Our Lady of Fatima Parish

Msgr. Rene focuses on a transformed leadership

2010-05-14T09:06:00.011+08:00

Msgr. Reynaldo Mabute, vicar general of the diocese focuses on a transformed leadership as he says mass on the last day of the novena-mass in honor of our Lady, as he shares his thoughts on the theme, "At the Wedding at Cana: Transforming Leadership in the Community of Disciples."

Joining Msgr. Rene are the following:

Commentator: Adolfo Fajardo

Lector: Violeta Dedase

Eucharistic Ministers: Bros. Dan Delgado and Dan Funelas

Lead Sponsor: All religious organizations

Sponsoring Kapilya: Bibincahan East and Gabao Ibaba KPC

Lead Choir: LWCC Choir

It's Fr. Arje's turn on the 8th day

2010-05-13T11:51:00.007+08:00

Fr. Jose Arje L. Flestado celebrated the mass on the 8th day and in his homily shared his thoughts on the theme, "At the Wedding at Cana: Becoming Church of the Poor."

Commentator: Nikki Sipoy

Lector: Dharen Caballero

Eucharistic Ministers: Bros. Romy Solano and Ruben Vitug

Lead Commission: Commission on Youth

Sponsoring Kapilya: OLV-St. Vincent and Baribag KPC

Lead Choir: OLV Kapilya Choir

Novena prayers are said before the mass with Rica Lacson and Ofie Velasco alternately leading.

Fr. Chrisly is main celebrant on the 7th day

2010-05-12T22:58:00.007+08:00

Fr. Jose Chrisly B. Ereño shares four significant points to explain the theme: "At the Finding of Jesus: Cost of Discipleship," in his homily on the 7th day of the novena-mass in honor of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima.

Those who took part in the mass are as follows:

Commentator: Norma Caguia

Lector: Siory de Vera

Eucharistic Ministers: Bros. Ruben Vitug and Romy Solano

Lead Commission: Commission on Education

Sponsoring Kapilya: Cabid-an and Seabreeze Homes KPC

Lead Choir: Cabid-an Kapilya Choir

This day showed the least number of attendees, probably because of the ongoing elections.

Procession followed after the mass.

Msgr. Gerry on motherhood and our mission to proclaim the gospel

2010-05-11T14:02:00.012+08:00

The pastor of the parish, Msgr. Gerry del Prado is the celebrant and preacher on the 6th day of the novena mass in honor of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima. Aside from his wonderful sharing on theme on the "Magnificat: Sharing the Mission to Proclaim the Gospel", he also talked about the different images of motherhood, the day being mothers' day.

Given tasks on the 6th day are as follows:

Commentator: Jacky Villafuerte

Lectors: Mikhail Franz Flores and Glenn Sentes

Lead Commission: Commission on Media for Evangelization

Sponsoring Kapilya: Almendras-Cogon and Sampaloc KPC

Lead Choir: Fatima Parish Choir

One of the highlights of said mass was the blessing of all mothers.

After the procession of the image of Our Lady the vigil before the Blessed Sacrament for clean, honest, peaceful and orderly elections follows.

Fr. Jess celebrates 5th day novena mass

2010-05-10T08:42:00.009+08:00

One of the parochial vicars of the parish, Fr. Jesus A. Encico, celebrated the 5th day novena-mass on in honor of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima. He talked about the Magnificat: Spirituality of Transformation.

Assigned to assist in the mass are the following:

Commentator: Jean M. Guab

Lectors: Elsa B. Meneses and Eva O. Carpio

Lead Commission: Commission on Family and Human Life

Sponsoring Kapilya: Salog and Sulucan KPC

Lead Choir: The Fatima Choir

Procession follows after the mass with Bro. Noel Listana.

The 4th day with Fr. Jun

2010-05-08T09:51:00.007+08:00

On May 7, 4th day of the novena-mass in honor of our Lady of Fatima, Fr. Felix B. Elegado, Jr. shares his thoughts on the theme, "Annunciation: Community in Mission."

Those with assigned tasks on the 4th day are as follows:

Commentator: Rica Lacson

Lector: Florenda Latosa

EMHC: Bro. Romy Solano, Bro. Ruben Vitug

Lead Commission: Commissiono on the Laity

Sponsoring Kapilya: SPPVS and Madan-an Diversion Rd. KPC

Lead Choir: SPPVS Kapilya Choir

Fr. Arnel Ayo is celebrant-preacher on the 3rd day

2010-05-07T13:08:00.008+08:00

Rev.Fr. Arnel Ayo talks about Annunciation: Discipleship as Commitment on the 3rd day of our novena-masses in honor of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima.

The following were assigned on the 3rd day:

Commentator: Sophia Dematera

Lector: Regina Coeli Gabito

EMHC: Bro. Ruben Vitug & Bro. Romy Solano

Lead Commission: Commission on Service

Sponsoring Kapilya: Abuyog and Marinas KPC

Lead Choir: Abuyog Kapilya Choir

Ofie Velasco leads the rosary during the procession after the mass while 3 members of the f-Voice - Apol, Nath and Julie Mae - led in the singing of marian hymns.

It's Fr. Totep on the 2nd day

2010-05-06T13:47:00.005+08:00

Fr. Roger Joseph "Totep" Erestain talks about the theme, "Annunciation: Understanding Discipleship" on the 2nd day of our novena masses in honor of Our Lady.

Assigned on the 2nd day, May 5, are as follows:

Commentator: Kathryn Karmen Leander

Lector: Marites Dicen

EMHC: Bro. Dan Delgado and Bro. Dan Funelas

Lead Commission: Commission on Worship

Sponsoring Kapilya: Buhatan and Housing Project KPC

Lead Choir: LWCC Choir

Fr. Bong opens this year's novena masses

2010-05-06T13:00:00.006+08:00

May 4 marked the start of the novena masses in honor of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima. Fr. Michael "Bong" Imperial was the celebrant-preacher in the opening mass which focused on the theme, "Mary, Woman for All Seasons."

Commentator: Ofelia Velasco

Lector: Glenda Goingo

Lead Commission: Commission on Temporalities

Sponsoring Kapilya: Balogo and Mahingan Kapilya Pastoral Councils

Lead Choir: Fatima Parish Choir

Procession followed after the mass.

Novena masses to our Lady starts

2010-05-05T22:52:00.003+08:00

The parish of Our Lady of Fatima is busy again it starts its novena masses to commemorate the 1st apparation of Our Lady to the three peasant children in Fatima, Portugal. This year's theme focuse on MARY: FIRST AND SINGULAR MODEL OF AUTHENTIC CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP. Aside from the novena masses which will be held May 4 - 12, other activities have been organized by the different commissions.

1. Kite Making and Flying Competition by the Commission on the Laity on May 8, 8:00 am at the SNHS grounds

2. Baptism on May 9, 2010, 10:30 am at the parish church

3. Vigil before the Blessed Sacrament (for honest, clean, orderly and peaceful elections) by the Commission on Education on May 10, 7:00 pm - 12:00 mn at the parish church

4. HOPE Prayer Brigade by the Commission on Youth on May 10 (election day) from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm

5. Family Quiz Bee by the Commission on Education on May 12, 8:00 at the St. Matthew's Hall

6. Palarong Pambata by the Commission on Youth on May 13 in the parish grounds

7. KPC Fellowship Night on May 13.

Daily schedule are as follows:
4:30 pm - holy rosary
5:00 pm - novena
5:15 pm - holy mass
6:30 pm - procession

We thank this year's hermano and hermana mayor, Henry & Vicky Duka for the festive decorations they have placed inside and outside the church.

1st Saturday procession

2010-02-18T11:55:00.003+08:00

Bibincahan KPC sponsors the 1st Saturday procession for February held February 6, 2010.

1st Friday vigil for 2010 kicks off

2010-02-18T11:16:00.004+08:00

The first Friday vigil is back. Held on February 6, this month's vigil is sponsored by the Commission on Family and Human life, where members of the core group took turns in leading the rosary, reciting the vigil prayers and the readings for reflection.

Fr Jess gives his sharing on the reading taken from the 6th chapter of St. Mark's gospel. Fr. Chrisly leads in the exposition, benediction and reposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The LWCC choir assists this month's vigil.

Parish ComWorship holds Lectors & Commentators training

2010-02-18T10:21:00.003+08:00

January 23 is a red day for the parish Commission on Worship as they hold a training for lectors and commentators of the different kapilyas in the parish.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Marites Dicen, head of lectors and commentators in the parish, the conduct of the training was held successfully at St. Matthew's hall. Participants were made to practice in front of a panel of critics.

Present were lectors from OLV, SPPVS, Abuyog, Housing Project, Sampaloc and some of the active lectors from the parish.

Fr. Entong talks about the bible

2010-02-18T09:37:00.004+08:00

Fr. Nestor Benavides is the resource person for January's parish lectures, held January 22 at the St. Matthew's Hall.

The bible expert of the diocese explains the importance of reading the bible, understanding the bible and living the bible.

Another highlight of his talk is the conduct of bible sharing sessions.

The parish lecture is a monthly activity of the parish of Our Lady of Fatima.

Pasko sa Parokya December 26, 2009

2010-01-06T14:00:00.048+08:00

CHRISTMAS CANTATA CONTEST-Kapilya Choirs from Abuyog, SeaBreeze, Sampaloc, Bibincahan, SPPVS & OLV, participated in the contest w/ SPPVS Choir winning the first prize.

GIFT GIVING-170 families & 85 individuals from 17 KPCs were recipients of Christmas gifts from generous parishioners, religious organizations & commission core groups together w/ the PPC Execom.

PROGRAM-The Parish Pastoral Council presented a Christmas medley carol. EMcees were Brother Noel Listana & Marian Encela of the PCME.

AGAPE- Dinner was prepared by the Clusters & the parish shared rice, hijado & drinks.

Family Blessing on the Feast of the Holy Family

2010-01-01T13:20:00.004+08:00

In celebration of the Feast of the Holy Family, December 27, 2009, the parish included in all its masses the renewal of family commitment. Included in the renewal is the blessing of all those who came to church with the whole family.

Msgr. Gerry del Prado presided over the last mass in the parish.

Music Ministry holds Christmas Party

2009-12-29T10:24:00.006+08:00

The Music Ministry of the Parish of Our Lady of Fatima held its Christmas Party, December 28, 2009 at the St. Matthew's Hall. The party started around 6:30 in the evening with an opening prayer from the SPPVS choir. It was an evening of fun with presentations prepared by each choir, parlor games, and food shared at the table. Present were members of the LWCC choir, The Fatima Choir, SPPVS Choir and the F-Voice.

Earlier in the program, Rev. Fr. Arje Flestado and Bro. Noel Listana dropped by to extend warmest support and greeting on behalf of the priests in the parish.

Edith Espinocilla went home with most of the prizes in the parlor games after winning about half of the parlor games prepared.

Mafe Guevarra, with her members, Eva Japinan, Jo Jamisola, Baby Brondial and Apol dela Rosa were the 'brains' behind said activity.

confessions, christmas carols

2009-12-29T09:42:00.001+08:00

In preparation for the celebration of the Midnight Mass on December 31, for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God and New Year's Day, CONFESSIONS will be heard at the Parish Church on WEDNESDAY, DEC 30, 2009, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.

The Living Word Covenant Community Choir will be singing Christmas Carols at 10:45 pm on December 31, 2009. The Midnight Mass will begin AT 11:00 pm.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

formal attire for the F-Voice

2009-12-27T11:12:00.004+08:00

F-Voice has a new uniform for Christmas!
...a labor of love from their singing engagements for the whole year.

reflections for the feast of the holy family

2009-12-26T17:12:00.003+08:00

"He went with them to Nazareth,and was obedient to them... And Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and men."

Jesus was true God and true man. As true God, his birth was accompanied by wonders. As true man, he had to submit himself to the discipline of Nazareth where he, like anyone of us, must learn godly and human values.

Our age has witnessed what the world takes pride in as great technological progress. These 'great technological progress" which has invaded our homes, if not handled properly, can work against gospel values. When families, for instance, do not have time to be together in order to give way to the computer, TV and/or cellphones, they definitely lose something very precious, especially in terms of imparting values to children. It is during the time when they are together, interacting with one another, that children are able to witness the love of their parents for one another and for them, their children. The home is the first school of charity. It was in Nazareth that the child Jesus learned the virtues of his Mother and foster father, He effectively carried out his mission of love equipped with the tools he learned in Nazareth.

God put us in the context of the family so that in the early beginnings of life we may learn especially the one reality that none of us cannot live without. It is the one reality that makes every moment of our lives worth living. When we know that we are possessed of that which gives birth to other virtues in our hearts, we are more than conquerors and kings. After all, we have love indelibly etched in our hearts. Love, who according to John, is God.

pasko ng parokya

2009-12-26T16:18:00.000+08:00

christmas baptisms

2009-12-26T07:30:00.000+08:00

The Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church overflowed with parents and sponsors for the baptism of one hundred sixty six (166) infants and children at 10am, Christmas Day. Fr Chrisly presided at the celebration, assisted by Msgr Gerry and Fr Arje.

midnight mass

2009-12-25T21:08:00.006+08:00

the creche at fatima

2009-12-25T20:59:00.004+08:00

official photographers

2009-12-25T14:32:00.003+08:00

If the pictures you see here are pleasing or not to the eyes, blame them! They are the ones responsible for such... so next time, just look for jomel or mam kathy.

blessed Christmas, everyone!

simbang gabi 9

2009-12-24T21:30:00.000+08:00

simbang gabi 8

2009-12-23T08:39:00.004+08:00

Fr Jess presided, Che Dechavez read, LWCC sang. The parish reflected on The Priest and The Sacrament of Matrimony on this 8th Simbang Gabi.

our lady of the stars: the lights of fatima

2009-12-23T08:39:00.003+08:00

fatima household christmas party

2009-12-22T09:24:00.003+08:00

simbang gabi 7

2009-12-22T08:38:00.001+08:00

The Simbang Gabi congregation reflected today on The Priesthood and the Sacrament of Holy Orders in the 7th dawn Mass presided over by Msgr Gerry. The KWCC choir sang, the Commission on Service led the sponsors.

simbang gabi 6

2009-12-21T07:11:00.001+08:00

simbang gabi 5

2009-12-20T08:44:00.001+08:00

Fr Alex Zamora, Diocesan Oeconomus, was presider and preacher for the 5th Simbang Gabi. The reflection focused on the priest and the sacrament of reconciliation.

kpc december l assembly

2009-12-19T21:36:00.002+08:00

The Abuyog Kapilya Pastoral Council (KPC) played host to the December General Assembly of the KPCs. Abuyog KPC chair, Randy Buen, presided at the meeting held in the barangay chapel. Main focus of the discussions were plans and updates for the Pasko ng Parokya on December 26.

reflections for the fourth sunday of advent

2009-12-19T21:20:00.003+08:00

Sin entered the world because of pride and the disobedience of the first man. With sin came corruption and the perversion of the created order. God promised to send a Redeemer to bail man and with him creation from the pitiable state into which he had fallen. The Redeemer would be the complete antithesis of sin and everything pertaining to sin.

The fulfillment of God's promise of a Redeemer came ushered in by people whose lives were to be the exact opposite of pride and disobedience. They were, in a way, to mirror and reflect the Promised One Himself. Thus we have St John the Baptist, the Messiah's precursor, whose humility was astounding as was his dedication to the task assigned him by God. From its humble condition, even Bethlehem-Ephrathah, "Too small to be counted among the clans of Judah" would play an important role. It was ordained by God to be the birthplace of the Savior.

Most of all, we have Mary, possessed, like St John the Baptist, of an exceptional and astounding humility to accept something that she perhaps hardly understood. Assured by an angel, she bowed in full obedience to the will of God: "let it be done to me according to thy word".

Attached to their respective and particular calling, both Mary and John the Baptist
would likewise mirror the sacrifice of the Messiah. John the Baptist would end up losing his head and Mary would have her heart pierced by seven swords, indicative of the pain and anguish she had to suffer with her Son.

The sacrifice of Jesus is the reason of the Incarnation, the cause of our Christmas joy, as we rejoice at the thought that God can be such a loving Father not to spare Hos Only Begotten Son but sent Him to us to that, freed from sin and death, we can have His life to the full and have it for all eternity.

Frf JESS A ENCISO

simbang gabi 4

2009-12-19T07:01:00.005+08:00

Theme for the Day: THE PRIEST AND THE EUCHARIST. Fr Chrisly presided and preached. Fr Jess was at SPPVS, Fr Gerry at Cabidan, Fr Arje at OLV Bibincahan.

simbang gabi 3

2009-12-18T06:18:00.002+08:00

On this third day of the Simbang Gabi, Fr Arje presided at Mass and preached on the theme: THE PRIEST AT CONFIRMATION: SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND STRENGTH. This continues the reflection from yesterday - THE PRIEST AT BAPTISM: SPIRITUAL GUIDE IN THE LIFE OF FAITH. Fr Jess Enciso presided at yesterday's Mass.

simbang gabi opens at olfp church

2009-12-16T06:31:00.005+08:00

To the strains of Lucio San Pedro's rousing Simbang Gabi. the Our Lady of Fatima Parish inaugurated the novena of Masses in immediate preparation for the celebration of Christmas. Msgr Gerry presided and preached, FVoice sang, Lingkod on Dambana (Knights of the Altar) served in full force, the EMHCs were there, with the lectors and commentators. The Commission on Family and Human Life led the sponsors. Fr Alex Zamora celebrated with Gov Sally Lee, Mayor Leovic Dioneda and all the city personnel at the City Hall, Fr Arje in Buhatan, Fr Chrisly in Abuyog, Fr Ben Dogillo at SPPVS and a seminary priest at OLV.

The general theme for this year's SIMBANG GABI is THE PRIEST; WITNESS TO THE WORD MADE FLESH.

The theme for the first day, homily guide provided by Msgr Rene Mabute, Vicar General, is The Priest and The Church: Shepherd of the People of God.

simbang gabi starts

2009-12-15T17:12:00.000+08:00

The first of the Simbang Gabi Masses starts today in four chapels - Marinas, Seabreeze, Mahingan and bibincahan East. Earlier today, the 2 bishops - Bishop Arturo Bastes and Bishop Emeritus Jesus Varela - and 25 priests concelebrated with Fr Ernie in his Thanksgiving Mass on his 5oth birthday and 25 anniversary as a priest at the Annunciation Parish in Bacon.

gnsfi board meeting

2009-12-14T22:18:00.002+08:00

Msgr Gerry and Mrs Purry Lanuza, of the Commission on Media for Evangelization, were at the GNSFI Board Meeting at the HOme for the Clergy this morning, Dec 14. Mrs Lanuza is the newest member of the Board.

meeting, commission on the laity

2009-12-14T22:13:00.002+08:00

Mrs Rica Lacson presided at the regular meeting of the Commission on the Laity at 6pm today at the Bible Center. Discussed at the meeting were the assignments for the sponsorship of the commission of the Simbang Gabi on Dec 17, and the group's quota for the parish gift-giving on December 26. Brownies and siopao capped the meeting.

fr jess conducts advent recollection for priests' parents

2009-12-13T14:21:00.003+08:00

On Gaudete Sunday, the 3rd Sunday of Advent, fr Jess Enciso led the Advent recollection of the parents of priests from the vicariate of Sorsogon at the St Matthew's Hall at 2:00 in the afternoon. The parents had dinner after, care of Mrs Nilda Gramonte, the mother of Fr Rowan, who was celebrating his birthday that day.

reflections for the third sunday of advent

2009-12-12T14:17:00.003+08:00

The words and the work of John the Baptist were a prelude to the words and the work of the coming Messiah. People sought John for answers to their individual concerns. He dealt with each one in accordance to what the Messiah himself would say and do. Because of the intensity of his call, people mistook him for the Messiah himself. In great humility, however, John made it clear to everybody that the Messiah to come was far mightier than he was. John's baptism was simply a call to repentance as a preparation for the coming of the Promised One. The baptism of the Messiah, carried out in the Holy Spirit and in fire, is the endowment, the giving of life.

As we wait for Him too and as we are filled with anticipation, let that waiting and anticipation be characterized by a great humility - the humility of the people who subjected themselves to the baptism of John, and repentant, sought the Baptist's guidance, and the humility of John himself who knew where he stood in terms of the One whose coming he was proclaiming. The meaning of the Messiah's coming will only hit home if we too have the boldness to admit who we are in the light of the sinfulness and our need for Him. We pray to Him to come and drive the darkness that can otherwise demolish the spark of life the Creator has adorned us with. We pray to Him to fill us, who open our heartsa and lives to Him, with his amazing graze and His enduring love.

Fr Jess A Enciso

parish commission on media for evangelization, meeting at 9am, parish house conference room

2009-12-12T13:06:00.002+08:00

first communion, abuyog elementary school + guest first communicants from chiang kai shek school

2009-12-11T15:54:00.003+08:00

parish commission on worship meeting at 6:00 pm, parish house conference room

2009-12-11T13:05:00.000+08:00

bp. broderick pabillo on the spirituality of stewardship

2009-12-10T22:45:00.004+08:00

Bishop Broderick Pabillo, DD, chairperson of the Episcopal Commission on Social Action, arrived in Sorsogon early morning of Dec 10 for a shortened (to half-day from one whole day, due to the unexpected Installation Mass of Bishop Joel Baylon as 6th Bishop of Legazpi) talk on the Spirituality of Stewardship at 9:00 am at the Our Lady of Penafrancia Seminary High School Auditorium, to priests, religious and seminarians of both the high school and philosophy departments. The gathering was a follow-up to the second diocesan pastoral assembly, which determined the focus and direction of the next quinquennium - the building of Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) in all the kapilyas in the parishes.

christmas gathering of clergy, religious and parents of priests

2009-12-09T21:35:00.005+08:00

olfp celebrates solemnity of immaculate conception, launches "giving tree", switches christmas lights on

2009-12-08T17:02:00.003+08:00

"the giving tree" at fatima

2009-12-08T05:54:00.001+08:00

At the Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception today, the Our Lady of Fatima Parish launched a new tradition - the GIVING TREE. The tree contains request cards for specific items, indicated by about 90 individuals (5 indigent persons from each of the kapilyas, identified by the KPC). Parishioners are encouraged to look at the cards and pick out requests they can afford to give or buy for persons concerned. The GIVING TREE is an initiative of the Parish Pastoral Council Execom, specifically under the Commission on Service. The Commission on Youth prepared the request cards hung on the tree. Our hope is that the tree "sheds" all its leaves soon. If it succeeds, we might have more "leaves" on the tree next year. PLEASE BE GENEROUS!

sorsogon vicariate priests rehearse carols for christmas party

2009-12-07T21:47:00.003+08:00

ssc studes draw st michael shrine

2009-12-07T21:40:00.004+08:00

parish rectory wears its holiday look

2009-12-07T21:24:00.005+08:00

cantata sa parokya: mechanics

2009-12-07T21:05:00.003+08:00

CANTATA SA PAROKYA:
A Christmas Choral Competition for Kapilya Choirs
December 26, 2009, 6:00 PM, Fatima Parish Grounds

MECHANICS:
1 The contest is open to ALL KAPILYA CHOIRS in the Parish of Our Lady of Fatima.
2 The participating choir should have a minimum of fifteen (15) and a maximum of thirty (30) members.
3 Two Christmas songs shall be performed by the participating choir: one Filipino Christmas carol, another in a foreign language.
4 Each choir will be allowed 6 to 10 minutes perfomance time.
5 Contest criteria
Voice 50%
Blending, tempo and rhythm 30%
(mastery of the song
Stage deportment/ audience impact 20%
(attire,choreography, facial expression)
6 Cash prizes will be given to the top three places.
First Prize - P 3,000.00
Second Prize - 2,000.00
Third Prize - 1,000.00
Consolation prizes will be given to all the other participating choirs.
7 For further inquiries,
a) call: parish office - 211-1890
Kathy - 211-1619
b) text: Mafe (smart) - 09285215293
Kathy (globe) - 09164355770.

The parish thanks GARY CHMURZYNSKY and his mother GLORIA (of Bay Shore, Long Island, New York, USA) for donating the prizes.

first communion, buhatan integrated school

2009-12-07T17:58:00.001+08:00

67 Grade IV pupils of the Buhatan Integrated School went to First Confession and received their First Communion this morning at the Buhatan Chapel. Msgr Gerry del Prado presided at the First. Fr Jess Enciso assisted at confessions.

special ppc execom meet on budget

2009-12-06T17:57:00.001+08:00

A special meeting was called today upon the request of Joel Jacobo, chairperson of the Commission on Temporalities, at the OLV Chapel at 1:30 in the afternoon, The chairpersons of all the commissions, except the Commission on the Laity who had to attend a diocesan meeting, discussed the formulaton of their annual budget. At the meeting, it was also decided that the pledging program be started with the PPC Execom members and religious organizations.

reflections, second sunday of advent

2009-12-05T16:12:00.004+08:00

Sin entered the world and turned it into a wasteland. Into this wasteland, this wilderness, God-Creator must send the Word (Logos) through Whom everything came to existence. It was the mission of the Son to recreate and renew His Father's creation and turn it over to Him at the end of time. This wasteland does not refer only to the external world but to what is inside the human person as well.

Because of the inability of the human person to comprehend realities beyond the realm of the senses, the Word must take on human form (Incarnation). Before the Word started His public ministry, God sent John to prepare for the coming of His Son. John gave voice to the Word so that the Word, when welcomed by people, can take root in them.

Matthew in today's Gospel reading begins with the wasteland in the political - Tiberius Caesar as ruler of the Roman Empire, Pilate, governor of Judea, Herod and so ans so as this and that. It even includes the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, likewise given to the political. Opposed to this is the call of John to repentance through baptism and the announcement of the coming Messianic kingdom.

What Matthew is emphasizing here is the fact that the coming Messiah is concerned more about the cleansing of that internal wasteland so that from there the external might take on a godly shape. Matthew is pointing out the religious and spiritual as the reason for the coming for the Promised One than what was then expected by Israel - a political uprising and carried out by the Messiah Himself.

John the Baptist as the Word's herald served as the voice to call people to repentance and prepare them for his coming. The Greek word for repentance is metanoia Originally it meant a change of mind. In the new Testament, however, it takes on a deeper meaning. it is the deliberate coming of a person to his/her senses ensuing in a change of ways, a change of conduct. Repentance as symbolized by baptism in the hands of John fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah.

It is Word that makes metanoia possible. When metanoia is in every human heart, then the Messianic Kingdom spoken of by Matthew from Isaiah has undoubtedly come and continues to exist, making this wasteland created by sin fertile and fruitful again.

Fr Jess A Enciso

advent recollections, dec 4: cabidan, mahingan, seabreeze

2009-12-04T17:57:00.002+08:00

advent recollections, dec 3

2009-12-03T17:56:00.002+08:00

advent recollections, dec 2: balogo, salog-sulucan, sppvs, housing

2009-12-02T17:55:00.003+08:00

recollections - housing, etc

2009-12-02T08:21:00.000+08:00

reserved space

KoC light up project

2009-12-01T17:55:00.001+08:00

household takes day off: embarcadero, here we come!

2009-12-01T04:22:00.001+08:00

olv, bibicahan east and diversion road recollections

2009-11-30T21:11:00.000+08:00

(in progress)

advent recollections

2009-11-30T20:59:00.004+08:00

The advent recollections began today for the first group of barangay chapels - Buhatan, OLV, Diversion Road and Bibincahan East. In Buhatan, Bro Senen Malaya nd Bro Noel talked on the season of Advent, Msgr Gerry heard confessions, Lucy Vitug took pictures and everyone partook of spaghetti, broiled fish, menudo and palus-ag
Fr Jess, who celebrates his birthday today and had some of the priests of the vicariate at Fatima for lunch earlier today, was excused from recollection duty.

reflections, first sunday of advent

2009-11-29T13:03:00.003+08:00

We begin a new Church calendar with the First Sunday of Advent. As one looks into the readings today, he/she can easily make a very valid observation. This Sunday's readings do not seem to differ from those of the last days of the ecclesiastical year - all about the things going to happen an the end of time. It is easy to understand why when we look into the nature and purpose of the Advent Season.

Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of the Messiah. He is the fulfillment of the promises God made in the Old Testament. As we wait for His birth, we anticipate joy but at the same time we can be filled with impatience. We want things to happen now. Children cannot seem to wait for the gifts they wish to receive. And the adults seem to be caught, not in the spiritual preparation for His coming birthday and whatever is involved in it, but in the frenzy of Christmas glitter - Christmas trees, lights, decorations, and all.

What we must understand of Advent is the fact that we do not only prepare for the Savior's coming birth but what His birth means to us, a people who otherwise could have been "walking in darkness". the reason of His birth is man's redemption. His work of redemption entails the great Mystery of Faith which we profess every time we come together to celebrate the Word and the Eucharist: Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again!

As we prepare to celebrate His birth, we must, by all means, prepare for His Second Coming.Thus, the readings this Sunday center on the coming of Jesus Christ at the end of time, and the urgency for us to be constantly watchful and vigilant. We do not know when that Second Coming is going to take place. Definitely none of us wants to be caught in a trap.

Preparedness for His Second Coming is the other face of Advent. That Coming at the end of time is what the Messiah's birth is pointing to, inevitably.

Fr Jess A. Enciso

vocation camp: youth in love!

2009-11-27T21:51:00.002+08:00

the youth vigil/vocation camp in pictures

our lady of the miraculous medal procession

2009-11-27T20:54:00.003+08:00

bible lecture series begins

2009-11-26T10:28:00.000+08:00

Msgr Noe de los Santos, Bikolano Bible scholar, began his series of lectures on Sacred Scriptures on Thursday, Nov 26. St Matthew's Hall overflowed with attendees - the regulars at our 4th Friday parish lecture series, the whole college department of the Our Lady of Penafrancia Seminary (ALL 34 of them, plus Fr Jun Elegado, rector), a sprinkling of parishioners from the Cathedral, Bacon and San Roque. Msgr Nong focused on the Infancy Narratives, in anticipation of the liturgical readings for the Advent Season. The open forum that followed proved quite interesting and very informative. OLFP looks forward to the next.

3rd vigil,jmv week at fatima, bro. noel leads reflections

2009-11-25T20:01:00.002+08:00

bro jupe garalde from donsol leads the reflection at the second vigil on the visit the JMV image

2009-11-24T22:02:00.003+08:00

jmv week at fatima, first vigil

2009-11-23T21:56:00.000+08:00

The first vigil on the occasion of the visit of the image of St John Mary Baptist Vianney was held on Monday, November 23. The reflection was given by Bro Philippe Andrew Gallanosa.

first communion

2009-11-23T16:57:00.004+08:00

First Communion Mass of 106 boys and girls from the Balogo Elementary School, at the Our Lady of Fatima Church, 2 PM,November 23, 2009.

christ, the king procession

2009-11-23T16:56:00.006+08:00

The heavy rain that has poured the whole morning stopped at 3:30 in the afternoon to allow the procession in honor of Christ the King to proceed. The procession stopped at five altars where prayers were led - for Christian formation, by Gov Sally Lee, for religious instruction by Sr Demi,mcst, for good governance by Judge Boy Fajardo, for the family by Mr and Mrs Nono and Ofie Velasco and children, for the environment by Mrs Lucy Vitug. Before the Mass, the Act of Consecration was led by Hon mayor Leovic Dioneda.

scenes from the vigil

2009-11-22T14:56:00.001+08:00

Christ, the King Vigil, November 22, 2009

reflections for the solemnity of christ, the king

2009-11-21T11:42:00.002+08:00

Pilate would never have understood the kingship of Jesus Christ. Nor any of his enemies. They were all so earth-bound that anything that went beyond the limits of the physical and the material was likewise beyond their grasp.

Christ's kingship comes in terms totally opposed to the world's notion of what it means to be king. The idea of kingship necessarily attached to service would undoubtedly sound ridiculous to Pilate, to the Pharisees and the scribes, all wanting to get rid of Jesus. But the kingship that God has in mind is nothing new in the bible. Take Daniel and his visions. What he tells us in the first reading is not the ravings of a fevered mind. Psalm 93 and especially Psalm 132 speaks about the Kingdom as God intends it to be.

The one basic prerequisite towards an acceptance of that Kingdom and eventually finding oneself entering its portals is, of course, faith. Without that faith, one cannot hope for the kingdom, let alone live here and now its demands. The kingdom is growing in the hearts of people who can follow and live the way of love, who is Jesus, God. Love makes us like Jesus Christ, King, who first must empty Himself so that His people may live. The kingdom of Jesus is arrived at only by following Him - the Servant of the servants of God.

Would Pilate and the rest have understood what self-emptying and self-giving was all about? Would people given to greed and worldly ambition, people given to accumulating material possessions do?

Fr Jess A. Enciso

busy, busy

2009-11-19T20:15:00.002+08:00

It's another busy evening at Fatima. Three commissions are meeting simultaneously - Commission on Service at the Rectory Conference Room, discussing the gift-sharing for indigents this Christmas, Commission on Worship at the Bible Center, finalizing details for the celebration of Christ, the King and Advent, Commission on Youth at the parish office, planning the Youth Vigil and Vocation Festival on Nov 28.

confirmations

2009-11-18T20:45:00.002+08:00

45 confirmandi today, from the Bibincahan Elem School. Mass was was 2pm at the parish church.

Monday, Nov 16, 37 confirmandi from the Our Lady's Village Elem School. at the 2pm Mass at the OLV Chapel.

fr cyben, boy flestado host birthday dinner at fatima

2009-11-17T21:20:00.004+08:00

The service area behind the Fatima Parish Rectory proved to be the venue with the perfect ambience for the birthday dinner hosted by Fr Cyben Vitug and Mr Art Flestado, Nov 17,at 6:30 pm. Family, friends, the priests and some of their parents came to greet the celebrators, including Sr Norma of the MCST who was also celebrating her birthday that same day. Happy birthday, Fr Cyben and Boy!

upcoming activities

2009-11-16T21:38:00.004+08:00

November 21-28 - Visit of the image of St John Mary Vianney in Our Lady of Fatima Parish

Nov 21- arrival of the image from Guinlajon
NOV 23-25 - 6:OO PM - Holy Hour
Nov 26 - 6:00 PM, St Matthew's Hall
(Regular Monthly Parish Lectures:
Talk on Scriptures by Msgr Noe de los Santos)
Nov 27-28 - 6:00PM - Procession of the Image of John Mary Vianney
Youth Vigil and Vocation Festival
Nov 28 - Motorcade to the Cathedral

November 22 - Celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King
November 29 - First Sunday of Advent
Movember 30 - December 4 - Advent Recollections (by kapilya)

reflections for the 33rd sunday in ordinary time

2009-11-16T21:21:00.003+08:00

(posted belatedly because smart suddenly decided to suspend our subscription for a week)

The end of time is sure to happen. This is what Jesus tells us in today's Gospel Reading, and his words cannot fail: "The heavens and the earth will pass away, but my words will not." When the end of time is going to happen, nobody knows except the Father. It may or may not occur in our lifetime. But one thing is definite - before it happens, a great upheaval, in the heavens and on the earth, will take place. It will be a moment of great trial. Those who survive the fierce trial, because of their adherence to their faith in Jesus Christ, who came to give Himself for the life of God's people,will, according to the First Reading, 'shine forth like the splendor of the firmament'. The exact opposite will be everlasting horror and disgrace.

If the end of time does not happen in our lifetime, we are still bound by our baptism in Jesus to witness to our faith.

The human person, people say, is a little cosmos in him/herself. What happens in the world of nature happens in an analogical way to the human person. We do experience balmy weather inside us, or upheavals that can upset and drive us to despair. Those individual, personal upheavals can be moments of trial for us to precisely stand on our Christian commitment and let our faith in God work the stronger in us. The temptation, on the other hand, will be too great, if we have been used to dependence om worldly matters, to turn to those matters instead of turning to God.

It is said that before we close our eyes to this life on earth, we will undergo a final test - to put everything especially our life, in the hands of God, or to cling to earthly matters. It is with total, unconditional dependence on God, or a desperate attempt to grasp and hold on to worldly matters. If our lives here on earth have been an exercise in faith and trust in God, an exercise in fruitful vigilance, happy are we. The other end of the spectrum is horrifying even to think in passing.

Fr Jess A Enciso

and who do you think fixed lunch?

2009-11-16T21:16:00.001+08:00

kpc november assembly

2009-11-16T21:01:00.003+08:00

After having been postponed twice (last October 17, because of the the Kasanggayahan historical parade, and then last October 24, because of Fr Noel Espaldon's ordination) the KPC assembly was finally held last Saturday, November 14, at the St Matthew's Hall. The morning session was a comprehensive talk by Msgr Choy Esperida, dicoesan chairperson of the Commission on Temporalities, on STEWARDSHIP. In the afternoon, the business meeting included the schedules for the parish visit of the image of St John Mary Vianney, the Christ the King celebration, the Advent recollection int he kapilyas and the gift-giving project this Christmas. Sulucan prepared the morning snacks, Cabidan the afernoon merienda, and the parish the simple lunch of fried chicken, togue and sotanghon.

ComYouth sponsors 1st Friday vigil for November

2009-11-10T16:04:00.008+08:00

The Commission on Youth of the Parish of Our Lady of Fatima was the sponsor of the 1st Friday vigil last November 6.

Led by Cristine Latoga, the group led in the praying of the Holy Rosary, the Act of Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

After the 15-minute silence, Fr. Arje Flestado shared his thoughts, which included 2 light moments - one with Fr. Jess and the other with the youth of which he is the director.

The LWCC choir assisted the youths in the songs, with Ofie Velasco and Rica Lacson leading the opening prayers.

The 1st Friday vigil is a monthly activity of the parish spearheaded by the Commission on Worship, a fitting way to honor Jesus and His mother, Mary.

bikol clergy regional retreat

2009-11-08T07:35:00.004+08:00

The priests of the seven dioceses of the Bikol Region will have a joint retreat this year (Nov 9-13) at the Bethlehem Retreat Center in Bacacay, Albay of the Diocese of Legazpi. The priests of Fatima Parish will be joining,except for Fr Jess, who is refraining due to health reasons. Masses during this week then, will be at 6:00 in the morning and 5:15 in the afternoon. Fr Ben Dogillo, who has retired from the Archdiocese of Manila and currently a resident at the SPPVS, will be helping out at the afternoon Masses.

Prayers are requested from everyone for the success and the fruitfulness of the retreat. This year's spiritual exercises will focus on the devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, especially as the region prepares to commemorate the 300th year of the Bikolano devotion to Our Lady of Penafrancia.

meeting, speakers' bureau

2009-11-07T17:17:00.002+08:00

Ms Norma Caguia, chair for the Commission on Education, presided at a meeting of the speakers' bureau of the parish, in preparation for the Advent recollections to be conducted in all the barangay chapels within the week of Nov 30-Dec 4. Fr Chrisly, ComEd priest-coordinator, attended the gathering which discussed the recollection module, schedule and teams of facilitators for the different barangays.

reflections: 32nd sunday in ordinary time

2009-11-07T13:26:00.002+08:00

Today's Gospel Reading presents two contrasting life dispositions. One is that of the scribes characterized by pride and selfishness, the other that of the poor widow characterized by selfless giving. Each disposition points inevitable to its goal. The former to where, according to Jesus Himself, there is "gnashing and grinding of teeth", meaning eternal death, the latter to endless life with God. Jesus strongly warns us against the first and points out to us the urgency of the second. It is an urgency because unless we learn to give then we are all going to perish with the fate of the Evil One.

The selfless giving of the widow in the Gospel is supported by the example of another widow in the First Reading. When we give without counting the cost, the rewards are more than we can ever imagine. The widow in the First Reading, by giving the prophet Elijah what she and her son had to live on, found to her amazement that her jar brimmed with flour for a year. Certainly more than she expected. The words of Jesus for the poor widow in the Gospel is more than a proclamation of her eventual destiny.

In the Gospels we find Christ thanking the Father for revealing to little ones the wisdom and the realities of the Kingdom of Heaven. One of these, of course, is the wisdom of selfless giving. Giving in to pride and selfishness is definitely movement that is inward. Inward movement screamingly proclaims that we are the standard. We are not! The standard is life in God. The movement of the mind and heart, therefore, should be outward to God. And there is no movement towards God unless we include the neighbor in the picture. In selfless giving, we pursue an outward movement that eventually ends up in God.

In giving, our example par excellence is Jesus Christ the High Priest. Nobody can share His life and glory without learning how to give. When we give from the heart and not because we have no more need of what we give, we are gradually transformed in to the image of Jesus Christ. We are, in fact, securing our future with God by our exercise in sefless giving. It is the way of Jesus and hopefully we make ourselves one of tose 'little ones' to whom the secrets of the Kingdom has been revealed.

Fr Jess A Enciso

memorial mass for deceased parents of priests

2009-11-07T12:54:00.005+08:00

Close to forty parents and other family members of the priests of Sorsogon gathered today for a Memorial Mass for the Deceased Parents of Priests at 8:30 am at the Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church. Music was provided by FVoice. Msgr Gerry, Vicar for the Clergy and Fatima parish priest, presided at the liturgy, reminding the assembly of the sacramental brotherhood of all priests which draws all our families together. A sumptuous breakfast followed, and a short meeting, at which were discussed forthcoming activities - the Advent recollection for parents on December 13, the Christmas Party with the Clergy on Dec 9 and upcoming birthday celebrations on Nov 17.

statement of the second diocesan pastoral assembly

2009-11-05T10:59:00.000+08:00

2nd diocesan pastoral assembly

2009-11-04T18:09:00.005+08:00

More than the expected 400 participants descended on the Our Lady of Penafrancia High School Seminary Auditorium for the 2-day Second Diocesan Pastoral Assembly. Bishop Art, Bishop-Emeritus Jess, the priests, sisters and officers and members of the PPC Execoms of all the parishes came to put heads, hearts amd hands together to set the direction of the diocese for the next five years. the goal? to form BECs of authentic Christian disciples here are some pictures from the first day.

nov 1, all saints' day mass at sorsogon catholic cemetery

2009-11-02T20:16:00.007+08:00

oct 31, living rosary

2009-11-02T20:16:00.006+08:00

reflections for the solemnity of all saints

2009-10-31T08:20:00.002+08:00

The Father, not sparing His Only-Begotten Son, sent Him to dwell among us to enable us to live with Him forever. Through Jesus, He has given His Word, so that by that Word, we may grow into the countenance of His Son and give us an access to His kingdom. Through Jesus, He has given us a model and an example by which we must shape and transform our very own lives, with the help of His grace, into the very life of Jesus Himself.

The Beatitudes that Jesus has given us in the Gospels are the surest way to the Father's kingdom. And the beautiful thing about them is that Jesus Himself lived each and every one of them, authenticating the way set by the Father for us all. Of course, they are the exact opposite of what the world entices us to aspire to and live by. Those who understand better and have the wealth of experience will readily tell us that everything the world tempts us with is mortal, finite and short-lived as anything that is created. Only God, the Creator, lives forever and those He has gifted with the wisdom to follow the way of the Beatitudes, the way of Jesus Himself.

If, this year, there is one thing that we must learn from the Feast we are celebrating this Sunday, let it be this one simple reality - that the Way of God
is different from the way of the world,and the way of the world different from God's way.

All the people who have gone before us and who in their lifetime had lived God's Way instead of the world's, realizing the insignificance of life severed from the will of the Father, are now in the glorious reign of Heaven. For us, they are reminders of what we too should be - staunch followers f God's will in an attempt to be true to our name - Christian in the real sense of the word, devoted and unswerving to the example of Jesus, Who is our Way, our Truth, and our Life.

Fr Jess A. Enciso

confirmations at olfp

2009-10-30T22:58:00.001+08:00

Pantomina music blared from across the street at 2pm on October 30, as Msgr Gerry presided at Mass and administered the sacrament of confirmation on 38 young parishioners.

oct 29, msgr rene explains BEC to the emhcs

2009-10-30T22:54:00.002+08:00

oct 26, fr arwyn lectures on liturgical music

2009-10-30T22:50:00.002+08:00

pictures from the installation, oct 25

2009-10-29T18:51:00.004+08:00

thanks, milo and katherine! glad to be working with you, henry and becky!

2009-10-26T19:08:00.005+08:00

The parish, together with the priests, of Our Lady of Fatima thanks Milo and Katherine Lee Naval for their service as hermano and hermana mayor from 2008-2009. At the turn-over ceremonies, Katherine's brother Bobet Lee received the papal blessing presented by the parish in gratitude and appreciation. Many thanks to you both.

The parish is also very glad to welcome its new hermano and hermana mayor, Henry and Becky Duka. Here's looking forward to a very fruitful and happy collaboration!

at olfp: altar makeover

2009-10-26T18:58:00.003+08:00

Henry and Becky Duka, the new hermano and hermana mayor of the parish, began their term by treating the parish to a makeover - of the altar: the altar table, ambo, lectern, presidential chair, candlestands. Yes, even an ambry. Fatima Parish is honored to be the first one in the diocese to install an ambry in the sanctuary. And the waters of the baptismal font are flowing again! Thanks Henry and Becky!

still at rehearsals

2009-10-26T18:55:00.002+08:00

f voice + musica chiesa

2009-10-26T18:44:00.003+08:00

F-Voice, our parish choir, enjoyed a rare experience, singing with Musica Chiesa, the Jesuit chamber music ensemble from the Ateneo de Manila University, invited over to Sorsogon for the weekend of October 24-25 to perform at the dinner-concert, a fund raise for the Commission for the Clergy. The nest morning, Chiesa accompanied the F Voice at the 10:00 am Mass for the Installation Ceemonies of Mr and Mrs Henry and Rebecca Duka as Hermano and Hermana Mayor of the Fatima Parish. On this page, the pictures at rehearsals at the Home for the Clergy and at Mass.