Misyon Online - January-February 2011

By Richelle H. Verdeprado

Born in Omagh, Northern Ireland on 15 December 1926, Fr Terence Bennett or ‘Father Terry’ has spent most of his life as a Columban missionary priest in Negros, Philippines. This morning, eight days before he celebrates his 84th birthday and three days before he returns to Ireland, I’m happy to be given this opportunity to interview him. Father Seán had introduced us to each other several times already, perhaps because we kept forgetting each other. But after this one-hour interview, I’m sure we won’t be forgetting each other anymore.

Integral Evangelization by the Columbans in Negros

By Jack B. Pamine
Mission Awareness Ministry

In my Basic Christian Community-Community Organizing (BCC-CO) days, after I left the Redemptorist Formation program, we taught three models of Basic Christian Communities (BCCs): liturgical, developmental and liberational. I didn’t expect to see these being implemented by the Columbans, though maybe I didn’t recognize that they all belong to what is now called ‘integral evangelization’.

‘Come after me and I will make you fishers of men’ (Mark 1:17)

By Rodolfo Christopher Kaamiño IV

Friends ask me what I’m doing here in Taiwan. Half-jokingly, ‘Washing asses’ is my frequent reply, and they laugh, thinking I might be joking or that I mean something else. Here is somebody who has studied for four years in graduate school in the USA now washing other people’s asses. It led me to wonder what’s ‘wrong’ with this, probably because it’s a ‘dirty’ job, or because it’s not a ‘classy job’, a ‘sophisticated profession’ such as engineering or accountancy. A friend asked me why I’m doing this. I told him I don’t do it on my own, or else I would have quit a long time ago. I have some help from above.

From Iligan to Vilvoorde

By Sr Marie Paul Therese OCD

I am so grateful to our Almighty Father for the gift of life, for allowing me to witness to His grandeur and for giving me this privilege of sharing with you, my dear brothers and sisters.

At home, in school and among my friends, I was fondly called ‘Jijie’. My real name is Jurechille Catalan. That has now been changed to Sr Marie Paul Therese, the religious name given to me during my Clothing (reception of the habit) in October 2009 here in Vilvoorde Carmel.

MONICA AND KRZYSZTOF

By Father Bobby Gilmore

Recently, I met Monica Mysko, an immigrant from Poland. In a conversation with Monica one would be given to think that she is a native of County Meath. Her accent and her English are perfect. Although she learned basic English as a child going to school in Legnica, a town near the German border, she has perfected her English as an immigrant in England for two years and in the past two years since she arrived in Ireland.

Pulong ng Editor

Author:

Fr Seán Coyle SSC

From Iligan To Vilvoorde

by Sr Marie Paul Therese OCD

Sr Marie Paul Therese wrote this for the newsletter of the Carmel in Vilvoorde, Belgium, which we have featured before in Misyon. It has been slightly edited. You can find the English-language blog of the monastery here.

I am so grateful to our Almighty Father for the gift of life, for allowing me to witness to His grandeur and for giving me this privilege of sharing with you, my dear brothers and sisters.

I was a postulant before in an active-teaching congregation in the Philippines, the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM), founded by Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo, a Filipina-Chinese. After the one-year postulancy, I returned home in order to resolve some family issues and help my widowed mother to send my younger brothers and sister to school because we were poor. But it was already carved in my heart before I left the convent that I had found my place in religious life. I continued my life outside with my family. I was a teacher by profession but had more experience in a simple business than in teaching. I became an active catechist and a member of the Redemptorist Youth Ministry in Iligan City, where I’m from. Even when I was still a student, I already loved to join religious activities.

Then came the turning point in my life as a young adult because it seemed I was a restless vagabond. I reconsidered the reason I let the convent and set aside my desire. I didn’t see myself really helping my family financially but the other way around. My dear mother retired from being a public school teacher but had to wait for five years to receive her pension. I still wanted to help her and stay with her. Twice I submitted an application letter to a public school. At the same time I was praying that I could go back to the convent. My disposition was still divided and not directed towards one goal.

In May 2008 I got a call from Christ the King College, Maranding, Lanao del Norte, for a class demonstration with freshmen college students. (Editor’s note: Christ the King was founded by the late Fr Edmund Bahl, a Columban priest from Buffalo, New York, in 1950). I was hesitant to respond but I was also thinking of our financial condition. My mother invited me to have a heart-to-heart talk with her. She asked me two striking questions that until now linger in my memory. First, ‘Child, tell me, do you still desire to go back to the convent?’ I spontaneously answered, ‘Yes, Mom!’ And the second, ‘What do you really want to do with your life? You must decide now and put your disposition in place. You cannot serve two masters at the same time’. I honestly answered her that at that very moment I was aspiring to enter another congregation and told her, ‘If everything goes well, I might be sent to another country’. Mommy kept quiet for a moment and broke her silence saying, ‘Well, if that is the will of God for you, I will let you go. I will not prevent your happiness in life. And if your happiness is to serve God in that way, just always remember us in your prayers’.

That moment it seemed I was freed from a kind of imprisonment. At the same time my heart was torn to pieces as I saw the real motherhood of my own mother. I was truly happy then when Mommy helped me pray and supported my decision to pursue a three-month aspirancy in Cebu Carmel. Yet there was no assurance of anything at that moment. What gave me strength to carry on despite the fears and doubts was the ‘voice’ within my heart, the desire for God . . .

I came to know the Carmelite nuns of Cebu after I read an article, Touches of God, by Sr Mary Carmela in Misyon, the magazine of the Columban Fathers, around November 2007. Mrs Carmen Acosta had kindly lent it to me and later supported me in my decision. The article was about Sr Mary Carmela’s first home visit to the Philippines as a Carmelite contemplative-missionary based in Vilvoorde, Belgium. I was able to get in touch with her through the email address at the bottom of her article. And from then on another phase of my love story with Jesus began.

Now that I am in Vilvoorde I am grateful to God, Who has made Himself tangible and visible to me through my experiences in this small, simple and quiet city, especially in our Carmel, where the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Consolation stands in our midst. I am so awed by the beauty, generosity, gentleness and kindness of the people He sent me. There is no reason why I can’t adjust, as my older Sisters here have encouragingly told me. I have been helped to be myself though I am in another culture, time and space. At first, everything was beyond my imagination but I felt at home. Being ‘at home’ is a grace from God that has sustained me in my present state as a beginner in the religious life. As a beginner, each day is a prayer of offering for perseverance and endurance not only for myself but for the whole of humanity.

I am hoping that in the near future, while growing more in loving God through Jesus, from somewhere in this beautiful country and the rest of the world, He will send some other young women, regardless of race or colour, who would want to journey with us. Only Our Lord Jesus knows well whom to call and who will respond to His call with courage and faith, for His greater glory and honour, and for the welfare of our Catholic Church, especially in Flanders.

For our beloved Church here in Belgium, may you allow me to share my wishes and prayers for you . . .

Rest assured that each day the ‘Little Way’ of St Thérèse of the Child Jesus will be practised for your sake and the intercession of Edith Stein (St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross), Patroness of Europe, invoked.

There is no healing without woundedness. Thus, I strongly believe that in God’s own time all things will be made beautiful according to His most holy will, as He has done to my poor soul, although healing is a lifetime process. Only in heaven will all be perfectly healed. If one worthless soul can be lifted up by God’s loving arms, how much more the whole wounded Church of Christ? Let us just continue to pray together and remain in His love for He is always present in us whether we are aware of it or not, whether we like Him or not. Jesus always awaits us within. Hopefully, we can recognize His indwelling in our hearts. No one is worthy except Our Lord Jesus Christ but still we receive His gratuitous goodness and unconditional love. God’s mercy is enough for all of us. However, the mystery of God’s love is unfathomable.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ and in Our Blessed Mother, allow me to end with a simple invitation:

Each day in our daily undertakings may we spare a single drop of prayer for our wounded Church in Flanders for I believe that it is his will somehow to bring forth a soothing effect on the ‘swollen sores’ of our people. Till here and keep in touch in prayer. To God be all the glory and honour!

One with you in love and prayer,
Sr Marie Paul Therese of Jesus, the Good Shepherd

Author:

Sr Marie Paul Therese OCD

His Home In Negros

By Richelle H. Verdeprado

Father Terry was the eldest of seven children. The idea of becoming a priest came to him through the first cousin of his mother, Fr Thomas ‘Tommie’ McGovern, who was a Columban priest, prayed for him that he would enter the seminary and it happened. Father Terry joined the Columbans at the age of 17. Father Tommie also prayed for his younger brother Donal and the same thing happened.

Father Terry’s first assignment after he was ordained in December 1950 was the Philippines. He arrived in Manila on 21 November 1951 and then moved to Isabela, Negros Occidental, on his birthday. When he arrived in Negros, the parishioners had prepared a despedida party for Fr Michael Cullen and a bienvenida party for him. It was a fun celebration and it gave Father Terry a very positive impression of Negrosanons and Filipinos.

Father Terry stayed in Isabela for only three months. There was a need for a chaplain in St Paul’s College, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, and so he was immediately sent there. After almost three years, he returned to Negros Occidental and was assigned to several parishes such as Kabankalan, Moises Padilla and Sipalay. He learned Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), the language spoken in most of Negros Occidental, and loved doing so. One thing that amazed him was that people were very patient with him while he was learning the language. Back then, only a few in the community could speak and understand English. He had to use Hiligaynon in the Mass and because he wasn’t confident of saying what he meant to say, he would only give short sermons. That was the reason why Father Terry really exerted efforts in practicing the language.

After seven years in Negros, Father Terry returned to Ireland for a vacation and when he came back to the Philippines he was assigned to Student Catholic Action (SCA) in Manila. Members would meet at weekends in small groups to discuss a passage from the Bible, to share their personal reflections and to help each other strengthen their relationship with God. They also developed potential leaders from the group. Father Terry then recalled that the SCA was discouraged by the government during Martial Law and even banned along with other student organizations. Despite this, members remained steadfast in their commitment. Never did he think that what started as a gathering of a few students would later expand throughout the country.

After serving selflessly in Manila, Father Terry was reassigned to Negros. It was in Negros where he dedicated most of his time and energy as a priest. It was in Negros where he encountered people traveling endlessly as he witnessed daily the great number of passengers on busses and jeepneys throughout Negros. It was in Negros where he experienced his most difficult moment which turned out to be the most memorable one.

This life-testing event happened in 1978 in Sipalay, in the southern part of Negros Occidental. There was a rally against soldiers who had been violating the rights of the people and contributing to the terror in the area. The priests had a meeting first and designated tasks for the rally even though Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich advised against it. There was great pressure from the local government yet despite the fear they felt within, what was the most important for the priests and people during that time was to fight injustice.

The speaker before Father Terry had caused intense reaction among the people. Father Terry was really worried that the rally might turn violent and so to keep the rally peaceful, he felt that it was his role to calm everyone. And so he did! He even sang and danced in front of the crowd to change the atmosphere inside the church compound. As they struggled together against injustice, they ended their rally with a song Father Terry will never forget. With joyful hearts and unwavering hope, they sang Ang Kalipay sang Ginuo Amo ang Aton Kusog (‘The Joy of the Lord is our Strength’).

Negros will always be a home for Father Terry even though he is now living in his native land. Filipinos will always be a family for him and those who are blessed to know him will certainly not forget him. How could we forget a man who has shown concern about the social realities affecting us? How could we forget such a humble priest who can understand what the people feel? There will always be this connection of feelings that will bridge the people of the Philippines and Father Terry in Ireland. This connection is that kind which will inspire us to pray for each other and to sing out loud that the joy of our Lord is our strength.

You may email the author at rich_verde706@yahoo.com.ph

Author:

Richelle H. Verdeprado

Integral Evangelization By The Columbans In Negros

By Jack B. Pamine
Mission Awareness Ministry

My first encounter with these models was in southern Negros Occidental, now the Diocese of Kabankalan, as a Redemptorist in Cebu, on my first summer mission experience in 1984. Three of us chose the Land of Sugarcane instead of going to a barrio. We also attended almost daily the court hearings of the Negros Nine in Kabankalan at the invitation of Redemptorists Fr Francis Connon and Fr Patrick Sugrue. I had no idea then of the Columbans’ work except that they had a room in the Redemptorist Monastery in Bacolod. My first image of a Columban was Fr Mark Kavanagh, an Irishman. Years later I was to change my affiliation from the Redemptorists to the Columbans but with the same mission of Christ

I was amazed during the trial of the Negros Nine to hear the former cook of Fr Niall O’Brien allege that Father Niall and Fr Brian Gore had plotted in the convento the killing of Mayor Sola of Kabankalan. I saw the court interpreter cry as he translated this statement. The immediate question that came into my mind was ‘Why?’ I understood later that the accused priests were championing the ‘liberational model’ for building BCCs, by supporting the rights of the poor and challenging the unjust social order that kept them in the poverty and misery that was very apparent at that time.

While the trial was going on inside a multitude were kneeling and praying in the public plaza outside led by Columban priests. I recognized the commanding presence of Fr Terence Bennett, with rosary in his hands, because he had brought me to the Columban family. From the balcony of the courtroom I had a clear view of what was going on. People whose physical appearance showed they were poor were kneeling and praying the rosary. Their placards identified the organizations they belonged to. The most recognizable were Kristianong Katilingban (BCCs) and the Legion of Mary. It was rather odd to have the two together. The scene of people kneeling I attributed to the ‘liturgical model’ of BCCs.

Working with the Columbans, I discovered the great contribution they had made in Negros and one that completed the integral approach. They had followed the ‘developmental model’ by building schools. They founded almost all the schools in the South, from the then St Joseph Academy, now Saint Joseph College of Canlaon in Negros Oriental, by ‘sports guru’ the late Fr Colum O’Halpin and the late Fr Patrick Hynes, to St Michael’s Academy in Hinobaan, nearly two hundred kilometers away. The Franciscan Apostolic Sisters who later took charge in Canlaon did not know who had founded the school till I told them.

Most of this was before Vatican II. The Columbans saw education as a way to uplift the people from poverty. Columban Fr Michael Doohan also founded a vocational school to prepare students for jobs that could earn them a living.

The Columbans were also into health services, the production of liturgical material, sports, scholarship programs not only for ordinary students but also for seminarians, and a whole variety of pastoral engagements, including support for catechists. They did what seemed unthinkable at the time. They didn’t always agree about what each other was doing. But looking at the whole picture, it was two sides of the same coin, the Mission of the Church, an Integral Evangelization in place.

For me, one of the greatest contributions of the Columbans, and that we need to continue to nurture in this land of extreme poverty and wealth, is active non-violence, epitomized by the struggle of the Negros Nine.

The evangelization by the Columbans of southern Negros Occidental was really great. Maybe before the last living witnesses die, someone should write a book about their presence, not their absence. The ball is now passed to the Filipino diocesan priests. I can already sense that history is fading because after 15 years of visiting the schools I find that the students don’t know the Columbans anymore. They are not recognized, apart from Fr Patrick Hurley after whom a gym in Binalbagan is named. I am tempted to suggest to school administrators to teach the history of their schools and of those who worked in the local community and church, and not only the rather absurd data such as ‘who killed Magellan’.

There are now only four Columban priests left in Negros, two above 80 and the other two approaching 70. We full-time Columban workers will eventually fade with them. Now is the time to think and act: How can we perpetually remember the presence of the Columbans so that future generations will be thankful?

Author:

Jack Pamine

MISYON Student Essay Contest 2010 WINNERS

Congratulations to the following winners of
MISYON Student Essay Contest 2010

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

FIRST PLACE -- How Can I Make Peace Alive in My World?
By Ayana Jamnia G. Maranda
Third Year – Class 303, La Salle Academy, Iligan City

SECOND PLACE -- How can I make peace come alive in my world?
By Nicole Shaun J. Cosico
Third Year – S, Corpus Christi School, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City

THIRD PLACE -- Would You Like a Sandwich?
By Ma. Isabela Agawin
Third Year – St Bonaventure, Lourdes College, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City

10 CONSOLATION PRIZES

A -- How to Make Peace Come Alive in My World
By Mary Michie A. Gambe
Fourth Year, Rosevale School, Xavier Estates, Cagayan de Oro City

B -- My child, my child, stop!
By Krixia Zhienelle A. Subingsubing
Third Year – St Augustine, St Paul College Makati, Makati City

C -- A PEACE OF MY PEACE
By Kelly Stan L. Fausto
Third Year – Ampan Carbonell, Mary Help of Christians School, Mabiga, Mabalacat, Pampanga

D -- Making the World’s Dream Come True
By Arielle Angelique S. Cruz
Fourth Year – St Helena, St Scholastica’s Academy, Bacolod City

E -- How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?
By Angeline Clarisse Pasinabo
Grade 9 – St Augustine, La Consolacion College - Integrated School, Bacolod City

F -- A Walk to Remember
By Val Amiel Vestil
Third Year – Einstein, Liceo de Cagayan University High School, Cagayan de Oro City

G -- How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?
By Jessa Mae Margallo
First Year – Gauss, Liceo de Cagayan University High School, Cagayan de Oro City

H -- How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?
By Johnray S. Asiñero
Fourth Year – St John Vianney, Sacred Heart Academy, Bugo, Cagayan de Oro City

I -- How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?
By Alfred Benedict Bayan
Fourth Year – 1 (St Frances Xavier Cabrini), Saint Augustine’s School, Tagudin, Ilocos Sur

J -- How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?
By Mika Angela C. Sareno
Second Year – St Bartholomew, Lourdes College, Basic Education Department, Cagayan de Oro City

First Place Winner

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Ayana Jamnia G. Maranda
Third Year – Class 303, La Salle Academy, Iligan City

We may have different cultures, traditions and religious beliefs that we follow. Despite all of these, with a hypothetical guess, I can say that ‘peace’ is one word by which we are bound and united together. Peace is universal so that each and every one of us understands it but I can say that not all of us live with it fully. As the adage goes, ‘When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others.’

At an early age, about six, I experienced being in a war with my family. We were about to go home from Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, to Iligan City when suddenly somebody declared war and in a minute a house was burned, followed by another and so on. Knowing that I’m only six and witnessing these acts that disenfranchise us of the right to life, I was hysterical. I couldn’t internalize everything but my parents were beside me, never left me behind and showed to me that they’re strong and firm and that we could survive it. And yes we did. We were able to ride a native boat safely out of the place.

Years later I began to reflect on what had happened knowing that we’re in Mindanao, that there are different issues needed to be solved from different religions. I was able to conclude that in engaging in war, nobody wins and everybody loses. War is not a solution to a problem but compromises each other’s differences. That’s why we need to understand each other knowing that we’re so diverse, for us not to be led into misconceptions and biases.

Peace can be in the simplest form – a smile. Wearing a smile and sharing it with other people will make them smile back even if you don’t know them. It shows how contagious it is on a positive side. In addition, peace can be achieved in three aspects: peace of mind, body and especially peace of heart. As I gradually grew, I became open to both religions: Christianity and Islam. My mom’s a Catholic and my dad’s a Muslim. They compromised in raising me as a well-rounded child as well as with my siblings in introducing us to both traditions and cultures in order for us to know the background and be open to accepting it. As I watch the world go by, especially here in the Land of Promise, Mindanao, where those two religions are in conflict it saddens and hurts me so much because of the questions that linger in my mind so that gradually I am trying to know and find out what the answer is. Like, why can’t they compromise the same way as my parents did even if they are different in terms of religion? Why can’t they consider the people who are innocent, that is, to get to know a victim of violence? Why can’t they think about the young who are still incapable of dealing with these events and that it would lead them into delusion? All these thoughts I know can help me make peace alive in my world.

For fifteen years of meaningful life blessings, I have been a part of the youth in responding to the call to change: it’s never too late to do something better. Visiting and sharing my blessings at Bantay Bata in our city. Also in celebrating my birthdays with others, responsible for my actions and words, setting a good example on the part of being a Muslim and a Christian by being universal, loving, meeting new friends and not choosing who they are and where they come from, an obedient child and above all one who professes faith in God despite that my parents have different religions.

I alone cannot attain peace. You, Me, We have to do it.

Second Place Winner

How can I make peace come alive in my world?

By Nicole Shaun J. Cosico
Third Year – S, Corpus Christi School, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City

What does a 14-year-old like me know about world peace? I am only a junior high school student, studying in a private school here in the Philippines. I have seen and read terrible news about wars and terrorist attacks in other countries. Religion has been one of the reasons why some people wage wars. Siddharta Gautama, a spiritual teacher who founded Buddhism and also known as Buddha, said that there is no happiness like peace. Without peace, life is not possible. That is why it is important for us to understand ourselves and our upbringing because the things we do affect the people around us.

The world was in great shock when the 9/11 attack happened and crushed the World Trade Center. Many innocent people were killed. Even here in my own country, killings happen. Just like the recent Manila hostage crisis in Quirino Grandstand, innocent lives were lost too. The Abu Sayaff kidnappings have not stopped. This has ruined our country’s image. None of us want this to happen but how are we able to gain trust from people in other countries? Violence is not the answer. It only increases the problem. Each war creates another war. I hope we all have learned from history, how war has caused negative effects in our world.

Peace is always present. We have to learn to accept our differences in culture, race and religion. We must demand peace with all our heart. Seek truth for ourselves and not through organizations and through propaganda in the media. We must understand our minds because it is the beginning of peace. If we think wrongly, our actions become wrong. Jesus Christ said that we must let the peace of God rule in our hearts, to which we are also called in one body and to be thankful.

Peace starts at home too. I have learned peace by loving my family, friends and people around me. I can make peace come alive in my world by having enough knowledge and understanding that I need to keep myself strong in the face of conflicts or worries. I cannot be at peace with others if I am not at peace. I firmly believe that a lasting peace in my world will not be started politically, but it will begin first in the hearts and minds of each of us. I need to make happiness and peace within myself in order to share it with others. I need to create a positive attitude. It may be difficult for me to make peace come alive in my world by being a person who can forgive people, so that my world will be in peace and my life would be also in peace.

We must not dwell in the past regardless of the pain and sufferings we have been through because it is hard for us to move on but instead, concentrate on the present moment. I would be so happy if I could have a world that is peaceful where everyone is united despite the differences. I will be amazed on how I made peace come alive in my world. I have managed to find some sense of peace within myself now so I need to share that peace with others. Without peace there can be no happiness.

Third Place Winner

By Ma. Isabela Agawin

Third Year – St Bonaventure, Lourdes College, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City

I love it every time my mom prepares my favorite sandwich for breakfast. Just the taste of the sweet orange marmalade that combines with the creaminess of the butter and the softness of the bread, gives me the perfect start to my day. Every bite of my mom’s scrumptious sandwich brings me comfort, love and happiness.

You know, I would describe peace like the making of my mom’s sandwich. I must spread peace like jam to the world. But first, I must be at peace with myself. How? By accepting and forgiving myself. My loving me, the way my parents love me, the way Jesus loves me. Then, like jam, I spread it evenly on the bread and share my sandwich with others. When others taste it, they too will love its sweetness. I’m sure they will have their fill and soon will make their own sandwich, not necessarily an orange-butter marmalade one like mine. It could be anything that comes from the heart.

Yet, peace is contagious but evasive. Yes, it can easily be spread and shared, but it can also disappear into thin air, especially if it is sought out by wrong hearts. Sometimes, the simplest of hearts are the ones lucky to have peace. They are the ones easy to please, willing to forgive and forget. They are the ones who accept people the way they are and not the things they possess.

In my own way, I start by forgiving and accepting others, and loving them the way they are. I give my sandwich with a smile, with love. Shall we make a sandwich together?

Consolation Prize A

How to Make Peace Come Alive in My World

By Mary Michie A. Gambe
Fourth Year, Rosevale School, Xavier Estates, Cagayan de Oro City

In the big and confused world today, people make their own notions of peace. Many of us think that when peace is achieved, there will be no more wars, suffering, misunderstandings, etc. because people learn to love and understand each other.

In the duration of the fifteen years of my life, I have heard many sermons and talks, some of which came from my parents, on many subjects with contrasting views of people about them. I was particularly struck by what my dad said in one of his talks. He once mentioned that as a lawyer he has all sorts of clients – that is, some rich, some poor, some young, some old, some healthy and some ailing. He observed that some of his rich clients are happy but there are also rich clients who are disturbed and restless because they still want to make more money. I also hear comments from others that the rich still worry because they fear that they might lose their money, or that they simply have problems about how to spend their money.

According to my dad there are poor and ordinary people who are happy and contented with what they have and what they are. But, there are also poor people who never cease to grumble and to blame others, the government and even the Church for their poverty and misery.

There are also people, young as they are, who are already weighed down by seemingly insurmountable problems. In contrast, there are old and sickly people who do not seem to mind the pain and suffering that they are going through, and are still able to maintain a happy disposition. There are sick persons who are happy and those who are sad.

In all these different situations mentioned my dad said there is one thing he observed: those who are happy are at peace. The secret? They had placed God at the center of their lives, communicated with Him and placed their faith and absolute trust in Him.

Come to think of it, we all get our fair share of suffering, temptations and sins. Even Christ Himself was not spared of pain and suffering when He was crucified and died on the cross. But, if we put all our faith and trust in the Lord, knowing full well that He is in control, nothing can go wrong. We can then have peace.

When I first began thinking about peace, I was so confused. At that time, I did not know what peace really was. Then I started to ponder about the things my parents said and the things that happened around me. Then I realized that truly peace can be achieved if we place God at the center of our lives. This does not mean that we will not suffer, that there will not be any more obstacles in our path. We are at peace because we know that whatever comes our way, God allows it for a good reason always. We know that even if everyone else fails us, God never will. This, for me, is the true essence of peace.

How to ‘walk my talk’ will always be the most crucial part in my life as a Christian, that is, to live by my words and flesh it out into action. I believe and I pray to continuously strive to live my life virtuously as a teenager observing the values of chastity, respecting my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit to exert a positive influence on my fellow teenagers. This way I will have peace of mind, body and spirit.

Sadly, in the world today, pressure of society especially the media, tends to push teenagers like me to ‘just do it’ by a leading brand, or ‘obey your thirst,’ or ‘NO FEAR’ etc. These may encourage us teenagers to go overboard, disregarding the bounds of decency and morality to ‘express yourself’ or myself and yield to animalistic instincts and thus desecrate the ‘temple of the Holy Spirit’.

Peace is being in a state of grace. Come hell or high water, with God always in my heart, I will have peace.

Consolation Prize B

My child, my child, stop!

By Krixia Zhienelle A. Subingsubing
Third Year – St Augustine, St Paul College of Makati, Makati City

He ran around wildly, tears streaking down his face relentlessly. Not knowing where to go or what to do, he ran even faster, in hopes of finding someone or something to tell him what to do. As he was about to collapse, a young man dressed in fine silk purple robes cam up to him and said, ‘My child, my child, stop!’

Humans are complex beings. Our hearts are filled with selfish desires and egoistic designs. Our minds are closed upon themselves, feeding on their own ideas alone, thinking that any other idea opposed to ours is inferior and should be subject to rethinking. Our eyes are keen on looking out for imperfections and flaws. We are never contented, never satisfied, never at peace.

Some people are so blinded by the mad rush for acquiring greater wealth. Their desires, ambitions, and the will to accumulate as much as they are able urge them to run again and again – until they have forgotten what they wanted in the first place. They wallow so deeply in the need to succeed that they drown themselves in perpetual restlessness.

Since our hearts long for more, we run blindly in circles, finding nothing, because we do not know what we are looking for. Solicitude for amassing wealth and anxiety over preserving it denies one repose and serenity. We stretch ourselves further and further until the ends snap and we recoil upon ourselves. How ironic, it seems, that we rave for things we do not truly need. The ephemeral things like riches, fame, and recognition do not fill the empty spaces in our souls – instead, they only create more space for worry and stress, doing little to assuage the longing in our hearts.

How ironic too, that the person we often forget is the person who will save us from being bereft of peace.

Jesus tells us to stop and rethink for a while. It is more helpful for us to reflect and rethink than to embrace the sinful urgings of the world. He tells us not to lust with our eyes and hearts for earthly things that do not last forever. He tells us to stop making things complicated for ourselves – they make us forget when or where or how to stop. If we are in conflict with ourselves in trying to attain self-seeking and egoistic ideals in life, we will always be a prisoner in our own traps.

Jesus does not want us to deny ourselves of pleasure. He merely wants us to enjoy the simple things in life. He wants us to go back to moments when butterflies made our day and candies made us happy. He wants us to experience once more the richness and fullness of life we have lost as we grow older. The youth have always been close to Jesus’ heart, and he does not want them to suffer a hard life. He wants them away from anything that triggers them to sin, and he wants to keep them safe from the deadly lures of possession, power, envy, jealousy, pride and resentment.

Jesus wants us to stop seeking corporeal possessions. He wants us to invite peace into our hearts. For when a heart is not yet ready to stop trying to gratify itself, it will not know the joy of experiencing real peace.

Jimi Hendrix once said, ‘When the power of love conquers the love for power, the world will know peace.’

My child, stop running. I am what you are looking for.

Consolation Prize C

A PEACE OF MY PEACE

By Kelly Stan L. Fausto
Third Year – Ampan Carbonell, Mary Help of Christians School, Mabiga, Mabalacat, Pampanga

How can I make peace in this world happen? That’s a very tough question. Donating a million pesos, traveling around the world to help every citizen, and to build houses for the homeless. That’s a very good idea, but I suppose not everyone could do that, neither could I. Everyone could help and there are many reason to do so. Feeling miserable and facing a lot of conflicts in life is not an option for you to not consider what other people feel. You need to stay put and to make things better in a way that you help not only yourself, but everyone else also. But peace doesn’t require the hardest things and the agony that you go through. It needs the best that is in you.

You can make peace in your own little way by making friends with everyone. You can help people, more likely your friends or your family, by helping them in what they are doing, or accompanying them to the places where they need to go to. Always be available to everyone especially in times of trouble, or whenever they need a shoulder to cry on. Be nice and humble to everyone. Appreciate everything that people give you because they too, think that you’re special. But, don’t be too greedy and don’t act as a ‘parasite’ who always depends on people for certain needs. Be generous and thoughtful. The amount you give doesn’t really matter; it is your generosity that counts. Always show kindness to everyone. Remember, everyone deserves respect. Be friendly, and always greet everyone even the ones that you don’t know. A smile can brighten up a person’s day and will make the person think that somebody cares.

Treating your enemies as friends may not be an easy thing to do, but it’s the best choice, though.

Avoid being involved in fights and in starting fights. Look at others, smile at them, and say sorry for the horrible things that happened in the past, because past is past, and everyone deserves a second chance. And besides, if everyone has a negative side, everyone should have a positive side.

Nobody’s perfect. You couldn’t just change a person’s attitude unless they realize what they are doing and that because they probably wouldn’t care at the start. Have patience. It’s not very easy for a person to let go of something that they have been with for a very long time.

Sometimes, we think of our enemies as bad and mean people . . . but no, we don’t really know who they are, that is because, we don’t get the chance to talk to them and that we always look at their negative sides which will definitely not work out. It makes thing worse instead. It’s totally the opposite of friendship. You and your friend always stick to each other so you know each other very well, know each other’s talents, and you admire each other for that. Have you ever thought of that happening to you and your enemy? Look at the bright side and, who knows, you and your enemy might turn out to be friends.

Don’t have too much pride and be the first one to get things straight. You know you’re better, right?

The real loser is the one who doesn’t care about the people around, the one who’s selfish, insensitive, careless, and the one who is too proud of himself. Have the courage to get out there and to do well. Do your best at everything and encourage everyone to do the same. People would be happy to see you doing well. You would finally feel that you were a winner after all.

Have faith in yourself, and everything will be possible for as long as you think it would be. I promise, you will not regret anything and you will feel that you are the luckiest person on earth. You are lucky for you are given an opportunity to help people and to make them happy. You will truly attain the genuine happiness that you deserve.

Consolation Prize D

Making the World’s Dream Come True

By Arielle Angelique S. Cruz
Fourth Year – St Helena, St Scholastica’s Academy, Bacolod City

The world has always dreamt of peace. It is the one thing that people miles apart have longed for since the time they could think. The thought of a planet brought together in harmony and understanding is what urges those in power and wisdom to move and put it into solid reality.

Many plans have been announced, several ideas have been suggested, and numerous attempts have been tried. But after all of that, there is still no total peace. The world is still divided and broken. One would ask, ‘Why is this so? Are there not enough resources to make it work? Is there a misunderstanding among those who are assigned to do it?’ Peace should not be too difficult to create, so why is it not here yet?

Perhaps the reason is that the concept of peace itself is not clear. Its meaning may not have been grasped entirely. It is said that ‘One cannot achieve what one does not understand’. If this is why peace is absent in this physical world, clarifying it might make things much easier.

Peace is said to be a state of tranquility, as well as the absence of war. In a religious view, it is a deep connection with God and with all men. In this form of connection, there is no disturbance or blockade. Peace collectively is defined as a state of complete balance, harmony, and understanding between the Supreme Being, and every other human with each other.

Now that peace appears simpler and more possible than it had been earlier, it even looks easy enough for the young to make real. Since we, the youth, are the hope of the future, we can make a big difference. If we can materialize peace, we can save many lives. We can make a brighter tomorrow.

We can bring peace to life. It is quite simple to do. If we all conform, the world can become a better place. We do not need much to create it. There is no need for big conference rooms and expensive gifts. All we will need is an open mind and heart. We require a mind that can accept the thoughts and opinions of others. We need a heart that can love, forgive and empathize with anyone.

Little acts of kindness can become sparks that would spread the message of peace like wildfire. It sets examples for others to follow. Being able to get along with all kinds of people is another way to create it. There is a need for all of us to accept the differences of each individual. We need to give everyone an ear they can talk to, a shoulder to cry on, arms to receive hugs from, and a friend to support them. If all people receive these, conflict and suffering would greatly decrease. There would be less reason to fight and more reason to love.

Each person deserves respect. They have rights that allow them to live freely and safely. We are not supposed to violate them. In doing so, we also secure ourselves, knowing that others will not disregarded or ignored. Human dignity is another thing that we must respect. A person’s worth in this sense in inborn and it cannot be taken away. We should not treat anyone as if they are nothing and have no significance. God has given all of us dignity which means all have a purpose and importance. Knowing this, we should treat each other equally.

It is now clear that peace is achievable in very easy ways. Accepting, loving and respecting each person without exception are the best ways to bring peace to life. If all the people in the world would willingly do these, world peace would definitely become a reality. These simple, everyday acts could be done by anyone and their benefits will serve everyone.

Peace is a dream the world saw in their sleep. With hard work and determination, that dream will come true.

Consolation Prize E

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Angeline Clarisse Pasinabo

Grade 9 – St Augustine, La Consolacion College - Integrated School, Bacolod City

Peace is defined as the absence of war or hostilities. It is something that is needed but cannot still be attained until now. It is essential in our world today in establishing a safe and secured community where we could live in harmony together. It is a vital ingredient for a nation to become productive and progressive.

I believe that the first thing for me to do in order to make peace come alive in my world is to have peace of mind.

Having peace of mind is the most difficult, even the last thing, that a man will ever achieve in his life given the present times when everything seems so uncertain. Greed and lust for power are seemingly present everywhere. How will I ever have peace of mind, when I am living in a society wherein everybody loves a winner and losers are generally not accepted? I am in a world where failing is not an option and definitely condemned. Nobody would want to commit mistakes because the people who make mistakes are being punished regardless whether or not they are intentional. It is as if life is made up of winners and losers alone and there exists no middle ground. Despite the fact we actually learn from our mistakes, we are being punished for committing the same. Thus, I believe, I have to prepare myself for the consequences of failing and committing mistakes so I may be able to erase apprehensions and anxieties that beset my mind about the uncertain future. I must be ready for people who will mock my failures and ridicule me for my mistakes. I should not expect that they will praise me for trying and failing even though to try and fail is better than not trying at all. Further, I should be ready to take full responsibility for my mistakes as I am willing to take the accolades for my success.

The next thing in achieving peace is that it should start within us and towards others. As the saying of Tenzin Gyatso goes, ‘If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another’. He states that to achieve peace we must be willing to give peace to others, not just by ending conflicts but also coping with all the chaos that is happening all around us. We cannot afford to be just sideline spectators and watch the world fall. We must do something to see that the world is in order. The purpose of the Lord is that he wanted us to live together in accord and peace and not thinking of how we look like and of how diversely we all think of life.

An anonymous writer once quoted on peace said, ‘Peace – it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in a midst of those things and still be calm in your heart’. The writer meant that peace can be seen in many ways. It can be experienced in a lot of ways, too. The only thing that we should know is that we must follow the way of peace. We must abandon hatred and evil. We must learn to forgive others regardless of the intensity of the sin. Holding back on forgiving hinders us from attaining the true essence of harmony. If peace is not present in our minds and souls, it is no use to have life. To be alive gives the perspective of freedom and liberty. And true freedom can never be achieved without peace. After all, we were created by God through love.

Further, nothing happens in this world without a cause and reason to behold but to make peace come alive in my world, I dare to rail, for the true measure of one’s success is not in the number of distinctions and rewards one has earned nor on how much wealth one has amassed during one’s lifetime, but on how one has carried the fight to the end in the midst of all adversities. Failures should not be taken as a stumbling block but as a stepping stone to success.

Above all, living at peace with the Lord as the center of my life, I find the true meaning of my existence. For whatever I do, I do it for the greater glory of God.

Consolation Prize F

A Walk to Remember

By Val Amiel Vestil
Third Year – Einstein, Liceo de Cagayan University High School, Cagayan de Oro City

Every time I think about having a tête-à-tête with Jesus, I remember the story called Footsteps in the Sand by Mary Stevenson – I always see myself walking along the shore with Christ, amidst a vast land full of golden-colored waves that crash on the shore, and the magnificent sunset about to rest for the day. But today, a rather special and unique topic is what Jesus and I talked about. I asked him one question – ‘How can I make peace come alive in my world, Jesus?’ He merely smiled and said, ‘What do you think?’

As we walked along the shore, wondering if the walk would ever end, something struck me then and there. I thought that peace is a mere reflection of who I am. It is just right there, inside of me, trapped in my world, waiting to get out. But the problem is, how can I make it come alive? I’m just a mere teenager who goes along with this world, waiting for something miraculous to happen. And that is where the levels of ‘P-E-A-C-E’ come in, where P stands for Personal Maturity, E stands for Emotions, A stands for Acts of kindness, C stands for Camaraderie, and E stands for Evangelism. And so we continued on the journey.

Peace, I believe, starts within us. This is what I call – inner peace; personal maturity. ‘How can you gain such peace, Val?’ Jesus asked me. To start off, I have to be mature both inside and out. What is the connection between maturity and peace? Well, you start gaining peace when you are aware of who and what you are. Self-awareness comes with maturity and thus leads you to inner peace. That leads me to talk more in-depth details about inner peace which is fortunately the next letter, ‘E’.

In the word P-E-A-C-E, E stands for Emotions. All peace actually starts from our own emotions. In fact it starts from every single newborn baby, every playful child, every daring teenager, every hardworking adult, every aging senior. Think about this: if we have control of our emotions when in tough times, we learn to look on things from the brighter perspective. On the other hand, if we have no control over our emotions, we tend to look at problems as a great ordeal, and then possibly go mad about it. The word ‘mad’ may seemingly be a miniscule and harmless word, but with all the combined ‘mad’ people in the world, this will cause a horrid battle; a battle which will contradict with peace itself.

When we think about peace, we always think of good deeds done by heroes. We too can be heroes in our own way by doing Acts of kindness, which is the meaning of the letter ‘A’ in P-E-A-C-E whether it is at home, in school, in the country, or all over the world, Acts of kindness should know no bounds. Acts of kindness can go to helping Kuya with his love life, helping your classmate learn the lesson in Mathematics, or simply thanking the teacher for the lesson after the class. If we develop such acts of kindness, surely peace will come into our lives.

Now that we have promoted Acts of kindness to every person we meet, we then instinctively learn to practice Camaraderie, which is C in the word P-E-A-C-E. Camaraderie simply means gaining the trust and friendship of every single leap of faith. Multiple leaps will not only bring forth peace in the world, but peace in ourselves as well.

Jesus stopped walking and I halted as well. I wondered why we stopped, for I didn’t see any signs of life on the beach except for the marine animals that live in it. Jesus said slowly, There you go; you have answered your own question. I have guided you to the right path; it is now your time to move onwards’. He then disappeared slowly as if the wind was eating him up. I then reflected – peace isn’t just a word that we encounter in our life; it’s a way of life no man could live without. That walk with Jesus was such a walk to remember.

Consolation Prize G

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Jessa Mae Margallo
First Year – Gauss, Liceo de Cagayan University High School, Cagayan de Oro City

Don’t ask what the world needs
Ask what makes you come alive,
And go do it!
Because what the world needs
Is people who come alive!!! (Howard Thurman)

‘What should I do to help make the world a better place? There seem to be so many problems we face; don’t know what I should do.’

It is my belief we all have activities that make us come alive.

And when we are engaging in those activities we are giving back to the world.

When we are doing the activity that makes us feel alive, we are more joyful, in touch, peaceful and in tune with ourselves and the world around us.

Being alive allows us to be the best we can be and therefore make the world the best it can be. PLUS when we are engaging in an activity that fills us with passion we are engaging our inner spirit, our intuitive selves. We are living from a place of wholeness and passion.

Peace comes not from the absence of trouble, but from the presence of God.

Still we are all tempted to say: ‘It is all an idle dream, this hope of peace – a foolish bit of fancy that has taunted humanity through all the centuries and never really comes alive’.

We hope for a day when family members will respect the sanctity of the home and the quality of human life.

We hoe for a day when governments will rule with integrity, honesty.

When we as individuals are at peace with God and within ourselves, only then can we promote and proclaim true peace to the whole world and justice.

True peace should be based on justice and equality for all, regardless of ethnicity, intellect, educational qualifications, social status, age, or gender.

It means an acknowledgement and recognition not only of our own worth, but also that of others.

Whatever is said or done should inspire and promote that peace: not gossip, not the demoralization of others, not discrimination, not confusion, not hatred, not exploitation or oppression.

The search for true peace begins with each individual.

When such peace dwells within the life of each one, there can still be hope for peace among all people in the world, especially among those who are marginalized and broken. There is no doubt that we live in a world of great darkness, where weapons are unbelievably destructive, and hatred is unmistakably strong.

Thus, the hope of peace and goodwill is the deepest longing and need of humanity.

We hope for a day when wars will end, when nations will dwell together in unity, when justice, righteousness, and freedom will prevail.

One major difference is that today there is no shortage of advice on how to gain peace of mind.

I will pray to God that Peace will be spread all over the world so that many people will be enhanced to do good things.

Consolation Prize H

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Johnray S. Asiñero
Fourth Year – St John Vianney, Sacred Heart Academy, Bugo, Cagayan de Oro City

The world is a kaleidoscopic orb engineered by the Almighty God. It is a paradigm of an exquisite creation, an extraordinary world of blues and greens as seen from afar. Alongside this enormous creation is a sad fact that continuously threatens the brilliance of this variegated world. The world is threatened to be eclipsed with darkness as PEACE is obscured and as civil unrest causes massive afflictions to the people. The ingress of this inauspicious problem is rooted in deep misconceptions of our true moral obligations as humans – to respect each person’s dignity, to set up strong relationships and to act justly on these.

Nowadays, people have different interpretations of peace. Most say that peace is the absence of war or conflict. But, beyond this simple word is an innate and profound drift of life. Peace is the satiety of life. It is establishing a concordant relationship with the people and God. It is about giving due deference to the person’s respectability and understanding its crucial role in designing an ideal home for all. Accentuating the indispensable importance of social order in this world is to contribute in rekindling world peace, grounded in devout principles that our Savior taught us, despite social tumult.

As I search for further enlightenment, a sad picture crosses my mind. The picture of our modern society distressed with corruption, discrimination and innumerable human rights violations. Today’s view of society represents an annihilation of human morality as abuse in power and uncontrolled human rights violence proliferates. These certain acts overlook the entity of true peace in the context of human freedom.

I came to realize the importance of justice in attaining true peace, a justice equated with respect for human dignity and rights. Peace is grounded in justice and it is only through it that we can establish a formidable relationship, cordial ties which are the prerequisite for initiating a strong foundation for peace.

Moreover, the trudge for peace cannot be realized if I am not fully committed to bringing inner peace to every individual. That’s why as an advocate of peace I am called to develop a sense of social responsibility which plays a substantial role in realizing peace in this world. I am accountable for our society’s welfare and I have the responsibility to preserve each person’s dignity as I preserve mine too. Additionally, indulging myself in beneficent activities promoting social inclusion among impoverished people is a great start in restructuring the framework of authentic peace. It is important to show our deep commiseration, compassion and acceptance in order to embrace them whole-heartedly.

I can still remember the day when we brought sweet delights to the less fortunate children in our place. It was December 2009 when the Venerable Catherine McAuley Club planned to reach out to those children who are financially crippled. These children were out of school and at their age they could not read or write. Our hearts were moved after we saw their present condition. Seeing those children smile in our presence was truly satisfactory. Through it was hard on our part, we were proud that through our own little ways, we had imparted special things to them.

Indeed, the call for social responsibility really comes in my willingness to commit myself and help our neighbors. Through peregrinations, Jesus enlightened the torch to brighten our path. The dynamic indulgence of Jesus in helping the needy is an inspiration for me to help these people. Through the multifaceted gifts that are endowed to us by God I as a promoter of peace must use these to arouse the spirit of ‘bayanihan’ to stir up the hearts of every people to work hand-in-hand in achieving this goal. Practically, I am summoned to be fully committed in helping our neighbors. I should straightaway help them. I would dare myself to be socially close to those who are marginalized. They are entitled to have the right to live in this world and I should respect that fact. I should not judge them for who they are but on what they have done in making this world complete. Let us all remember that to God, everyone is equal. No superior, no inferior.

Truly, achieving Peace is a long-time process. It doesn’t come in an instant of time. It takes time to build peace in our world. Through God’s intervention and graces, I am confident enough that we are at the threshold of genuine Peace. What we need now is constant change. As an advocate of peace I am called to uphold Justice and Equality. I have the social responsibility to help and uplift the present situation of the people who are enduring their downtrodden life. Jesus, as a perfect exemplar of peace, has said, ‘Love your neighbor as you love yourself’. I am indeed called to establish the strong foundation of peace through giving my heart to the needy, in accordance with the principles of Jesus Christ. Indeed, I am summoned to extinguish the societal gap which is a hitch in attaining Peace. Peace truly starts when we Persevere in Establishing Amiable Connection to Everyone.

The question now is, ‘Are you to be a pursuer of PEACE?’ If so, let us join hand-in-hand in groping the path towards achieving the zenith of world PEACE held through the teachings of Christ.

Consolation Prize I

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Alfred Benedict Bayan
Fourth Year – 1 (St Frances Xavier Cabrini), Saint Augustine’s School, Tagudin, Ilocos Sur

Shalom! Peace! Peace be with you! This is probably the most soothing greeting we can give to someone at all times. It is the greeting we give and receive at Mass before Holy Communion, and it is the same greeting that Jesus gave his apostles when He appeared to them in the Upper Room after His Resurrection. Is peace really that essential to one’s life? Is it necessary among people? Peace. It may be the word that is most spoken, but is it truly being pondered upon and lived out, or is it foreign in our world?

When I was small, my parents used to tell me and my siblings to be peaceful persons, to avoid quarrels whenever and wherever possible, to treat others fairly, to give due respect to and be in good terms with everyone. They reminded us then to reconcile immediately and be at peace with others when conflicts and misunderstanding arose. Now that I am a teenager, I recognize the impact of valuing peace at an early age and living it out at home and outside home. These times, I never encounter problems in dealing with others in my own little world and I feel at home with everyone I meet. Certainly, it is true that when we speak peaceful words which are eventually translated into actions, we broadcast a message of peace that vibrates throughout our minds and bodies. We are sending the message ‘Be at peace’ to ourselves and to everyone around us.

They say peace commences within oneself and its rippling effects will radiate to all concerns of the world. As St Francis of Assisi prayed, we need to be channels of peace. One story in the 1000 Stories divulges, why play war if you can play peace with others? But the only problem in the story is that in the end, the children became silent for they don’t now how to play peace. The world today is in dire need of peace – peace in every family, in workplaces, in small communities and peace with the environment. Undeniably, peace is not merely the absence of war and peace can’t be achieved without justice. The fair treatment and respect for others I was trained to put into practice at my young age must extend beyond just the little friendships I have.

What about my relationship with my country? With the natural world, the environment? My world is not just confined to my family, to school and to my neighborhood. I have to look at my bigger home, the planet earth.

Young as I am, I can contribute to the role of stewardship to preserve the earth from its unmitigated obliteration. I am taught that I am an earthling and thus, I should be an earth keeper. The simple practices of recycling, reducing, reusing and rejecting, if done faithfully, can be of much help in restoring the splendor and tranquility of Mother Earth. The sincere act of conserving water and energy manifests care for the earth.

Be at peace! Let it not remain in words, but let it radiate within and beyond our little worlds – at home, in school, in the community and in our planet earth.

I am and must be an active peacemaker in my own little ways. How? TRANSFORM every act of...

P ride to practicing humility in every way.

E nvy to appreciating and affirming the goodness and greatness of others.

A nger to accepting and forgiving others’ transgressions against me.

C onceit to recognizing the giftedness of each individual especially those considered ‘least’.

E xclusiveness to embracing everyone in my circle of friends and in my world of generous service.

Then and only then can I profess that I am Jesus’ disciple of peace worthy to greet everyone, ‘PEACE’, ‘SHALOM’.

Consolation Prize J

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Mika Angela C. Sareno
Second Year – St Bartholomew, Lourdes College, Basic Education Department, Cagayan de Oro City

I have a dream . . . a dream so majestic, so wonderful, yet, as a child, so hard to reach. A dream that utterly speaks of what I really want here on earth. A dream, when embossed in reality, could change millions of lives forever . . .

I dream of children playing happily under the sun, with big smiles painted on their faces, I dream of families boisterously laughing in joy and in love. I dream of my neighbors sharing and enjoying each other’s company. I dream of honest, kind and understanding people who are appreciating life, loving one another, loving God and loving nature. I dream of peace – peace within our hearts, peace within our minds, within our souls, and peace within our world.

See? My dream is amazing isn’t it?

However, when I open my eyes to reality and set my consciousness to the world I’m living in, my heart shatters into pieces and I sink into sadness, realizing that the world in reality is completely different from the world in my dream. So different and so cruel, that it hurts to know that dreams are better than reality.

Whereas in my dream, I see children happily playing, in reality, I see them being dragged away from their joys in life. Whereas in my dream, my heart lit up seeing families laughing in joy and in love, in reality, my heart bleeds seeing them broken and hopeless. Whereas in my dream, my ears savor the sounds of laughter, music, glee and harmony, in reality, my ears burn hearing the cries of the helpless, the weeping of the needy and the screams of the victims of cruelty. Whereas in my dream, I live in a world of justice, unity, calmness, serenity and peace, in reality, I live in a world of selfishness, corruption, terrorism, evil and anger.

The reality is like a battlefield, a red land of blood and tears and it is as if right now, I’m standing in the middle of a great war. Bombs of suffering and pain terrify me, bullets of hatred and violence hurt my being, and I can’t help but cover my ears, look away from the macabre scenes, pray, and silently ask myself, ‘How could they?’

There is no love. There is no unity. There is no peace.

That’s why as a child who has a heart and a motivation for change, I’m taking a stand in making my dream come true. As a radical stimulus, I will make the peace in my dream come alive in my world.

Beginning with little deeds at my home, in school and in my community, I will bring peace and show its true meaning. I would respect everyone – young and old, friend and stranger. I would respect their rights and decision, for I truly believe that when you respect someone, you will be given respect in return.

I would build a strong chain of friendship across the world through interacting with different people around the globe in social community sites like Facebook, Myspace and Twitter. Not only will I be able to make new friends, but I will also be able to contribute to the construction of world peace.

Moreover, I would sow seeds of understanding and kindness. I would not be aggressive, and would be friendly to my family, classmates, schoolmates, and even to the people in my community instead. I would bring sunshine on their rainy days and would make them smile always.

I would also practice honesty and courtesy at all times. I would be responsible, disciplined and would follow school and community rules and regulations. Especially, I would try my best to be a very good role model to everyone.

These deeds may be little as you can see, but if we will combine these together, they will make a big impact on change and on world peace.

With these little deeds, I know that I can inspire many. I can inspire and motivate the people around me to do these deeds as well, and if that happens, my dream will come true and eventually, we will grasp peace.

However, there is one more important deed that I would do to attain my dream and to make peace come alive. That important deed would be strengthening my faith in God. Everyday, I would pray to the Lord God to guide me in achieving my goal. I would pray that He will unite all of us and will transform us into better persons whose hearts are open for peace and for change.

Thus, I ask all of you, as my brothers and sisters here on Earth, to share with me my dream. I know that you too want a world so peaceful and calm. So please, help me in eradicating the anger in our world. All of us want to end this treacherous war, don’t we?

Together as one, let’s make my dream come true. Let’s make peace come alive so that all of our sufferings will end. It may be heard to reach but nothing’s impossible.

Unless we’ll help hand in hand in making peace come alive, my dream of world peace will remain a vision, a dream, never milled into reality.

Soon, peace will not only exist in my dream, but will also exist in my world here in reality. Soon, peace will come alive.

MONICA AND KRZYSZTOF

By Father Bobby Gilmore

This article was first published on the website of the Columbans in Ireland in December. Though Monica and Krzysztof are from Poland, their experience is similar to that of some Filipino couples in Ireland.

Birds stuck between two branches get bitten on both wings (Dinaw Mengestu)

Monica didn’t plan to migrate. She completed her local high school in Legnica and then attended university from which she graduated with a degree in building and construction. However, at the European Accession in 2004 when Poland became a full member of the European Union, Monica was free to seek an opportunity in any member state. She set out for London and for two years worked as an au pair and then as the manager of a bar. As she was beginning to adjust to life in London, feeling homesick, trying to cope with unfamiliar surroundings, food and language, her father took ill and died at home on Poland. This was a setback for Monica as it is for any immigrant caught between away and home. Daily, she wondered whether she should have been at home to support her mother and sisters and brother in caring for her father. Of course she visited and remitted some money to help them through a difficult period.

But she was caught between home and away. Her head was in London but her heart was in Poland with her father.

After two years in London and with a newfound confidence she decided to migrate to Ireland. She heard in the Polish migrant network that there were plenty of jobs in Ireland. She had not put down roots in London as she always intended to move on in a search to better herself. But there was an added attraction in her migrating to Ireland. In London she met a young migrant, Krzysztof (Cristoph) Stachowiak, Polish like herself from Posnan. They liked each other and fell in love. As he was leaving London to take up a job as a chef in Ireland, Monica decided to follow her heart. She arrived in Ireland as the Irish economy was going through the floor. However, she got a job as a waitress. Like all immigrants, Monica is prepared to take whatever opportunity arises and indeed, and like many immigrants, she is multi-skilled, not afraid of work.

As in London, Monica had to make adjustments to cope with living and working in Ireland. This time she was not alone in making those adjustments as Krzysztof was with her. He was going through similar experiences, trying to cope with nuances of Irish expression, seeking accommodation, learning different presentation of food, registering with the various government agency networks.

In September 2010, they decided to take holidays back home in Poland and like many immigrants trying to save money, they did a package deal. They got married in Monica’s home town. After combining honeymoon with visits to family and friends they returned to their jobs in Ireland and started to settle down, this time as a family unit.

Monica and Krzysztof, as single persons, found leaving home difficult. As a married couple they found it equally difficult. But they had each other’s support in dealing with it this time and they were returning to a situation in Ireland that they were becoming familiar with. But as Monica said herself, ‘We are gradually getting there because we had friends here and are making new friends, we are no longer strangers’.

But, like many immigrants in the present economic mess that Ireland is in they are hanging between home and away in a kind of liminal situation, betwixt and between. They feel that there is no great job security here but equally, there is nothing happening in Poland to draw them back there, even though that is really where they would like to be, at home with their families and friends, and particularly that pull increases as Christmas draws near. However, since they are both working at Christmas they have decided to go home to visit family and for a pre-Christmas holiday. They will return here just before Christmas. Monica says, ‘There is no place like home for Christmas, but the best we can do is be there in spirit’.
Both Monica and Krzysztof are Catholics. One of the soul-warming experiences for them is the monthly Mass by a Polish immigrant chaplain for the Polish community in the local town where they now live. According to them this is the highlight of the month. They feel at home in their own language, song and liturgy and with their fellow Poles. They say, ‘The Mass in English, even if basically the same, is different, they are not touched in the same way as in their own Polish Mass, but that may happen as time passes’.
Monica and Krzysztof are like the millions of immigrants that keep the global economy ticking over. They are trying to make a new home in a new, strange and insecure economic environment. They feel lucky that they have not purchased a house as they are not sure what the future holds for them and their jobs. This insecurity probably delays their settling down and making a new home in Ireland or Poland.

They are like Joseph, Mary and Jesus who had to leave home all those years ago and seek a life in Egypt. As immigrants they too were caught between home and away. They had to take whatever work was available in order to live and I am sure they had a strong desire to return which they did when the political situation changed.

Right now, Monica and Krzysztof are hoping that the economic situation remains stable so that they will be able to hold on to their jobs and later decide like Joseph and Mary whether to return to Poland or make their home in Ireland. Sooner or later they will decide. Maybe the message of Christmas will help them.
So Joseph got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel . . .

There he settled in a town called Nazareth (Mt.2-22).

The author is a Columban priest who has worked in Mindanao, in Jamaica and with Irish emigrants in Britain. He is now director of Migrants Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI).

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI FOR THE 97th WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES (2011)

Author:

Fr Bobby Gilmore SSC

Message Of His Holiness Benedict XVI For The 97th World Day Of Migrants And Refugees (2011)

"One human family"

World Day of Migrants and Refugees is observed on 16 January 2011. However, it is observed here in the Philippines on 13 March, the First Sunday of Advent. This message was published on 27 September 2010. Your editor does not understand why the Vatican issues such messages so far in advance. http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/messages/migration/documents/hf_ben-xvi_mes_20100927_world-migrants-day_en.html

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The World Day of Migrants and Refugees offers the whole Church an opportunity to reflect on a theme linked to the growing phenomenon of migration, to pray that hearts may open to Christian welcome and to the effort to increase in the world justice and charity, pillars on which to build an authentic and lasting peace. "As I have loved you, so you also should love one another" (Jn 13:34), is the invitation that the Lord forcefully addresses to us and renews us constantly: if the Father calls us to be beloved children in his dearly beloved Son, he also calls us to recognize each other as brothers and sisters in Christ.

This profound link between all human beings is the origin of the theme that I have chosen for our reflection this year: "One human family", one family of brothers and sisters in societies that are becoming ever more multiethnic and intercultural, where also people of various religions are urged to take part in dialogue, so that a serene and fruitful coexistence with respect for legitimate differences may be found. The Second Vatican Council affirms that "All peoples are one community and have one origin, because God caused the whole human race to dwell on the face of the earth (cf. Acts 17:26); they also have one final end, God" (Message for the World Day of Peace, 2008, 1). "His providence, His manifestations of goodness, His saving design extend to all men" (Declaration Nostra aetate, 1). Thus, "We do not live alongside one another purely by chance; all of us are progressing along a common path as men and women, and thus as brothers and sisters" (Message for the World Day of Peace, 2008, 6).

The road is the same, that of life, but the situations that we pass through on this route are different: many people have to face the difficult experience of migration in its various forms: internal or international, permanent or seasonal, economic or political, voluntary or forced. In various cases the departure from their Country is motivated by different forms of persecution, so that escape becomes necessary. Moreover, the phenomenon of globalization itself, characteristic of our epoch, is not only a social and economic process, but also entails "humanity itself [that] is becoming increasingly interconnected", crossing geographical and cultural boundaries. In this regard, the Church does not cease to recall that the deep sense of this epochal process and its fundamental ethical criterion are given by the unity of the human family and its development towards what is good (cf. Benedict XVI, Encyclical Caritas in veritate, 42). All, therefore, belong to one family, migrants and the local populations that welcome them, and all have the same right to enjoy the goods of the earth whose destination is universal, as the social doctrine of the Church teaches. It is here that solidarity and sharing are founded.

"In an increasingly globalized society, the common good and the effort to obtain it cannot fail to assume the dimensions of the whole human family, that is to say, the community of peoples and nations, in such a way as to shape the earthly cityin unity and peace, rendering it to some degree an anticipation and a prefiguration of the undivided city of God" (Benedict XVI, Encyclical Caritas in veritate, 7). This is also the perspective with which to look at the reality of migration. In fact, as the Servant of God Paul VI formerly noted, "the weakening of brotherly ties between individuals and nations" (Encyclical Populorum progressio, 66), is a profound cause of underdevelopment and – we may add – has a major impact on the migration phenomenon. Human brotherhood is the, at times surprising, experience of a relationship that unites, of a profound bond with the other, different from me, based on the simple fact of being human beings. Assumed and lived responsibly, it fosters a life of communion and sharing with all and in particular with migrants; it supports the gift of self to others, for their good, for the good of all, in the local, national and world political communities.

Venerable John Paul II, on the occasion of this same Day celebrated in 2001, emphasized that "[the universal common good] includes the whole family of peoples, beyond every nationalistic egoism. The right to emigrate must be considered in this context. The Church recognizes this right in every human person, in its dual aspect of the possibility to leave one’s country and the possibility to enter another country to look for better conditions of life" (Message for World Day of Migration 2001, 3; cf. John XXIII, Encyclical Mater et Magistra, 30; Paul VI, Encyclical Octogesima adveniens, 17). At the same time, States have the right to regulate migration flows and to defend their own frontiers, always guaranteeing the respect due to the dignity of each and every human person. Immigrants, moreover, have the duty to integrate into the host Country, respecting its laws and its national identity. "The challenge is to combine the welcome due to every human being, especially when in need, with a reckoning of what is necessary for both the local inhabitants and the new arrivals to live a dignified and peaceful life" (World Day of Peace 2001, 13).

In this context, the presence of the Church, as the People of God journeying through history among all the other peoples, is a source of trust and hope. Indeed the Church is "in Christ like a sacrament or as a sign and instrument both of a very closely knit union with God and of the unity of the whole human race" (Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, Dogmatic Constitution Lumen gentium, 1); and through the action within her of the Holy Spirit, "the effort to establish a universal brotherhood is not a hopeless one" (Idem, Pastoral Constitution Gaudium et spes, 38). It is the Holy Eucharist in particular that constitutes, in the heart of the Church, an inexhaustible source of communion for the whole of humanity. It is thanks to this that the People of God includes "every nation, race, people, and tongue" (Rev 7:9), not with a sort of sacred power but with the superior service of charity. In fact the exercise of charity, especially for the poorest and weakest, is the criterion that proves the authenticity of the Eucharistic celebration (cf. John Paul II, Apostolic Letter Mane nobiscum Domine, 28).

The situation of refugees and of the other forced migrants, who are an important part of the migration phenomenon, should be specifically considered in the light of the theme "One human family". For these people who flee from violence and persecution the International Community has taken on precise commitments. Respect of their rights, as well as the legitimate concern for security and social coherence, foster a stable and harmonious coexistence.

Also in the case of those who are forced to migrate, solidarity is nourished by the "reserve" of love that is born from considering ourselves a single human family and, for the Catholic faithful, members of the Mystical Body of Christ: in fact we find ourselves depending on each other, all responsible for our brothers and sisters in humanity and, for those who believe, in the faith. As I have already had the opportunity to say, "Welcoming refugees and giving them hospitality is for everyone an imperative gesture of human solidarity, so that they may not feel isolated because of intolerance and disinterest" (General Audience, 20 June 2007: Insegnamenti II, 1 [2007],1158). This means that those who are forced to leave their homes or their country will be helped to find a place where they may live in peace and safety, where they may work and take on the rights and duties that exist in the Country that welcomes them, contributing to the common good and without forgetting the religious dimension of life.

Lastly, I would like to address a special thought, again accompanied by prayer, to the foreign and international students who are also a growing reality within the great migration phenomenon. This, as well, is a socially important category with a view to their return, as future leaders, to their Countries of origin. They constitute cultural and economic "bridges" between these Countries and the host Countries, and all this goes precisely in the direction of forming "one human family". This is the conviction that must support the commitment to foreign students and must accompany attention to their practical problems, such as financial difficulties or the hardship of feeling alone in facing a very different social and university context, as well as the difficulties of integration. In this regard, I would like to recall that "to belong to a university community… is to stand at the crossroads of the cultures that have formed the modern world" (John Paul II, To the Bishops of the United States of America of the Ecclesiastical Provinces of Chicago, Indianapolis and Milwaukee on their ad limina visit, 30 May 1998, 6: Insegnamenti XXI, 1 [1998] 1116). At school and at university the culture of the new generations is formed: their capacity to see humanity as a family called to be united in diversity largely depends on these institutions.

Dear brothers and sisters, the world of migrants is vast and diversified. It knows wonderful and promising experiences, as well as, unfortunately, so many others that are tragic and unworthy of the human being and of societies that claim to be civil. For the Church this reality constitutes an eloquent sign of our times which further highlights humanity’s vocation to form one family, and, at the same time, the difficulties which, instead of uniting it, divide it and tear it apart. Let us not lose hope and let us together pray God, the Father of all, to help us – each in the first person – to be men and women capable of brotherly relationships and, at the social, political and institutional levels, so that understanding and reciprocal esteem among peoples and cultures may increase. With these hopes, as I invoke the intercession of Mary Most Holy, Stella Maris, I cordially impart the Apostolic Blessing to all and, especially, to migrants and refugees and to everyone who works in this important field.

From Castel Gandolfo, 27 September 2010

BENEDICTUS PP. XVI

Our Hideaway

I Am Here

by Raul Espenocilla

Do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself
Said by my brother Jesus to the person with anxiety and distress.
For whoever who believes in Him shall not perish but shall continue to exist
In this world of love where people with pure hearts are holy and blest.

Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you shall find
Knock unto him and the door of happiness will be found.
In the darkness of your soul where light seldom sparks
His arms welcome you, ‘I am with you always until the very end of time’.

Confusions keep me away from Him, hurts in me; it’s He I often blame;
Problems of life, as if the whole world has put me to shame.
But He said again, Remain in me and I will remain in you.
Says the Lord, Let me live and I will live in you.

When I am thirsty and my body becomes hungry
I blame the Lord, for He does not provide for my necessities.
He said, ‘Look at the birds in the sky, they are fed by me’
Ask yourself, Are you not much more valuable than they?

Now, I am not afraid to walk in the darkest night
For His love is my guiding light, it strengthens me, it keeps me alive.
If I have troubles I take courage for He has already conquered the world,
A foundation for you and me to tell everyone how much He has loved us all.

The author may be emailed at reesp23@yahoo.com

Author:

Raul Espenocilla

Peace By Peace

The family, the school of freedom and peace

The Holy Family with a Bird, 1650, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

If religious freedom is the path to peace, religious education is the highway which leads new generations to see others as their brothers and sisters, with whom they are called to journey and work together so that all will feel that they are living members of the one human family, from which no one is to be excluded.

The family founded on marriage, as the expression of the close union and complementarity between a man and a woman, finds its place here as the first school for the social, cultural, moral and spiritual formation and growth of children, who should always be able to see in their father and mother the first witnesses of a life directed to the pursuit of truth and the love of God. Parents must be always free to transmit to their children, responsibly and without constraints, their heritage of faith, values and culture. The family, the first cell of human society, remains the primary training ground for harmonious relations at every level of coexistence, human, national and international. Wisdom suggests that this is the road to building a strong and fraternal social fabric, in which young people can be prepared to assume their proper responsibilities in life, in a free society, and in a spirit of understanding and peace.

Religious Freedom, The Path to Peace, Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the Celebration of the World Day of Peace, 1 January 2011. The full text of Pope Benedict’s message is here.

The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the Blessed Sacrament.

Brother Lawrence, Carmelite Lay Brother (1611-1691)

The way of peace is really a seamless garment that must cover the whole of life and must be applied in all its relationships.

A.J. Muste, Peacemaker (1885-1967)

Chekhov aged 29

We shall find peace. We shall hear angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds.

Anton Chekhov (1860–1904)

Learning is finding out what you already know. Doing is demonstrating that you know it. Teaching is reminding others that they know just as well as you. We are all learners, doers, teachers.

Richard Bach (Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah)

Lead, Kindly Light

Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom,
Lead Thou me on!
The night is dark, and I am far from home—
Lead Thou me on!
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see
The distant scene—one step enough for me.

I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou
Shouldst lead me on.
I loved to choose and see my path; but now,
Lead Thou me on!
I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears,
Pride ruled my will: remember not past years.

So long Thy power hath blessed me, sure it still
Will lead me on,
O'er moor and fen, o'er crag and torrent, till
The night is gone;
And with the morn those angel faces smile
Which I have loved long since, and lost awhile.

Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman (1801–1890)

*Watch the video of Welsh singer Aled Jones singing Lead, Kindly Light here. You may also like the version of the Wells Cathedral Choir.

Your Turn

A Thousand Words

By Lucille Arcedas

I had always wanted to make a comment on the article What’s in a Photo but I find myself incapable of doing a just description of it. I’m glad that Richelle Verdeprado and Joy Rile made impressive comments about it. On the picture after it, I’m also delighted to see Fr Leo Donnelly with some of his parishioners. Their smiles are vibrant and speak of a great community life with their pastor. Marife Padao’s photos are also striking as she describes the fulfillment of her dreams. Fr Gary Walker has collected gorgeous smiles of people who find refuge in each other’s presence. Interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence are depicted by Corazon Mendoza’s pictures; my spirit of patriotism has been enkindled by Gelkoff Calmerin’s pictures by the presence of our flag while Alma Pangsiw's picture (Our Hideaway) really left a mark on me.

I enjoy taking pictures. I post lots of them on my Friendster. This new habit just occurred when I arrived here probably because I will be spending a short time and I want to keep my memories intact. But beyond remembrance, I never thought that taking pictures can lead to friendships. When I attended a three-day intensive course, I took our group and class picture then sent them to my classmates and teacher. I received responses that such simple action created a big impact to them.

More than just keeping memories, photos keep hearts together.

Lucille Arcedas, from Kabanakalan City, Negros Occidental, is studying at present at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. You may email Lucille at la252@cornell.edu .

Author:

Lucille Arcedas

Misyon Online - January-February 2011

Pulong ng Editor

His Home in Negros

Integral Evangelization by the Columbans in Negros

‘Come after me and I will make you fishers of men’ (Mark 1:17)

From Iligan to Vilvoorde

MONICA AND KRZYSZTOF

Pulong ng Editor

From Iligan To Vilvoorde

His Home In Negros

Integral Evangelization By The Columbans In Negros

MISYON Student Essay Contest 2010 WINNERS

Congratulations to the following winners of MISYON Student Essay Contest 2010

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

10 CONSOLATION PRIZES

First Place Winner

Second Place Winner

How can I make peace come alive in my world?

Third Place Winner

Consolation Prize A

How to Make Peace Come Alive in My World

Consolation Prize B

My child, my child, stop!

Consolation Prize C

A PEACE OF MY PEACE

Consolation Prize D

Making the World’s Dream Come True

Consolation Prize E

Consolation Prize F

A Walk to Remember

Consolation Prize G

Consolation Prize H

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Johnray S. Asiñero Fourth Year – St John Vianney, Sacred Heart Academy, Bugo, Cagayan de Oro City

Consolation Prize I

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Alfred Benedict Bayan Fourth Year – 1 (St Frances Xavier Cabrini), Saint Augustine’s School, Tagudin, Ilocos Sur

Consolation Prize J

How Can I Make Peace Come Alive in My World?

By Mika Angela C. Sareno Second Year – St Bartholomew, Lourdes College, Basic Education Department, Cagayan de Oro City

MONICA AND KRZYSZTOF

By Father Bobby Gilmore

Birds stuck between two branches get bitten on both wings (Dinaw Mengestu)

Message Of His Holiness Benedict XVI For The 97th World Day Of Migrants And Refugees (2011)

"One human family"

Our Hideaway

I Am Here

Peace By Peace

The family, the school of freedom and peace

Your Turn

A Thousand Words

Congratulations to the following winners of
MISYON Student Essay Contest 2010

By Johnray S. Asiñero
Fourth Year – St John Vianney, Sacred Heart Academy, Bugo, Cagayan de Oro City

By Alfred Benedict Bayan
Fourth Year – 1 (St Frances Xavier Cabrini), Saint Augustine’s School, Tagudin, Ilocos Sur

By Mika Angela C. Sareno
Second Year – St Bartholomew, Lourdes College, Basic Education Department, Cagayan de Oro City