My Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

(Where Our Lord Jesus Christ was Born)

(The site of the Crucifixion and Death of our Lord Jesus Christ)

(The spot where Christ our Lord was laid when he was brought down from the Cross)

(The Lord's Tomb- where He was buried and where He rose again)

I have visited shrines of apparitions of Our Mother Mary and saw birthplaces, uncorrupted bodies and tombs of Saints as well as Churches of great significance in different countries but something made me crave for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. At the back of my mind, all of my other pilgrimages would not be complete if I will not be able to see where Our Lord Jesus Christ was born, where He embarked on his ministry and made miracles and where he suffered, died and resurrected. I first planned to go to Holy Land in 2006, when a group of student priests went on a pilgrimage there. Unfortunately, I could not go out of Italy at that time because my permit to stay was not yet renewed. On December of the same year, I wanted to go and spend Christmas in Betlehem but I was discouraged by my friends because of Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah at that time. After two failed tries, my dream was realized as I joined the other Ilocano Priests studying in Rome on a pilgrimage. It was a perfect time for a pilgrimage- a Holy Week in the Holy Land is an experience of a lifetime. However, as the day of our departure fast approached, we were filled with anxiety upon hearing from those who have been there about how hard it is to come in and out of Israel (the removal of things from check in baggages for inspection and the interrogation by at least three immigration officers etc.). We were also afraid because of the recent killing of 9 Jewish seminarians by their Arab driver a week before our flight. Archbishop Yllana, the Apostolic Nuncio to Pakistan who happened to be in our residence days before our flight told us that if we keep on allowing fear to engulf ourselves, we will never be able to visit the Holy Land. Here is the rest of our itinerary:

Day 1 (March 15): Arrival, Visit to Notre Dame Chapel (Click here)

Day 2 (March 16) Palm Sunday in Jerusalem: We concelebrated with the Most Rev. Antonio Franco, DD former Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines and current Apostolic Nuncio to Israel for the 9 am Palm Sunday Mass at the Notre Dame Chapel in Jerusalem. We joined the Palm Sunday procession from Bethpage near Mount of Olives to Jerusalem (following the original route of our Lord). Along the way, we met the healing priest Fr. Fernando Suarez who invited us to join his pilgrim group and stay in their hotel free of charge. We already experienced the grace of God in our second day in the Holy Land. (Click here)

Day 3 (March 17)- Caesarea, Haifa, Nazareth, Cana: We visited the ancient port of Caesarea and the Church of Stella Maris in Haifa. We concelebrated mass with Fr. Suarez at the Church of Annunciation (the site where the Angel Gabriel told Mary about God’s plan) in Nazareth. Pilgrims who are celebrating their wedding anniversary renewed their vows at the Church of Cana where Jesus turned water into wine during a wedding feast. (Click here )

Day 4 (March 18)- Sea of Galilee, Mt. Beatitudes, Caphernaum, Tabgha and Jordan River: We crossed the Sea of Galilee (where Jesus walked on the water) on a boat captained by a Messianic Jew (Jewish Christian). We concelebrated mass in Mt. Beatitudes (where the Lord preached theBeatitudes). We visited the town of Jesus in Caphernaum and saw the ruins of Peter’s house. We also visited the Tabgha church where the multiplication of loaves took place. Lastly, we visited the Jordan River (where Christ was baptized). Click here

Day 5 (March 19)- Mt. Tabor, Jaffa: We attended mass in the Transfiguration Church in Mt. Tabor (place of Transfiguration). We also visited St. Peter’s Church in Jaffa. (Click here )

Day 6 (March 20)- Abu Gosh: We went to a Retreat House in Abu Gosh (between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem). We concelebrated the Mass of the Last Supper and we gave a retreat to the El Shaddai members from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa. (Click here)

Day 7 (March 21)- Good Friday in Jerusalem: After giving talks on the seven last word, we went back to Jerusalem and did the Via Crucis. Inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, we paid homage to the place where Christ was crucified, the stone where he was laid after he was taken from the cross, and the tomb where he was laid to rest and where He resurrected on the third day. (Click here )

Day 8 (March 22) Jericho, Dead Sea, Easter Vigil in Jerusalem: We visited the spot where the house of Zaccheus once stood as well as the sycamore tree purported to be the tree Zaccheus climbed to see Lord. We also went to the Mount of Temptation where Christ was tempted by the devil and where the the Qarantal Monastery is located. After lunch, we proceeded to the Dead See. In the evening we concelebrated the Easter Vigil Mass. (Click here )

Day 9 (March 23) Chapel of the Ascension, Church of Gethsemani, Wailing Wall: We visited and prayed at the small chapel where Christ Ascended into Heaven and the Church of Gethsemani where Christ spent his agony before he was arrested. The olive trees (thousands years old) are still there. We joined our Jewish brethren in praying at the “wailing wall” late in the afternoon. (Click here)

Day 10 (March 24) Ein Kerem, Bethany, Pater Noster and Betlehem: We were fortunate to have Sr. Aurora, SPC as our guide to the Arab Controlled parts of the Holy Land. We first visited and prayed at the Visitation Church (where the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth took place) and the Church of St. John (where John the Baptist was born) in Ein Kerem. We proceeded to Bethany where we visited the tomb of Lazarus and the Church of Martha and Mary (where their house used to stand). We also visited the Pater Noster Church in Mt. of Olives (where the Lord taught his disciples the Pater Noster). We sang the Our Father in Tagalog and Ilocano. In the afternoon, we went to Betlehem where we visited the Milk Chapel (where Mary nursed baby Jesus before they fled to Egypt), the Basilica of the Nativity (where Christ our Lord was born), and the Shepherds’ Field (where the angel appeared to the Shepherds).Click here

Day 11 (March 25) St. Peter’s Church in Galicantu, The Last Supper Room (Cenaculum), The Church of Dormision: On our Last Day, we visited the Church of Galicantu (where Peter felt remorse on his denial of the Lord upon hearing the cock crow), the Last Supper Room (where the Lord instituted the Eucharist), and the Dormision Church (where Mary went into her eternal sleep). Click here

I wish that every priest will be able to visit the Holy Land. Visiting the place where it all happened helps a lot in understanding the context of the Gospels.

Truth has its own way of manifesting itself

My father used to tell me as a kid that truth can never be hidden because those who hide it know about it. It must have been providential that I chose the Gospel passage “I consecrate myself for their sakes now that they may be consecrated in truth (Jn. 17:19)” as the theme for my ordination to the priesthood. These words have seemingly permeated my innermost being because in the performance of my ministry, I made it a sort of conviction to involve myself on issues that call for transparency, honesty and accountability- the pillars of truth. In such undertaking, I have noticed that it is not an easy task to unravel the truth. There are instances when the truth is concealed in order to hide one’s wrongdoing. There are instances when even the obvious cannot be perceived by people who are unwilling to be bearers of truth. There are instances when the truth is hindered by people who play blind so as not to tarnish other’s reputation. And worst, there are times when people get killed for being mouthpiece of the truth. In the midst of such attempts to obscure the truth, I have noticed that the truth has its own way of manifesting itself. An example in recent memory is when the erstwhile champion of truth and transparency in public service Senator Joker Arroyo tried to point out bad faith on Jun Lozada’s part because he talked to other senators prior to his coming out in the open on his knowledge about the anomalies on the ZTE deal. Lozada proved him wrong by admitting that he talked even to his wife.

In the pursuit for truth, one should have patience and faith. No amount of threat, alibis, attempts to cover up and legal eloquence can conceal the truth. My recent endeavour in pursuit for truth has proven this all the more- with prayerful disposition, proof for truth comes out even as there are efforts to hinder it. No matter how uncertain the odds are, when the truth comes out it will shed light to what is obscure, both rendered and per se.

Through God’s grace, truth manifests itself and it should never be compromised by those who grasp it.

Fr. Robert, please don’t play into Malacañang’s hands…

I am saddened that Fr. Robert Reyes, a colleague not only in the priesthood but also on social issues, criticized the bishops by saying over national tv that the CBCP toned down its statement on the ZTE scam because the bishops fear that donations will stop coming. In doing so, the touted running priest has unwittingly played into the liking of Malacañang. A Church divided will surely be a cause for rejoicing for them. I moderate my words, lest I might aggravate the effect which Malacanang would be so pleased to see, as a fellow priest reminded me that criticizing Fr. Robert will only make them all the more happy.

Hence, this is just a wake up call from a lowly “probinsyanong pari” to a flamboyant priest: Fr. Robert, please do not play into Malacañang’s hands by sowing intrigue and division. The enemy is not the CBCP. While you are free to say what you want to say, you cannot drag people into saying what you want them to say.

As an individual, I join my voice to the clamour for Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s resignation but I do not impose it upon others. I respect the CBCP exhortation to “pray together, reason together, decide together, act together," which was also criticized and belittled by the Philippine Daily Inquirer on its Feb. 15, 2008 editorial which seems to have been written by a priest. The way I understood it, the CBCP cannot as of yet call for Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s resignation because it still has to discern the truth as it unfolds based from credible witnesses and evidences. As a canon lawyer, I must stress that the CBCP is a collegial body which does not issue pastoral statements based on the whims and caprices neither of a priest, a bishop nor a group of bishops.

This might be it…

The damaging testimony of Rodolfo Noel Lozada, Jr. on the ZTE mess that has tainted the already besmirched regime of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo might just ignite the swelling of stronger clamour for her to resign. Although the testimony of Lozada did not, in anyway, directly implicate GMA on the ZTE scam, logic makes it obvious that she is involved through her husband. Malacanang’s lieutenants were quick to say that Lozada’s testimony did not incriminate the First Gentleman, but again, logic would tell us that Abalos’ involvement in this hullabaloo could not be without the blessings of the powers that be. On the other hand, the senators should go beyond grandstanding (some senators appear to be investigating in aid, not of legislation but of their 2010 ulterior motives). Sad to say, nothing has ever happened in senate investigations of anomalies like this except that it has effectively ensured the said senators’ selfish agenda. Cases should be filed in courts and laws should be legislated to compel transparency in similar transactions.

Of Political Vendetta and Sour Graping

The recent event at the Philippine House of Representatives showcased dirty Philippine politics at its best. Speaker De Venecia was ousted as a consequence of his son’s expose on the ZTE broadband deal. Though the Arroyos in Congress deny it , the machination is pure and blatant political vendetta. Pushed against the wall, the trapo in De Venecia suddenly tried to mutate into a crusader against graft and corruption stressing on his moral revolution vision, implying that Arroyo is corrupt and that he knew about the cheating in the 2004 presidential election. He griped about having helped President Arroyo in her political career and bragged that he stood by her amidst all the anomalies that besmirched her Presidencyl. He re acted like a sour graping child. His wife was also shown on tv saying that she knows also about the cheating in 2004. The thing is, why are they only speaking now when those issues have died down? Such actuation would confirm that pure intention is rarity and ulterior motive abound ln Philippine politics.

The only good thing that I see in this event is that it paved the way for a new leadership. I hope that the new leader will be better than De Venecia. On the other hand, let us keep our fingers crossed that De Venecia and his wife are really serious in exposing everything they know and substantiate their accusations so as to spark a real strong clamour for the ouster of President Arroyo.

10th Anniversary

(My Ordination Logo)

Today is the 10^th Anniversary of my Sacerdotal Ordination. I celebrated the Mass in joyful thanksgiving to God for the gift of Vocation at the Mother of Mercy Grotto beneath St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. My friends Fr. Gregory Gaston and Fr. Tony Ricarte concelebrated with me. I am sharing with you my mother’s speech after my ordination (my father died two years before I was ordained):

“My Only Son- Now A Priest”

Your Excellencies- Bishop Miguel Purugganan and Co-Adjutor Bishop Sergio Utleg, Rev. Monsignori, Rev. Fathers, Beloved Friends and Relatives, Good Morning.

Where should I begin…. I do not know how to start for I have diverse feelings as I stand before you this morning- a feeling of happiness and a feeling of pensiveness. On one hand, I am happy and full of eagerness because at long last, my son’s cherished dream of reaching the goal for which he has been called has been realized. On the other hand, I should say that contrasting this feeling of gladness is a lingering anxiety due to the conspicuous absence of my late husband on this momentous event in the life of our only son.

Twenty-seven years ago, my late husband and I were both very happy and filled with enthusiasm when I gave birth to a very healthy baby boy- our second child. Our old folks were then very exuberant- arguing among themselves whom the baby boy would be like. The first thing we did was to give him a name- we got his name from the calendar which was then customary at that time- interestingly, we gave him the name of a great Pope who became a saint- St. Gregory VII. Little did we know, he is going to live up literally closer to his name- Gregorio, which also comes from the Latin word grex- which means flock. As a priest, he will be tending and guiding a flock- the Lord’s flock.

Grevy, as he is fondly called, was brought up in an atmosphere wherein he was made aware of God’s presence and love as we opened his eyes into our faith. This, for us, is our greatest achievement as his parents. He grew up like any other normal boy- playful, active and full of excitement. At such an early age we already noticed in him the earlier manifestations of the seed of vocation. I do not know if Fr. Grevy could still remember- when he was barely five years old, there is one instance which has literally manifested such an inclination. As some of you could recall, my late Mother-in-law was then the one in-charge of the maintenance of the statues of santos and santas in this Church. There was a time when she brought home the garments of those statues for laundry. Little Grevy got a hand on one of them- a white one, and fitted it into himself like a small cassock. Then, he came out running- trying to steal everyone’s attention by saying “innadda bi- Fr. Uanan baddi nga(look at me I am little Fr. Uanan)- obviously inferring himself to his uncle, “Fr. Uanan dakal”- Fr. Pacoy. At that time, also another relative, his first cousin- Fr. Edwin Ramirez was still a seminarian.

What we have noticed were confirmed when, upon graduation from elementary, he intimated unto us that he wanted to study in the minor seminary- San Jacinto Seminary in Tuguegarao. He asked us something which we could not, in any way, refuse. Thus, my late husband and I agreed to send him in that school. Relatives and friends had mixed reactions upon learning that he is entering the seminary- some said that two priests in the clan is enough. Others were concerned that no one will propagate the family name, Grevy being the only son. Nevertheless, we allowed him to pursue what he desired. We did not, in any manner, force him into it. After all, who are we to force into him or to stand against- such a craving of the heart. After the minor seminary, he decided to continue. He entered the major seminary. Again, we did not stand on his way. Neither was his decision due to our propensity. It was his vocation, not ours. At that time we are sure about his conviction and we have accepted it. The least that we could do was to support and nurture his calling and pray for his success. This we did until he has reached his goal. We are, therefore, glad that he has reached this moment in his life.

My dear son, today marks the attainment of your aspiration. You are now standing by the altar of the Lord. We share in your blissfulness on this day. Allow me then to give you some parental advises before you are plunged into the real world. You must not be engrossed about having reached the top because the priesthood entails leading and serving at the same time. The priesthood is not a career where the success is gauged by fame, wealth and gain. Look at this moment as the beginning, not the fulfillment, for it is in how you will serve that your success will be seen. Moreover, you should not claim the success- for this belongs to God whom you shall serve all your life as his instrument. Be faithful to your vocation.

Finally, as I wind up my message I would like to take the opportunity to thank the bishop and the co-adjutor bishop with the clergy of the diocese of Ilagan in welcoming my son into their fold. I did not lost a son, rather we have gained a larger family in you. To Fr. Pacoy(Fr. Uanan “dakal”) who has untiringly supported Fr. Grevy(Fr. Uanan “baddi”- no longer small literally speaking). To the seminary formators here present, who have guided my son during his seminary formation and to those who have helped my son reach his goal in one way or another, my deepest gratitude. To all of you dear friends and relatives who have graced this most awaited moment in the life of my son, Thank You Very Much!

To my dear friends on the net, please pray for me....

They were just doing their job but…

The arrest of media people in the Failed Revolution at the Pen brought about so many questions that need to be answered. Is there a limit on journalists’ participation in such situation? Are they obstructionists or just doing their job? I surmise that in their zeal to fulfil their job they have unwittingly become human shields for the rebel soldiers. It was part of the perpetrators' game plan to have them stay inside the hotel. The military and the police were in a quandary as to how they could attack the “rebels” with the media people inside. They had to device a softer attack. There could have been bloodshed had the media people left the rebels and their civilian sympathizers led by an ageing political butterfly, an ageing street parliamentarian, an ageing bishop and a running priest. Trillanes and Lim could have been killed without them. Why would the perpetrators want the media to remain with them? Aside from media mileage, the perpetrators and any pundit knew the obvious- if media people have been hit by stray bullets, the international community will raise a howl and it will ignite a broader indignation from the people. Such scenario could have resulted into GMA’s downfall.

The media should follow a protocol in such situation (I do not know if there is an existing one) so as not to endanger their lives. Neither should they allow themselves to be used. They are intelligent people, they ought to know when they are being used or not.Their being handcuffed and arrested, though, were an overreaction by the police. The police could have just brought them for questioning at the Makati Police Headquarters instead of the long tedious ride to Bicutan. But of course, the authorities were sending a strong message to intimidate the seemingly partisan media (their threat now is “sue us and we will sue you too”). It is part of what they termed as “shock and awe” response.

There are no winners in this, only losers.