Christ is King

This sunday is the last Sunday in the Liturgical year. Next Sunday will be the First Sunday in Advent. What is the significance of the last Sunday of the Liturgical year? This reminds us of Christ as the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. After our earthly strivings we have to recognize that we are finite and that we need Christ.

The Jews of Christ time made the mistake of believing that the Messiah would establish an earthly kingdom. But Christ is not of the earth and that this world is a past decaying world. How many times our Lord has admonished us to shun the world. Jesus said that if the world hated him it will also hate us.

The Photo on the right is the Christ the King Plaza. The image of Christ standing on the background is the early morning sun.

Jesus told Pilate that his Kingdom is not of this world, otherwise his followers would fight so that he would not be turned over to the Jews. But when Pilate asked if he was king, Jesus told him that he was born as such and that was his mission and destiny.

Archbishop Burke Celebrates the Mass of All Ages at the Colonade, St. Peter's Basilica

"There has been almost no coverage anywhere in the mainstream press about an extraordinary event that occurred yesterday morning in St. Peter's Basilica -- the celebration by Archbishop Raymond Burke, head of the Apostolic Signature, of the first High Mass according to the old Latin rite in St. Peter’s Basilica in 40 years, since 1969. And because of that lack of press coverage, the old Mass, that "mysterious tapestry of texts and actions," as Cardinal Ratzinger once termed it -- sometimes illogical, sometimes jumbled, but nevertheless always wonderful -- returned to St. Peter’s Basilica after 40 years without any special notice at all, almost, as it were, silently, almost like "a thief in the night."" (October 19, 2009 zenit.org)

From You Tube

Palm Sunday: The Holy Week Begins

The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem' mosaic by the Master of the Cappella Palatina in Palermo, Italy (Greco-Byzantine workshop, gift of Roger II, c. 1150).

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Sion, shout for joy, O daughter of Jerusalem: BEHOLD THY KING will come to thee, the just and saviour: he is poor, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.And I will destroy the chariot out of Ephraim, and the horse out of Jerusalem, and the bow for war shall be broken: and he shall speak peace to the Gentiles, and his power shall be from sea to sea, and from the rivers even to the end of the earth." Zecharia 9:9-10(Douay-Rheims Version)

This Sunday is the beginning of the Holy Week. This is one of the most festive and colorful celebrations in the Philippines. Children and adults alike enjoy going to Mass and have their palms blessed by the Parish Priest. Usually the palms are made from coconut leaves since this is the only available form of palm leaves. This week we will begin our reflections on the teachings of Christ and his ministry leading up to the apex of the celebration which is easter. Let us put up our intentions and may the Lord see fit to reward our efforts.

4th SUNDAY IN LENT: THE EUCHARIST AS MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST COMPASSION AND MERCY

Reflection on the 4th Sunday in Lent
Epistle: Galatians 4:22-31
Gospel: John 6:1-15

St. Thomas Aquinas, the angelic doctor has defended the Transubstantiation Doctrine

In the gospel we read how Jesus fed the multitude with loaves and fishes. Christ as the good shephered has demonstrated his love for the flock by providing them with their needs. How often and how many times we misinterpret the goodness of God and treat it in a worldly manner. Yes, God wishes to fill our bodily needs, but it goes beyond filling the needs of our bodies. Thus let us listen to God, and understand that he is interested not only in our bodies, but most of all the Spirit wich he seeks to save and cost him his Son Jesus on the cross.

3rd Sunday in Lent: A Demonstration of the Power of God

3rd Sunday in Lent
Epistle: Ephesians 5:1-9
Gospel: Luke 11:14-28

My Personal Reflection

Today we usher the third Sunday in Lent and todays readings reminds us of the powerful ministry of Jesus Christ. The Jews hearing and seeing the works of Christ criticize him for expelling demons and imputed evil things on him. But Jesus answered them in such powerful words as "But if I by the finger of God cast out devils; doubtless the Kingdom of God is come upon you... He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with me scatterreth." One of the signs of the reign of God is the redemption of the human race and this is shown how Christ in his ministry demonstrated his power to free us from the afflictions of evil things and from the shadow of death. With the gospel he gave us a foretaste of heaven and a hope of finally overcoming our weakness and entering the kingdom of God. In the epistle we saw that as we apply these principles in our lives, and as individual Christians one of the greatest challenge is for us to clean up ourselves and become followers of Christ as dear children. Serve him who has loved us so much by giving up himself in order to reddem us from the dominion of sin and despair.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ we thank you for your love and concern for us. You gave us deliverance and hope for the coming kingdom. Make us steadfast in our faith and continue to bless with your love. We ask this in your name. Amen.

First Sunday in Lent

16th century master illuminator Simon Bening's depiction of the devil approaching Jesus with a stone to be turned into bread [Photo from wikipedia]

Reflection by Dr. herbert r.

Tomorrow is the first Sunday in Lent. Lent is one of the holiest season of the liturgical year. It reminds us of one of the most important aspect of salvation history and our redemption. It reminds us of the fall of our first parents and to the woes by which the human race was subjected as a result of the fall. The "original sin" as termed by the Theologians, is evident in our way of thinking and attitude. Our enmity with God as expressed for our disdain for the good and our weakness to follow holy and good inspirations. this truth is poignantly expressed by St. Paul in the following words: "Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse; for though they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their senseless minds were darkened." [Romans 1:20-21 NRSV] But Christ's ministry demonstrated to us that by faith in his redeeming work we can overcome our weakness and obtain light. St. John the Baptist said, "For the Law came through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." The temptation in the desert demonstrated to us that we as Humans with the help of Christ can overcome the greatest temptations that leads to perdition. we can overcome our bodily desires, our desire for power and ambition and outr power to always presume and abuse the mercy of God. St. Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me..."

The graduale for tommorrow says thus: "Angelis suis Deus mandavit de te, ut custodiant te in omnibus viis tuis. In manibus portabunt te ne umquam offendas ad lapidem pedem tuum." Yes, as we walk in this dark word. With manifold temptations and problems, God is ready to send His angels to protect his people from falling. "For god knows how to take care of his own," says the apostle. So how do we respond to this? What is required of us is to believe, to trust and to obey. Obedience is such a painful word these days and many people cant bear the thoughts of obedience. But true faith obeys and follows the will of God.

Prayer:

Lord you are our habitation as in ages past. We thank you for giving us your Son to be our example. By his works of fortitude and love has shown us that we can overcome the world, the devil and the self. Lord please help our unbelief. Thank you for your mercy and love. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Lent is here!

"Immutemur, habitu, in cinere et cilicio, jejunemus, et ploremus ante Dominum:quia multum misericors est minittere peccata nostra Deus noster."

Let us change our garments for ashes and sackcloth: let us fast and lament before the Lord: for plenteous in mercy is our God to forgive our Sins [Anthiphon in the Blessings of Ashes]

VOTIVE MASS FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE

On September 26, 2008 as part of the culminating activities in the observance of the National Peace Consciousness Month, the Students and Faculty members of the Department of Peace Studies of Bicol University sponsored a votive mass for peace and justice, celebrated in the Ordinary Form. The Celebrant was Fr. Steve Loria, SOLT Novice Master of the Society of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT) of the SOLT Regionalate in Putiao, Pilar, Sorsogon, in the Philippines. The mass was celebrated with all simplicity and dignity. In the Philippines almost all social events are preceded by the Celebration of a Holy Mass. Not only in private but in cultural, civic and even in government activities. Although the constitution of the Philippines mandates the separation of Church and State, yet the church is very much and present in almost Levey aspect of the social life of the Filipinos. The display of religious symbols such as the crucifix, icons, images and Bibles is an omnipresent reality. Government offices are always decorated with religious images. And Masses and prayers meetings can be held even during working hours. In the Philippines separation of Church and State is interpreted not in the same way as is interpreted in some western country but as a means to support the free practice of religion.

"For this is my Body..."

The makeshift altar we prepared. Notice the simplicity but dignified altar furnishings and vestments. Indeed we are poor in terms of material things but we bring out the best that we can. God loves a cheerful giver and the Lord will see our hearts.

"For this is my Blood...."

The Novus Ordo Mass is here to stay. I would surmise that the congregation of students here will not be prepared for Latin Mass. They belong to the new generation born in the early 90s. But we celebrate it according to the norms of the books. We accept the validity and licitness of the Novus Ordo and we celebrate it according to the norms and rules prescribed the Holy Mother Church.

The Congregation of Students and Faculty Members

The Celebrant and Homilist, Rev. Fr. Steve Loria, SOLT

The Choir of Students who sang for the Mass

Offertory Procession

Very Touching Indonesian Mass Celebrations

Note: I would like to share with you a reaction to a post in the e-group apologia. I hope that this will give us some points to ponder upon especially the way we celebrate our Mass in the Philippines.


Twice I have been to Indonesia, especially in Bandung. The majority of the people in Bandung are Moslems, yet the Catholic Church is influential especially in the field of Education. They operate excellent universities and primary schools. In fact some of my Muslim friends have attended Catholic Schools. Upon learning that I am Catholic they try to win my confidence by demonstrating their little knowledge of Catholicsm. They talked about " Maria" and about "Missa". I inquired from them why they prefer to study in Catholic Schools when in fact there's a number of Moslem schools around, they replied by saying that they were impressed with Catholic education, and they go for quality.

When I was in Bandung I tried attending a Sunday Mass and a weekday mass as well. One thing I notice is that in the Cathedral of Bandung, they have excellent Liturgy. The Music used in the Mass was very reverent, unlike here in the Philippines. Here we use lots of loud music, and there are clapping of hands. But in Bandung they have a very reverent Novus Ordo Mass. Some of the common parts are sung in classical music by the Choir like the Sanctus, Pater Noster and Agnus Dei. Even the modern hymns were rendered in slow paced singing to give the reverent mode effect. I have attended two Sunday Masses. On the first time after I attended, I lingered on for the next mass to see if the next mass will still be the same, to my amazement it was the same! The next Sunday I observed that it was still the same. I guess that this reverent way the Novus Ordo Mass is said is the norm. During communion time they have ushers that led the faithful. Those who intend to receive communion must move row by row, pushing is avoided and no crowding. During the consecration the faithful were very reverent. I was impressed. After this experience, I felt so embarrassed. Look we pride ourself of being a Catholic Country, but here in a Muslim dominated country, a Catholic Church celebrates mass so dutifully, beautiful and so reverent.

I do not know why many Masses in the Philippines are like these. Is this a cultural thing, or is this the influence of the Charismatic movement or just plain trying to immitate the techniques of the "Born-again" groups. I am entertaining this thought that some of our Catholic friends here are so impressed by the spontaneity of the Charismatic Prayer Meetings that they seem to believe that if that style is brought into the Mass it would produce the same effect.

I would opine that some of us need to be taught about the importance of the Mass and to realize that we cannot equate the Mass with the prayer meetings of the Charismaics and the services in a Protestant Church. In some Protestant and Evangelical denominations there is the predominance of preaching. And sometimes the entire worship service revolves around community prayers and preachings. But Catholic Liturgical worhsip is different. It is centered on the Eucharist as a Sacrifice, a propitiation. Although it takes the form of a meal, It is not a meal. [Please correct me if I am wrong]. St. Paul rebuked the Corinthians for treating the eucharistic meetings as a meal. Thats why Paul told them to eat at home before going to the meetings. That they should not take the eucharist as an opportunity to have a meal and get drunk. Rather they should examine themselves well and that they must recognize that it is the Body and Blood of Christ.

Sincerely,

Dr. herbert

12th Sunday After Pentecost

The Group of Faithful who assisted at Today's Traditional Latin Mass, August 3, 2008, the 12th Sunday After Pentecost in the 1962 Roman Liturgical Calendar

The Traditional Latin Mass Community at the Aemilianum College assisted at a low Mass celebrated by the Chaplain, Fr. Abraham Arganiosa, CRS. Some of the Ladies were not around because it is the first Sunday of the Month and most of them are in their home parishes. However, as usual there were children and mothers who were first timers. There was also a young lady with her friends who happened to see the televised presentation of the TLM. She was challenged and was encouraged to join because of what she saw on TV. The TLM indeed offers us a window to the rich liturgical tradition of the Roman Church. As faithful Roman Catholics we love the Mass, it is the highest form of Prayer. Higher and better than our private prayer. This is because the Mass is the public prayer of the Church as a body. This is the main reason why the same words, the same readings are said in all Roman Catholic Churches because it is the Church of God praying together as one body wherever they are scattered or located. Whether in Africa, Asia, Rome or Oceania, the Church raises up its voice in unison in praise of God. Looking up to Christ our hope for the resurrection. This concept of the Mass is less understood by some. Some people will say why should I go to Mass when I can pray individually at home? The answer is simple, your prayer at home is your private prayer, but when you assist at Mass you pray together with the whole Church, and the corporate prayer of the Church is more pleasing in the eyes of God because it is the prayer of His Body redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, His Only Begotten Son and Our Lord and Savior.

Reflection and Readings

The 12th Sunday After Pentecost reminds us of the power of Baptism and confirmation which was given to us. This power should be seen in how we practice charity towards our neighbors. For the Charity of Christ is patient and unites the Faithful into one bond with the Lord who saved them from condemnation.

The Epistle for this Sunday is derived from 2 Corinthians 3:4-9. In this lesson the St. Paul contrasts the Law of Moses with the Law of Christ, the efficacy of the Old Testament Ministry and the New Testament. In the new law St. Paul tells us that we cannot claim sufficiency for ourselves because the ministry of the new Testament is more efficacious. Because instead of condemnation it saves.
The gospel reading for this Sunday is taken from St. Luke 10:23-37. Here Christ Our Lord illustrate the meaning of true Charity as demonstrated by the Good Samaritan. He that truly serves God must serve the wounded and the poor.

BROADCAST LIVE ON LOCAL TELEVISION: Votive Mass in Honor of St. Jerome Emiliani, Patron of the Traditional Latin Mass Apostolate in Sorsogon City

Narration by Dr. Herbert R.
and photos by the same unless otherwise indicated.

AITV5 Staff - cameramen and technician, all Electronics and Communications Engineering students of Aemilianum College. From left: Benjie, Jose Capsa, Arjay, Romeo, Arjay Duran and Chris Sesbreño. This is the first TLM Mass in Bicol Broadcast live over a local television. (This photo from the Splendor of the Church)

The Celebrant Fr. Abraham Arganiosa, CRS. At left is the author while on the right is Bro. Mark Bunag, a seminarian from the Diocese of Kalookan. In the group are the members of the Knights of the Altar.

For the First time, on July 20, 2008, the Traditional Latin Mass in Sorsogon City under the auspices of the Somascan Community in Aemilianum College, Sorsogon City, made public the celebration of the TLM. The event was recorded and broadcast over ACITV-5, the local television station operated by the Aemilianum College. For the first time the Traditional Latin Mass in Sorsogon City was broadcast live over television. We were also grateful for the presence of Bro. Mark Robinson Bunag, a Seminarian from the Diocese of Kalookan, Metro Manila, Philippines who willingly served as Cantor and at the same time organist. He helped prepare the students to served as schola cantorum who sang the common parts of the mass such as the Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus and Agnus Dei. It was indeed surprising that in just a short time the girls who sung the commons were able to get it almost near perfect. Moreover, Bro Mark excellently chanted the Introit, Graduale, and Post-Communion. His presence and the cooperation of the students of the Aemilianum College made this Missa Cantata possible. I took along with me my cousin who is a candidate for transitional deacon, another student and my co-worker Mrs. Gina. The three of them had wonderful comments about the way the Mass proceeded. They were extremely impressed with the music and one thing they said was that they appreciated the solemnity and the punctuated silences of the Traditional Latin Mass less evident in the Novus Ordo. Fr. Abraham Arganiosa, CRS our chaplain have wanted to make this Mass public but at that time he felt not so confident as yet with the rubrics. But Fr. Abe’s progress in learning the old rite is impressive. He is self-taught as far as the rubrics are concerned and has displayed great humility to learn the rubrics. He never allowed hectic schedules and communitarian duties to hamper his willingness to learn the rubrics of the Traditional Roman Rite.

The development of the TLM apostolate in Sorsogon City was indeed a miracle and clearly has the blessings of the Lord. I remember that way back in February it was just Fr. Abe, myself and a couple of persons who were there attending the Mass. We are also grateful to Fr. Richard, CRS the then superior of the House for allowing this mass and it was he who even suggested that it be moved from a Wednesday to a Sunday prime time. Today we are also grateful to Fr. Lino, CRS, the current superior for extending the permission.

The Ladies and the Children

As we quietly continue the apostolate we were blessed with the arrival of the Ladies from the Alliance of Two Hearts who volunteered to join the Traditional Latin Mass every Sunday. They also volunteered to clean the church, the altars and helped provide the linens. These Ladies are our “Dorcas”. Fr. Abe fondly calls them “Confradia de San Geronimo”. And today with these ladies, their families and children we have now the “stable group” required by the Summurom Pontificum.

Image of St. Jerome Emiliani, Patron of the Somascan Chapel. St. Jerome is the Patron Saint of the Orphans and the fatherless. Hence, the apostolate of the Somascans is centered on the care of the orphans and the education of the young.

The development of this TLM apostolate is indeed a miracle and a sign of the Goodwill of the Lord. In less than a year progress is being made. I almost despaired of looking for a priest who will be willing to celebrate the Mass. Through the power of blogging and internet networking with fellow Traditionally inclined Catholics Fr. Abe responded to my request and almost by the sheer goodwill of the Lord, there has never been an obstacle. But we realize that in the future there will be tests but we pray and trust in the Lord. Recalling the words of St. Teresa of Avila, “Be afraid of nothing, all things passes away, only the will of the Lord remains.” Thanks be to God for giving us the chance to show the splendor of the Church, the beauty of his temple.

O, Lord my God, where shall we go? You have the words of eternal life!

The Celebrant Performing the Rite of Exorcism of the Water and the Salt to be used for the Asperges and for various purposes to serve the needs of the faithful

The ancient rite of Order of Blessing was used in the preparation of this Holy Water to be used for the asperges. This ancient rite contains powerful and poetic prayers entreating the Lord to bless the water, the priest acting with the authority of the Church as signified by his vesture (the alb and the stole). The prayer recalls the experience of Eliseus and entreat that the blessed water with the salt will be for the health of the faithful and will vanish the evil that disturbs. The use of Holy Water is very ancient as far as the custom of the Church is. We are taught that Blessed water belongs to the order of sacramentals. Meaning to say they are symbols and that our faith is necessary to make it efficacious. It does not impart grace per se but it invokes the grace of God by means of our faith. When we use holy water with the right faith and intention it procures for us the favor and protection of God. Moreover we are taught that Holy Water has the power to cleanse us of our venial sins. Hence, the sprinkling of Holy Water is a reminder to us of our baptismal promises and helps too to remind us of the promise of Christ to restore us to the innocence of paradise lost by original sin.

"Asperges me...."

The asperges is not part of the Mass per se but it is considered as a form of preparatory prayers. Thus in the asperges the celebrant is expected not to wear the chasuble but is expected to wear the cope. In this case the celebrant does not wear the cope because we still do have it. In the near future we shall have it by the grace of God as He provides generously for the needs of His children.

Vesting of the Celebrant made more manifest the role of Alter Christus.

In the vesting of the Chasuble the Priest silently recites: "Domine, qui dixisti: Jugum meum suave est, et onus meum leve: fac, ut illud portare sic valeam, quod possim consequi tuam gratiam." ('O Lord, Who said: My yoke is easy and My burden light: grant that I may bear it well and follow after You with thanksgiving.'). Th chasuble is one of the most important vestment of the ministerial priesthood. The word Chasuble was taken from the Latin word casulla meaning "little house". Probably because it resembles a house. When the priest wears it, it covers both the front and the back. The priest is thus reminded to bear the yoke of Christ. This too is a reminder for all the faithful to follow the footsteps of Christ who said that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. What a blessing indeed to have Jesus as our Master and Teacher. How sweet it is to listen to his teachings and obey his word. This reminded me of my favorite English Hymn written by Fanny Crosby. One line says thus: "Tell me the story of Jesus, write on my heart every word tell me the story most precious. Sweetest that was ever heard. Tell how the angels in chorus sang as they welcomed his birth. Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good tidings on earth."

The Entrance Procession, O Lord I will gladly ascend to Mt. Zion with Joy and Singing!

Prayers at the Foot of the Altar

The prayers at the foot of the altar is a beautiful feature of the Old Mass which is no longer found in the Novus Ordo. In the prayers at the foot of the altar the Celebrant and the servers take turn in expressing their unworthiness to ascend and serve the Lord in the Altar of Calvary. This is a reminder too of the vision of prophet Isaiah where he expressed his unworthiness before the majesty of God. Henceforth God sent forth an angel bearing the coals from the altar and placed it in the mouth of the prophet, and the angel said from now on you are no longer unclean. Furhtermore the prayers at the foot of the altar also consists of the recitation of Psalm 42. The beautiful exchanges of the recitation of the versicle between the celebrant and the servers reminds us of how appropriate this psalm is for the beginning of the Mass. We are calling upon the Lord to send forth the light and the truth. Who is this light and truth - it is Jesus Christ, our eternal high priest, our eternal king and prophet.

The Homily and the Recitation of the Nicene Creed. The Celebrant and altar servers bowing low at the name of Jesus and remembering his incarnation.

The recitation of the Nicene Creed is very important because with one accord we join our voices with all the saints in heaven and on earth in expressing the same faith and the same communion. For as St. Paul Said, there is one Lord, one faith and one baptism.

Offertory

Major Elevation

And Jesus said, "Just as Moses lifted up the serpent on the desert and many were healed so the Son of Man shall be. When I am lifted up I will draw all men unto me...." My Lord and my God!

The Second Confiteor

Jesus said, "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood will have eternal life and I will raise him up on the Last Day." What a solemn promise, what a solemn pledge of salvation. Should we not humble ourselves and express our unworthiness by looking at the cross and say "mea culpa, mea clpa, mea maxima culpa...." but with eyes of faith and gratitude we partake of the communion of the body and blood of the Lord, taking hold of that solemn promise that on the last day he will raise us up to become glorious bodies, never to die, never to fear and in the end we shall forget about this painful world and we shall be ushered to the eternal happiness of the Kingdom of God where Father, Son and Holy Ghost reigns supreme. Let God arise and let His enemies be vanished. Amen and Amen.

Communion of the Faithful

"Lord I am not worthy that you should come under my roof, but only say thy word and thy servant shall be healed..." what a solemn declaration of faith and humility. God loves the humble, He shows him favor but He resists the proud. We see how the Lord and how the church honors the humble. The words of the humble centurion of Capernaum now immortalized not only in the book of the gospels but in the perpetual liturgy of the Roman Church.

Ite Missa est...Deo Gracias

Praise be to our Living God. Pray for our pledging TLM in Sorsogon City. The only Mass celebrated in the extraordinary Form in Bicol Region. The Mass is ended now go in Peace. Now we who have celebrated the mysteries of the faith are called upon to temporarily reiturn to our homes to the world and there be a light to the darkened world. A world immersed in darkness, sin and pride. As Christians we must go forth and proclaim the light of Christ in both our religious and secular spheres. Influencing the world, our work, our professions and out homes so that it may conform to the gospels. Amen, amen and amen.

6th Sunday after Pentecost

Sixth Sunday After Pentecost Reminds us of the Importance of Baptism and the Eucharist. Easter and pentecost reminds us of these two great Sacraments by which the Almighty Father, through His Son Jesus Christ, restored us to the State of Grace, removing the stain of original sin which has clouded God's image in us because of pride and disobedience. Furthermore the Eucharist reminds us too that we are still a pilgrim called to be in the Kingdom of God. The Eucharist sustains us in this journey. It is also a pledge of God's salvation for us. For though we do not yet posses the Kingdom in actuality but He demonstrates to us that by giving us His Flesh to eat that we are to live and believe that the Kingdom of God is ours because we have received Him who is our reddemer and Savior. On the other hand the Eucharist is also an expression of Christ's love for His Church. He demonstrated this not only by means of Sacrifice but by offering His Flesh and Blood for us to be our food and drink. Eating and Drinking demontrates unity betwen the one who eats and the one eaten. What a perfect demonstration of Charity!

St. Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles (by El Greco)

His Letter to the Corinthians He has given us a short passage, but very vivid indeed on how we are suppose to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord.

The Lectio for Today is taken from Letter of St. Paul to the Romans 6:3-11 in this passage of the scriptures, the apostle explains to us that Baptism symbolizes our death to the life of sin. Just as died for us, we too who have been redeemed must die to sin. We cannot call ourselves Christians unless we die to our sin. When Jesus said to Mary Magdalene, "Go and Sin no more..." simple lines from the words of Our Lord but it summarizes the Baptismal Grace we ought to receive. Thus every Sunday when we profess the Creed, when holy water is sprinkled and when caldes are lighted we are reminded constantly of the our Baprismal promises. By virtue of our Baptism we are made into Priests, kings and Prophets. Indeed, a Royal and Kingly Nation, set to be apart from the rest to proclaim the Glorious Will and love of God.

The Gospel Reading is taken from The Gospel According to St. Mark 8:1-9 the gospel reading today reminds us of the Compassion of Christ. he saw the crowds as if they were sheep without a Shephered. The flock was wondering looking for a shephered, they are hungry and bruised. Christ's heart was touched, filled with compassion He gave them bread. So in the Eucharist when we come, we encounter Christ our Lord, full of compassion for us. Full of love. he knows that we have struggled through out the day and that by receiving Him in the Sacrament we are told to take refuge and comfort. Thus one practical lesson for us is to be preprare. There are prayers we need to recite and meditations to do before we receive the Eucharist. By doing these practical exercises, it prepares us, sets our minds and prepares our hearts to benefit from this gift. It is a oy and consolation to receive the bread of angels, the real manna from heaven, as we waith for the day when we shall be in the eternal banquet in the kingdom of the Lamb. Lamb of God who takest away the sins of the world have mercy on us. Lord I am not worthy that you should come under my roof but only say thine word and I shall be healed.

Fr. Z. has a beutiful explanation as to why the early Fathers of the Church included the centurion's statement in the Canon of the Mass. You may visit his site by following the link.

Prayer: Lord Almighty Father, we are indeed duly bound to thank you because of the gift you have given to us through your only begotten Son, by whom we also obtained our adaptions as Children of God. We thank you for the Grace you bestow on us by means of Baptism and the Holy Eucharist, by these you resores us to your grace and sanctifying grace so that we can recover the innocence of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Thank you Lord, we pray in Jesus name Amen.

Fourth Sunday After Pentecost TLM Sorsogon City

Narration by Dr. Herbert

Photos Courtesy of Fr. Abraham Arganiosa, CRS

The TLM Community at the Amaelianum College Chapel in Sorsogon City

This is the TLM community posing for a photo with Fr. Abe. Lets pray that the community will grow. I have heard that last First Friday they did have a solemn benediction in the College Chapel and a vigil from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 mid night. I live in Tabaco City some 40 kilometers away and with my responsibilities in the University I cannot attend to this religious exercises. But every Sunday I make it possible to be around. I have volunteered to train and teach the altar servers of Fr. Abe so that as time goes on they will be used to assist in this mass. I always believe that adherence to the rubrics of the Mass according to the 1962 Missal is important for the proper execution of the Rite. Correctness in the observance of the rubrics enhances the beauty of the Rite. One thing I appreciate in the TLM is that aside from being a Rite and a prayer, it is also a work of art. It enhances the higher sensibilities of humans and just like an icon it transport the consciousness of the worshiper to the world of the Divine. May God bless Amaelianum College, may He prosper his work among the Somascans and may He show His great favor for this TLM apostolate, which at the moment is the only one available here in the entire Bicol Region.

The Leonine Prayers

The Recitation of the Leonine Prayers enhances the devotion of the People. Although there were singing in the Mass (missa cantata) Fr. Abe decided to recite the Leonine Prayers. Help us pray that the Lord will send an organist and vocalist in this TLM apostolate. If you have missalette / booklets to spare please donate them to our TLM so that the faithful attending this mass will have something to folow through. We do not have a wireless microphone thats why Fr. Abe says mass without a microphone. Since the existing microphoe has a wire and it will be inconvenient for him to use it since his hands will be busy with the missal and the elements of the Sacrament.

Entrance Procession

Fr. Abe Arganiosa and the Two Seminarians from the Alliance of Two Hearts who Volunteered their Services to as Acolytes. This is their first time to serve as acolytes for the Tridentine Mass, although they are used to serving at the Latin Novus Ordo Mass in their Seminary. The Alliance of The Hearts are known for their deep love and devotion to the Eucharist. They are in Sorsogon for a visit to their third order community. They found the Tridentine Rite fascinating although they seem to struggle also with the rubrics, since the movements and positions are more stringent in the TLM compared to the Novus Ordo.

"Lord, I am not worthy that you should come under my roof, but only say thine word and I shall be healed..."

Every communion time we are reminded of the Humility of the Centurion. Marvelous line from the scripture, immortalized in the Mass. The words of the Centurion, expressing humility and faith has found immortality in the Mass. God is our Father He is good and He loves the humble person. Pride was the main reason why the human race fell from grace, humility is the vehicle by which God will restore the human race to His Sanctifying Grace. "For God resists the proud but but gives grace to the humble." Amen.

ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO SPEARHEADS TLM TRAINING

Low Mass in the Extraordinary Form: Recitation of the Confiteor

The Archdiocese of Chicago is spearheading a five-day Training for Priests who would like to learn to say the Traditional Latin Mass according to the 1962 Edition Typica of the Roman Missal. Here is a brief qoute from the News item from Zenit:

"Cardinal George, the archbishop of Chicago, said this about a five-day Traditional Latin Mass Training Workshop for priests and seminarians hosted last week by the Canons Regular of St. John Cantius in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Chicago.Hailing from all over the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Lithuania, Italy, and the Philippines, the participating priests and seminarians stayed at the campus of Mundelein Seminary to attend a hands-on workshop on the celebration of the extraordinary form of the Mass of the Roman rite held at the Cardinal Stritch Retreat House. " Read more from Zenit .

Here is my opinion: How I wish that the steps undertaken by the Archdiocese of Chicago to comply with the express wishes of the Holy Father in his Motu Proprio S.F. will encourage other dioceses or ecclesistical provinces to equipp their seminarians and priests with the knowledge of this form of celebrating the Mass.

Propagating the Traditional Latin Mass in Bicol: Iriga City

I was privilege to be invited on May 4,2008 to assist in the TLM celebrated by Fr. Abe, CRS in connection with the retreat he conducted with the nuns and novices of the Siervas de Jesus Convent in Iriga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines. Iriga is a City in the Center of the Bicol Peninsula. Fr. Abe wanted to provide the sisters a window to the ancient Liturgy of the Latin Rite. It seems now that through this apostolate, the TLM is being propagated little by little in the Bicol Peninsula where the Traditional Forms of the Liturgy has vanished since the post conciliar reform of the Liturgy. We were delighted to have the Superior of the House sing, who herself is a musician and singer. So we had a schola for the first time since the TLM was celebrated last February 2008 in Sorsogon City. This was our first Missa Cantata. Indeed it was edifying to observe how the sisters sang and responded to the dialogues of the Mass. It was also their first time to observe the silent recitation of the Canon of the Mass. Indeed what a fitting spiritual treat to retreatants to savour the beauty of this ancient liturgy celebrated by saints of old and until now continues to edify the faithful. Even if bereft of vestments and other minor vessels, the Mass in its ancient form can be celebrated in the most dignified way. And it never fails to exude it spiritual beauty and radiance. A delight to the souls of them that trusts in the Lord, who listens to His Word and accept the gift of salvation. What shall I give to the Lord for all the things He has done unto me? I will take the cup of salvation and praise the name of the Lord!

The Introit

Offertory

The Major Elevation of the Host

Communion of the Faithful

Communion of the Faithful

FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EASTER: OUR FIRST SUNDAY MASS IN THE EXTRAORDINARY FORM

On the fifth Sunday after Easter, Fr. Abe, CRS celebrated the Mass in the Extraordinary Form. A group of lay faithful assisted in the Mass. I was privileged to be present to assist in this Mass. The inclement weather outside brought heavy down pours, but despite of that Fr. Abe and the rest of us were able to fulfill our Sunday obligations. Fr. Abe had just concluded a weeklong retreat with the Somascan Sisters plus the series of activities in the convent and in the school. They were also preparing for the 'despedida" for priests and religious who will be leaving for new assignments. Fr. Richard Germanetto, CRS, his superior was transferred to their Seminary in Tagaytay. Fr. Richard was the one who gave encouragement to Fr. Abe to say this Mass. In fact before leaving for his new assignment, Fr. Richard bequeted to Fr. Abe a copy of the Liber Usualis. Due to stress brought about by the demands of the work, it was inevitable that Fr. Abe sufferred from his sinusitis, but he said that the thought that he would be celebrating the Traditional Latin Mass strengthened him and by a miracle this Sunday he was already feeling well. He was able to say the Mass for all of us. I observe that as time goes on things are getting better with our celebrations. Hopefully by June we shall be able to have the Missa Cantata.

The Appearance of the Altar after the Dismisal

Based on available resources, Fr. Abe and his Knights of the Altar made every effort to make the altar beautiful. The altar is the focal point of the Celebration because it symbolizes, Christ and His Passion. Looking at the Altar and reflecting on what it stands for, brings us to a deeper realization of what it took Our Lord to redeem us. Does this thought moves us to love Him all the more and to love our neighbor for the sake of Him who loved us?

The Mass Begins!

The simplicity of the St. Jerome Emiliani Chapel in Sorsogon City evokes the noble intentions that Our Lord desires from us. True faith is unassuming, and above all it is obedient. For the Lord said that, He desires obedience and not sacrifice. For what shall we render unto the Lord for all His goodness? I will take the cup of salvation and bless the Lord!

The Major Elevation

Lord, you are the source of Life, by your blood you have redeemed us to be your own. Ought not that we die to our selfishness and give ourselves to you? The Lord said to the disciples, "can you take the cup that I am about to take?" " And if I am lifted up, I will draw all men unto myself".

The Communion

"Grant to us, O Lord, who are filled with strength, from this heavenly Table, that we may both desire what is right, and obtain what we desire, through Our Lord." - Post Communion Prayer.

"Consumatum Est!" It is Finished: The Ablutions

Just before Christ expired on the Cross, He exclaimed "Consumatum Est!" What a profound statement from a dying man, both vivid and sincere. But this cry of the Lord is the life of the World. He has entered the Holy of Holies and concluded the sacrifice. "What shall I render unto the Lord for all the things He has done unto me?" This is the meaning signified by the ablutions. May this liturgical action bring us to that realization.

The Leonine Prayers

In the quietness and stillness the offering is done.

Fear not little flock!

Christ said to his disciples, "Fear not little flock for it has pleased the Father to give you the Kingdom!" What consoling words from Our Lord Jesus Christ. Indeed buffeted we are from persecutions and weariness, there Our Lord stands to console us and to give us strength. In hope is our Salvation. A recurring theme in the writings of Pope Benedict XVI.

"The Confradia"

These ladies are tertiary members of the Oath Alliance of Two Hearts in Sorsogon City. Father Abe jokingly said that they are Oath members but here in St. Jerome Emeliani Chapel they are the "Confradia". These Ladies requested to be allowed to join in the Tridentine Mass. They encountered problem with their pastor who refuse to give them communion because they prefer to receive communion kneeling. I think that pastors should be solicitous and sensitive to the needs of their flock. There is nothing wrong with kneeling when receiving communion. Besides the shallow reason given was that it can delay or prolong the communion line. But how could that be when there are plenty of extraordinary ministers of communion? Even exceeding the numbers required. But you can see the happiness in the faces of these ladies. At last they have found a place where they can freely receive the sacrament. Besides no questions at all because the rubrics of the Tridentine Rite dictates that communion be received on the tongue and in a kneeling position.

Pray for us, pray for this apostolate and labor of Love.