BUKÁS-LOÓB SA DIYÓS OPEN IN SPIRIT TO GOD

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Laureen McBride
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shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment.

1 September 28, 2018 BUKÁS-LOÓB SA DIYÓS OPEN IN SPIRIT TO GOD Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time THEME: There is peace in our hearts when do not allow sin to separate us from the love of God. shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments. This is the law of love. Those who transgress these commandments go against the love WORD: Nm 11:25-29 / Ps 19:8,10,12-14 / Jas 5:1-6 / Mk 9:45,47,48 ORDER: The precepts of the Lord are right and give joy to the heart. (Psalm 19) DIRECTION: Stand firm and follow God s Word and Direction. REFLECTION: Sin is described in the Holy Scripture as a transgression of the law of God (1Jn 3:4). Sin is simply doing what is wrong (or sin of commission), or not doing what is right (sin of omission) according to God s laws. The Ten Commandments was expanded into 613 Jewish laws. In contrast, Jesus simplified it in Matthew 22: 37-40: You of God. The law of love is the foundation of the doctrine of the Cross. A cross is formed by two lines. The vertical line corresponds to our relationship with God and the horizontal line corresponds to our relationship with man. Our relationship with both God and man must be our way of life. John 14:16 states, The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and...see P2 Living Water September 28,

2 (Cont d from P1)...remind you of all that I told you. The Holy Spirit is our Helper who enlightens us to know what is good and what is bad. The Holy Spirit enables us to obey God s laws and experience the joy of living in accord to God s will. In our faithfulness to Him, we experience true happiness of being filled with peace and surrounded with His love and mercy. The law of love is the centerpiece of life. We are all invited to experience God s love. But there are times that we reject this invitation and we choose to live in sin. The reality is that God does not separate Himself from us. In fact, God patiently offers His forgiveness to those who ask for it. He wants us to reconcile with Him. Regrettably, knowing that we sinned against God, we are filled with shame, guilt, anger, or pride that we do not see His loving mercy and hear His call for us to repent. We are so consumed with the effects of sin that we separate ourselves from God even more. God constantly reminds us to avoid sin at all times so that we might feel His love. Most of all, God strongly warns us not to be the cause for others to commit sin. He asks us to reflect on our life and identify the things that cause us to sin. He exhorts us to leave these things and cut them off, for they are not worth keeping if they cause us to lose our chance of being in God s loving and holy presence. Keep yourself pure, live holy lives and resist evil. Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good, (Rom 12:21). In the gospel reading this Sunday, the disciples are envious of the one who drove out demons in the name of Jesus because he is not part of the inner circle of Jesus. But even if he is not a disciple, he already has a strong faith and relies in the power of Jesus. Doing mighty deeds is not exclusive to a person or certain group. Jesus does not want others to be treated as outsiders and exhorts us to look beyond ourselves and realize our mission to bring more people to Him. Doing good to others assures us of His promise, Anyone who gives a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward, (Mk 9: 42). We will surely experience peace in our hearts when we remain pure of hearts and do what is right in God s presence. Prayer: Heavenly Father, open the eyes of my soul that I may see my weaknesses and my sins. Convict me of my sinful nature and guide me to avoid sin at all times. I desire to be holy like Jesus, totally obedient to Your Holy Will. Restore me to be your child that I may always feel Your peace and presence in my life. Amen. Source: BLDCSL WSC Reflection Sep 30/18 PROMISE:...because you bear the name of Christ...you will by no means lose the reward. (Mk 9:41) 2 Living Water - January 15, Living Water - September 28, 2018

3 25 Years of Service to the BLD Community Congratulations Joey/Susan Linsao and Carlos/Marite Sales May the Lord bless you as you have blessed so many! May the Lord give you peace and joy as you have shared the Lord s peace to so many! Living Water September 28,

BLD-Toronto 2018 Recollection Day Healing Hurts, Life-Giving Wounds The BLD Toronto District held a final recollection day for 2018 on September 15.

Mike Semana, a vibrant and dynamic speaker who laid out topics on Healing Hurts, Life-Giving Wounds. His style of giving retreats were punctuated with deep and intense prayer and singing.

He spoke extensively on the covenant of love, its origin and manifestations and how our individual actions have a corresponding social dimension that ultimately will reverberate to our own community

4 BLD-Toronto 2018 Recollection Day Healing Hurts, Life-Giving Wounds The BLD Toronto District held a final recollection day for 2018 on September 15. In attendance were committed and covenanted members from Toronto, St. Catharines, SFX Mississauga, Guelph, Barrie and Rochester, NY. Approximately 140 people came to listen to Fr. Mike Semana, a vibrant and dynamic speaker who laid out topics on Healing Hurts, Life-Giving Wounds. His style of giving retreats were punctuated with deep and intense prayer and singing. He led the assembly in the imaging process wherein everyone was asked to close their eyes and visualize the presence of Jesus beside them as they silently pray. He spoke extensively on the covenant of love, its origin and manifestations and how our individual actions have a corresponding social dimension that ultimately will reverberate to our own community activities and decisions. The attendees were encouraged to write their personal reflections and hand-outs were given to guide them through the day s topics/discussions. The recollection was a success as everyone went home fully soaked in God s love. We would like to thank Fr. Semana for sharing his God-given gifts. We thank the Service, Liturgy and Praise Ministries. We acknowledge the presence of the DCS and the guidance of the Pastoral Apostolate DCS. To the members of the Pastoral Services Ministry, our thanks. To the outgoing DLC of the Pastoral Services Ministry, a job well done. Pastoral Services 4 Living Water - January 15, Living Water - September 28, 2018

SOLO PARENTS ENCOUNTER #17 Graduates: Rosemarie (Rose) Bonadie * Marinelle (Manel) Bucao * Eledita (Lilith) Halili * Evelyn (Belen) Lazona * Janete (Neth) Loberes * Monica (Monic) Maddela * Maria

5 SOLO PARENTS ENCOUNTER #17 Graduates: Rosemarie (Rose) Bonadie * Marinelle (Manel) Bucao * Eledita (Lilith) Halili * Evelyn (Belen) Lazona * Janete (Neth) Loberes * Monica (Monic) Maddela * Maria Magdalena (Lenny) Naluz * Joanne (Joanne) Sebastian * Mariza Lyn (Jhing-Jhing) Tenoso * Josie Pabalinas (Class Shepherd) * Willie Hernandez (Class Shepherd-in-Training) N ine (9) women responded to the invitation to a weekend encounter to experience God s love last September 7-9, Not one of them had an inkling of what lay ahead but they came just the same guided by an inner voice that enticed them to come and see. And they were not disappointed. After the initial icebreaker activity and after getting the hang of Fr. Matthias booming voice and lilting accent, the candidates became animated and responded to the questions and prodding of Fr. Matthias. The sharings in the care circles flowed candidly and in some instances, there was acknowledgement of deep wounds and the need for forgiveness and reconciliation. For the auxies, this year s retreat was a little unusual. Whereas in the past, service was the operative word because of the larger number of candidates. This time, with only 9 participants, they were able to sit down and listen to the talks and follow the rhythm of the retreat. Some were deeply touched as memories of their own woundedness resurfaced. However, this time was different because their wounds have healed and they have become the Wounded Healers, able to reach out and minister to those who came and who are still hurting. Whether it was a shared experience of laughter or tears or a personal encounter with God, many agreed that it was a solemn and fulfilling weekend experience. To our fellow Solo Parents members we who had been scarred by life s wounds, who had walked with pain and angst, who had healed let us remember that our journey continues. We now have nine more individuals added to our family. We welcome them with open arms. We will walk with them in the changing seasons of our lives and trust that in every step we take, our loving Father is always there. We will always remember the poignant lyrics of one of our Harana songs and we will take heart for we know that we will never walk alone. By: Cora Montilla and Willie Hernandez Living Water September 28,

OSG/BLD SFX COMMUNITY SOLO PERSONS ENCOUNTER #1 The OSG/BLD SFX Community held its First Solo Persons Encounter Weekend September 22-23, 2018- a Live-Out Encounter at the St.

6 OSG/BLD SFX COMMUNITY SOLO PERSONS ENCOUNTER #1 The OSG/BLD SFX Community held its First Solo Persons Encounter Weekend September 22-23, a Live-Out Encounter at the St. Martin Catholic Secondary School. With the 2 BLD Districts working hand in hand, joyously combining their gifts and talents, it was a smooth and almost stress free 2 day Encounter. The Spirit of the Lord moved and easily took over. The Toronto SPM Group headed by Pastoral DCS Eric & Pat Lazaro, Solo Parent DLC Rudy & Ching DeVera, SPMTricord Linda Canaria, Cora Montilla and Nilda Villa supported the SPE Sharers Willie Hernandez, Belen Rueles, Josie Pabalinas and Linda Canaria. Auxilliaries Theo Ly and Brennie- Galace completed the team. SFX District is thankful for the support of SPM Group in Toronto as they helped deliver the "full package " of the SPE program. We are also thankful for the support of other BLD Toronto members belonging to other ministries, especially in managing the Vigil Room. We knew there was an immense need for this Weekend Encounter in our SFX Parish Community. We were hesitant and unsure at first, but nudged by the Holy Spirit and buoyed by Fr. Armand Galay s confirmation of support and availability, we went full gear. The 8 SFX members who previously attended the SPE Program in Toronto, led the way and were unwavering in their service. As well, the ever faithful and supportive members of the OSG/BLD SFX Community, rose to the occasion in helping deliver the Solo Persons Encounter weekend. With a total of 40 Auxiliaries headed by the 10 SFX Leaders and with the guidance of Fr. Armand Galay, the weekend became a truly unmistakable blessing from the Lord. Respectful of the unique program of the SPE, the SFX Team managed the Intercessory Vigils, Service, Food, Liturgy, Marshalling and over-all support. It was apparent that the Spirit of the Lord was with all of us that weekend, peacefully guiding us. The following 24 Solo Persons attended the SPE weekend: Maria Victoria Rayos, Norlyn Godinez, Hilda Namu, Mary Anne Butler, Virgie Ong, Tessie Daguio, Thelma Varquez, AlziraFernandes, Jenny Aramata,...see P7 6 Living Water - January 15, Living Water - September 28, 2018

7 Cont d from P6...Helen Xavier, Lomas Ramdass, NymMeneses, Dylin Santiago, MarilouAlinea, Phyola James, Erminda Javier, Dina De Guzman, Marilyn Valencia, Cora Saavedra, Anacorita- Sayani, Eulogio Estacio, Marietta Bautista, Precy Andrade and a last minute registrant, a Nun by the name of Sister Gertrude Marindoque. As always, when we make ourselves available to serve Him, the Lord allows us to see a glimpse of His glory through the miracles and healing we saw and heard over the weekend. It was a remarkable response from the participants who came from a mix of multicultural diversity. Some of the graduates will stay and join our Community, while some might not for some reason or another. But the important thing is that peace and healing took place in their hearts as we brought them closer to the Lord. It was a fruitful experience for all as we put our trust in the Lord s plans for our humble Community. We thank the Lord for allowing us to serve His people. To God be the glory! Ed & Lu Dumlao For OSG-SFX District Living Water September 28,

8 LET S GET BUSY!! Learning from Jess & Marilen Angeles: BLD Toronto Founding Members It s more than just talking the talk...it s about walking the walk! MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER #43 October 20-21, 2018 For info, please see: Manny/Letty Buado, Frank/Grace Gujol, or any ME#42 class members 8 Living Water - January 15, Living Water - September 28, 2018

Come, follow me. (Mk 10:21b)

Come, follow me. (Mk 10:21b) St. Francis Xavier O P E N I N SPI R I T T O G O D (BU K Á S - L O Ó B S A D I Y Ó S ) C o v e n a n t C o m m u n i t y S t. F r a n c i s X a v ie r Mississa u g a D istrict (F F D ) Those who are poor