and of Holy Father’s view of Synodality. Wala nang kami-kami lang, lahat tayo ay sama- samang naglalakbay,” the ECFL chair expressed. “Our third reflection speaks on discernment of the Word of God. Listening. In Bicol we use the word “himate”. We, Bicolanos, use ear of the heart. A compassionate heart has the ability to listen. After listening it discerns because it is attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit,” Garcera concluded. A regional meeting of the Catholic Grandparents Association for Diocesan Couple Coordinators was held after the closing mass.

By Julma M. Narvadez On November 4, the Council of the Laity of Caceres (CLAC), composed of parish pastoral council coordinators, convened at the St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Naga City. The parish priest, Fr. Wilfred Almoneda, concurrently Vicar General of Archdiocese of Caceres, presided over the meeting. Sixty-one parishes from all vicariates were represented: St John the Evangelist Vicariate, 5 parishes; Our Lady of Peñafrancia, 5; Our Lady of La Porteria, 5; St. Anne, 3; St Paschal Baylon, 5; St. Joseph, 5; St. Raphael the Archangel, 3; St. Bartholomew, 5; Anthony of Padua, 5; St. Francis of Assisi, 2; Holy Cross, 4; Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 3; St. John the Baptist, 5; St. Claire, 5; St. Michael de Archangel, 1. With many of the participants new to their position, an orientation was given by the incumbent CLAC President, Blesilda Q. Arquesa. She presented the roles of the Parish Pastoral Council and the PPC Coordinators. The Vicar General also requested that they revisit their Parish Pastoral Plan. It was also agreed that pastoral planning will be discussed in the forthcoming meetings. According to Fr. Almoneda, the gathering was prompted by a series of activities. During the Clergy Peñafrancia Recollection on August 29, two upcoming events were identified: the launching of the tercentenary of the coronation of the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia and the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. Meetings were then held to discuss the preparation. On September 11, the Vicar General and Commission Heads held a preliminary meeting. In attendance were Fr. Pablo Carpio for the Lay Formation Institute; Fr. Glen Ruiz for Liturgy; Fr. Louie Occiano for CCCom; Fr. Marc Real for Caritas Caceres; Msgr. Noe Badiola, the Rector of the Peñafrancia Basilica, and the Parish Priests in Naga City, among whom are Fr. Domingo Florida of the Naga Cathedral, and Fr. Felipe Culvera of Our Lady of Peñafrancia Parish. Present also were the Oeconomous, Fr. Eugene Lubigan; the Chancellor, Fr. Darius Romualdo and the Rectors of the two seminaries, Fr. Joey Gonzaga and Fr. Francis Tordilla. The group met again on September 26 and on November 3. During these meetings, the need for parishes to have a three-year pastoral plan surfaced in view of significant celebrations starting with the tercentenary in 2024; the Great Jubilee in 2025 and the 75th year of Caceres as an Archdiocese. Meanwhile, Fr. Almoneda and the head of the Education Cluster, Fr. Wilmer Tria; Fr. Real and Fr. Emmanual Mojica, Coordinator of the Office of Basic Ecclesial Communities or Saradit na Kristyanong Komunidad, discussed the conduct of a seminar-workshop on Catholic Citizenship Education and Engagement (CCEE), in connection with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. The seminar-workshop was held on October 14. Parishes sent their PPC Chairpersons along with the Parish Ministry Heads on Education, Social Services and the Youth. Before the end of the seminar, the Vicar General called for the PPC Coordinators to discuss the resumption of CLAC activities. “The group was unanimous in having regular meetings,” Fr. Almoneda said. According to its manual, CLAC, established in 1984, has the following objectives: 1) to act as consultative body to the Archbishop of Caceres on the participation of the laity especially in the efforts for evangelization; 2) to implement the Pastoral Plan of Caceres, especially in whatever concerns the laity; and 3) to form and unite lay persons for an effective apostolate and community life in the Archdiocese both for the salvation of souls and the renewal of the temporal order.

By Grace Buendia and Sherwina Sibulo Our Lady of Peñafrancia Parish celebrated its 50th foundation anniversary on October 28 and 29. On October 30, 1973, Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine officially became a parish through then Archbishop of Caceres, Teopisto Alberto, Its first parish priest was Most Rev. Concordio Sarte, DD, the Auxiliary Bishop of Caceres. It was originally composed of the barrios of Peñafrancia, Liboton, Bagumbayan Norte, Calauag, Jacob Extension, San Felipe, Pacol, Carolina and Panicuason. Under the guidance of Bishop Sarte, the parish flourished as a center of worship, community engagement and spiritual growth. This year’s theme, “Magkairiba sa Dalan,” encapsulates more than physical movement ; it symbolizes the collective experiences of the parish spanning 50 years, characterized by shared life, faith and personal development. The two-day event features a series of activities through the collective effort and dedication of our Parish’ Pastoral Council, Barangay Pastoral Councils of Peñafrancia, Liboton and San Felipe, Area Pastoral Councils and respective ministries of religious movement, having grouped into color teams of Red, Yellow, Green and Blue. The first day was opened with a holy mass in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia. A colorful parade was done along the main streets of Peñafrancia and Liboton. A short program followed with the presentation of color yells, symbolic lighting of the torch, oath of sportsmanship and the color flag raising by the muses, team leaders and Father guardians at the Plaza de Cuvarrubias. The program was led into prayer by Fr. Joseph Abion, parochial vicar. As the crowd were enveloped with the cheer & ignited by the lighting of torch by Eileen Navarroza symbolizing the fervor of parishioners, with their heart set ablazed for firmer commitment and dedication as children of Ina. Ato San Juan took the stage for the Oath of Sportsmanship, followed by Fr. Felipe Culvera, parish priest, who gave his message, and Ning Labay, the Parish Pastoral Council coordinator declared the games open. The inter-color competition filled the spirit of camaraderie and unity among the parishioners, young and old alike. The color groups showed their enthusiasm imbibed with the spirit of sportsmanship. Food was prepared by each color group and shared by everyone. Different indoor and outdoor games were played by the millenials, middle-aged and seniors. Fr. Culvera; Fr. Danilo Tuason, resident priest; Fr. Ryan Oliva Fenis, school chaplain; and Fr. Abion participated as father guardians of each color group. Their presence added excitement to the morning activities. The cultural presentation, the most awaited part of the celebration, was done in the afternoon of October 28 at the parish hall. An inter-color contest showcased the different talents in singing, dancing through folk dance, interpretative dance, ballroom dancing, and trivia. The competing groups presented an Interpretative Dance of the song of Resuene Vibrante, followed by vocal solo. In the folk dance, the dancers showed intensive preparation as they executed difficult movements with graceful sway. The ballroom dance sports featured a mixture of music and contestants were greatly applauded as they showcased their splendid performance. The Pontifical mass marked the most important part of the foundation anniversary. It was officiated by the Most Rev. Rolando J. Tria Tirona , Archbishop of Caceres with priests from the parish and guest priests as concelebrants. A sumptuous dinner was offered by the parish to all. Awarding ceremonies and fellowship followed. A formal turn-over ceremony was done by the Yellow Team, outgoing defending champion , to this year’s over-all champion, the Red Team. Fr. Culvera expressed his joy as he thanked everyone for a very successful and meaningful 50th foundation anniversary. He wished that the momentous occasion gave inspiration for the deepening of faith, strengthening relationships as brothers and sisters in the Lord and continuing service in the parish. The different ministries and organizations in return assured the parish priest of their wholehearted support and dedication in all pastoral activities as they journey together.