therese's slice of light

Wallpaper

2012-02-03T13:27:00.002+08:00

Ha! Looks like the internet cobwebs have come around my blog. If you have been coming round for a look, I'm sorry you missed me. If this is your first time visiting, HURRAH!

Anyway, there is so much to update, but in a nutshell:

I got married
We're living in New Zealand
I've been maintaining at least 4 blogs, which explains the slack in this one
I've been cooking up a storm in my own kitchen

Anyway, I thought I might leave you with something that's been on my mind.

Text: Bible Matthew 10:8

Photo credit: unknown

Butterfly: Courtesy of Creator

Sharing at Holy Family Church

2010-08-30T15:55:00.001+08:00

Where: Church of the Holy Family Singapore
When: 29 Aug 2010

The combined catechism classes 10 mins before the sharing.

Serving the children ministry in the Philippines had been such a great blessing to me. Witnessing the spiritual growth of the children and youth, and seeing how God has been moving mountains to see the growth of the ministries have been an amazing journey. From its humble beginnings in 2006 with only a handful of children, we have seen a a big leap till where it is now, 3 sessions of about 30-40 children each.

And so it was with such eagerness to share about the lives of these children, to the children in Holy Family Parish (Singapore). There were about 50 children, a combined session of a few classes.

As image after image and story after story about the plight of these Filipino children was shared, I could see a sense of compassion and solidarity in the eyes of these those present, students and teachers alike. Especially when the children realize that they are about the same age.

Let's pray that in this 'communion of saints', we will all be able to help one another, to honour the dignity of those around us who may have less, and to offer help with compassion and sensitivity. God bless you Holy Family parish!

Update - Teaching at prayer meeting

2010-08-12T09:26:00.000+08:00

What: Praise@Work Wed prayer meeting
Date: 11 Aug 2010
Where: St Bernadette Church - AV Room

I was invited to give a teaching-sharing on "Living a Life Holding HIS HANDS". On faith, trust, prayer and abandonment. Thanking God for all faithfulness of His Love, the members of this prayer group was very receptive and participative.

Thank you Praise@work for supporting my fund raising project!

Prayer: LORD, May we be able to abandon our lives more and more into your hands, to trust you even more. Amen!

Update of outreach - ICPE retreat

2010-08-07T12:23:00.005+08:00

What: ICPE retreat "To Know Christ and Make Him Known"

Date: 17-18 July 2010

A retreat aimed at knowing Christ, to grow in faith and nurture our love in Christ. This session was led by directors and missionaries from the different mission centres. An international group hailing from Czech Republic, Germany, Indonesia & Singapore.

ICPE Phillipines Director Esther Fong sharing on Discernment

There were lively sessions and praise and worship, interspersed with moments of praying for each other. It was well attended by more than 50+ people from all walks of life and from the different parishes in Singapore. This retreat was organised by Praise @ work and conducted by the ICPE Mission.

Update on retreat - Cenacle

2010-08-07T12:22:00.008+08:00

What: Personal retreat at Cenacle Retreat House

Date: 21-31 July 2010

Thanks for all who prayed. This was a grace filled, spirit filled retreat. Just sharing some of the very precious moments spent at the retreat house.

Wallpaper of the month-August 2010

2010-08-04T00:16:00.000+08:00

This was created with the photos I took at my recent personal silent retreat. The artwork you see (the 2 red hearts design) came out of prayer. Feel free to download for use on your personal computer. Feel free to link to this post. Wallpaper not for sale. God bless!

Update of outreach

2010-07-12T12:26:00.000+08:00

Group: School of Witness alumni

Date: 12, 13 Jul 2010

ICPE session with alumni of School of Witness – 2009 & 2010

Catholic Archdiocesan Youth Centre (CAYC)

Enthusiastic youth from the SOW alumni.

This session saw about 40-50 youth and youth coordinators from parishes across Singapore.

We were privileged to have ICPE mission's International Directors and Founders Mario and Anna Cappello share what it means to have a vision and how to respond to it. The 2^nd evening saw Esther Fong, a missionary for the past 20+ years share on discernment, while I led worship during the 2 evenings. We pray that the light has been fanned and kept alive for the journey ahead.

Note: These youth have all attended and completed the 6 weeks School of Witness which was a collaboration between the Youth Ministry Office of CAYC and the ICPE Mission, who conducted both the schools. It is aimed at those entering polytechnics, universities for further studies or joining the National Service (compulsory for all male citizens). Since the completion of their schools in Feb 2009, and Feb 2010, the youth themselves felt it was high time to have a follow up session and they organized one!

For more information on attending the next School of Witness (SOW) go to: http://cayconline.wordpress.com/

Update of outreach - Praise @work

2010-07-07T12:29:00.001+08:00

Prayer group: Praise@Work

Topic: “Deeper worship”
Date: 7 July 2010

Praise @ Work was started around 1995(?). Through the years, it has seen professionals from all walks of life coming together to worship God and to grow in Christ. I myself attended a Life in the Spirit Seminar co-facilitated by this prayer group and joined it as a full fledged member. And later took a leadership position in the core team. So it was nostalgic to return to this community, though the changing face of the group has filled it this time, it was a privilege to 'give back' to the prayer group that contributed to forming me.

On 7 July 2010, I was invited to give a teaching on 'Deeper Worship'. The session to keyed in to reveal what some of the blocks are, what helps one to enter into worship, and it all boils down to a relationship with God. We ended the session the same way we started it, with praise and worship. We called upon the Holy Spirit and simply worshiped God. Many were touched deeply by God's all consuming love.

“I felt His consumption fire filling the room! Praise The Lord!” - Augustina

“prayer meet at Praise at Work was powerhouse!” - Stephanie

Update of outreach - Mustard Seed Community

2010-06-27T12:33:00.001+08:00

Prayer group: Mustard Seed Community

Topic: “Building relationships in community”
Date: 27 June 2010

This particular community has meeting together regularly for the past few years. They are a community of young working adults who love Jesus and have committed their Sundays to come together. They meet for 9am Sunday mass, breakfast, and the sessions proper at 1230pm.

On 27 June, 2010, I was invited to give a session on 'Building relationships in community'. The 20+ members fully participated during the session. There was also a segment of gathering to thank one another, to ask for forgiveness and to pray with one another. I was blessed by their eagerness to grow and move together as a community.

Commandment to love

2010-06-24T00:30:00.006+08:00

Recently, one of my parents suddenly developed extreme pain. Unable to walk, sit or even lie down without pain, I can only imagine how limiting life can suddenly become. We take so much for granted, especially for those of us who do not have constant pain, daily activities like sitting down to eat, to go to the toilet, lying down to rest for the day, cleaning etc.

When pain peaks, nothing else mattered. Mood swings, anger, hopelessness, depression, insecurity, financial drain, just to name a few. But no matter what, my mission is to love. To love without expectations, to serve like the lowliest servant, to cheer like a person with hope,to pray like a person with faith.

Jesus took his own body, and offered it for my sins. The pain, suffering, can only be imagined. They say that in the movie 'The Passion of The Christ', the torture shown was a mere 40% of what really happened.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I lift up all those who are in pain today, those whose pain is not just limited to physical, but mental and emotional pains. Those whose pain cannot be relieved by medicines. Please send your comforting love to them, and let them know You are very near and understand very well. Bless them Lord. Amen.

P/S If you like to support me in continuing mission, please click here to find out how:

http://sliceoflight.blogspot.com/p/help-me-be-missionary.html

Virtual families

2010-05-26T23:29:00.001+08:00

With so many gamers young and old online, I decided to check it out for myself, to see the impact it is having on children.

The first was 'Virtual families'. This is a simple game where you, as the player, can 'pick up' your little people and 'make them do things'; work at the garden, clean up the house, cook, put away groceries. You can even 'encourage' them with a little pat on the back, these little praises will then 'train' your little people to repeat the work that you want them to do. Sometimes, they simply get distracted and want to do something else, sometimes they get sick and need medication.

What I find most interesting is that:
- This gives a false sense of control. "I can make anyone do anything I want them to do"
- Encouragement can become a 'nag' if it is simply praise to make the fellow do stuff.
- In the game, the more money one has the better, more rare collectables, more money etc.
- In reality, God does not 'make us' do stuff, He gives us choices and corrects us with love, He is also the Ultimate Encourager!

Holy Week 2010

2010-05-05T09:12:00.014+08:00

Holy Week in the Philippines is something so different, and so actively participated. As we joined in the 2 hour procession, we see the devotion the people have, the fervour with which they practiced their faith.

To the Filipino people, Mother Mary is an integral part of every season, and so she is right there next to Jesus before He expired and right there when He rose. In the parish this is depicted visually with both Mary and Jesus images near the altar.

Then on Holy Saturday, the ministries continued with the adults and children. Here we acted out a scene when the apostles found that Jesus is gone. (I'm in pink, as Mary) And a rare moment of picture taking with the children (this is only less than half of them)

Ash Wednesday 2010

2010-02-17T05:01:00.005+08:00

Every year, on Ash Wednesday, we are reminded 'ashes to ashes, dust to dust', and we shall all return to where we came from.

This is particularly poignant this year. A friend passed away recently. As I read how so many of her friends and family continued
to pray for her and kept vigil at her bedside till her last breath, one thing crossed my mind...

What was she thinking all this time at the hospital?
- her studies?
- relationships yet un-mended?
- unfinished business?
- her work?
- her life flashed across her?

When I was informed of her eventual departure from this world into the next, I cannot help but shed tears. We weren't that close as friends, in fact I can count the number of times we met face to face. But somewhere in my inner being, I connected with her as I faced my own poverty.

What would I have done if I were in her shoes? Nothing... there was absolutely nothing left to 'do' but just to 'be'. I'm sure in her pain, she might have felt frustrated, that there was nothing she could do.

Looking at her last photo, I saw the serenity on her face. Nothing else mattered now. So why should anything matter so much? Everything is brought to a new perspective. It has encouraged me to de-clutter my life.

This Lent is really a time to reflect on God's Divine Mercy, to acknowledge where I have not been merciful, forgiving, being hard on others and myself, and look with joyful hope that a way had already been created for us to return to the Father.

Here's an excerpt from an email I received, author unknown:
LENT = Leave Every Negative Thing

As you begin this Holy Season, may you discover the true meaning of LENT, by Leaving behind all Negative things of the past and strive for a Future filled with Hope! (Phi 3: 7 – 14).

A Different Approach to Fasting...

Fasts have a tendency to be oriented toward things like giving up food or television. But there are many other creative ways we can welcome Jesus' healing touch.
Here are suggestions you may want to consider.

1. Fast from anger and hatred. Give your family an extra dose of love each day.

2. Fast from judging others. Before making any judgments, recall how Jesus overlooks our faults.

3. Fast from discouragement. Hold on to Jesus' promise that He has a perfect plan for your life.

4. Fast from complaining. When you find yourself about to complain, close your eyes and recall some of the little moments of joy Jesus has given you.

5. Fast from resentment or bitterness! Work on forgiving those who may have hurt you.

6. Fast from spending too much money. Try to reduce your spending by ten percent and give those savings to the poor.

Origin of Lent
The forty day period is symbolic of the forty days spent by Moses and Elijah in the wilderness; during the days of Noah God made it rain for forty days and forty nights (they were in the ark for much longer); the Jews wandered forty years traveling to the Promised Land. Jonah in his prophecy of judgment gave the city of Nineveh forty days' grace in which to repent. Jesus retreated into the wilderness and fasted for forty days of temptation to prepare for his ministry.

Customs during the time of Lent
There are traditionally forty days in Lent which are marked by fasting, both from foods and festivities, and by other acts of penance. The three traditional practices to be taken up with renewed vigor during Lent are prayer (justice towards God), fasting (justice towards self), and almsgiving (justice towards neighbor).

Mothers; pain & perseverance

2009-10-23T09:34:00.007+08:00

Just the other day, I experienced a bout of the stomach flu. As i continued to feel nausea, purging everything I ate that day, I consoled myself that this pain in my abdomen is nothing compared to the millions of women who are going through child labour pains at the same moment.

I kept praying "LORD HELP ME!"

Immediately I realised HE IS helping me! All that needed to be purged out is coming out of my system! When i acknowledged that this purging is 'good for me', i had a greater acceptance of it. And even welcomed it.

Labour pains:
hours and hours of pain

Resulting: Gratefulness; Miracle being born

Stomach flu:
very temporary pain

Resulting: Gratefulness: No need to suffer more pain

In our lives, we often see something at face value, it looks painful to
go through, hard to endure, difficult to live by; but this 'cross' we are bearing could just be the purifying fire in our lives to make things 'better'.

My life wouldn't be where it is if not for the many times i had been inspired and encouraged to persevere and look further, to loook beyond, and to believe with faith.

Bringing forth a heritage

2009-10-19T10:13:00.000+08:00

My dad’s heart is not doing well these days. One of the side effects of this new drug is that it makes him feel dizzy. Dad had a heart attack when he was just 65, he underwent an open heart surgery, and doctors say it is just too early for him to have such a heart attack. That was 2004.
This October, dad will turn 70. There will not be any 5 star sumptuous meal because of his dietary constraints. But I want to be here for him.

Being away for the past 7 years on mission, now I am on mission at home. I haven taken some time off, slowing down community responsibilities to be in Singapore instead of Manila. Being responsible is a good virtue, and this is what my parents have taught me as a rule of life. And I took that very seriously in all that I do in entire life and especially so in the mission. But now ‘being responsible’ took on a new meaning. There will be other people who can be ‘responsible’ for the community and the members in it, but I am the only one who can be ‘responsible’ for my parents. No one else can fill this place.

Being at home the past 4 days made me realize the many treasures that dad never taught me. Just on the day I arrived, as if there is no time left, as if it was of utmost importance, he got ready ingredients to make his favourite ‘Yam cake’. A tradition handed down from his mother, but which he perfected. I had asked about the recipe some years back and had not been successful in making it on my own. We both made it together 3 days ago. It pained me to see his hands shake uncontrollably when he held on to the small saucer of very few ingredients.
Something clicked inside me. He wants this tradition to continue and he wants to impart it to me. ME! It is his way of saying, ‘there really isn’t that much time left, and here’s my gift to you, to remember me by.’

The Yam Cake turned out very nice. And we finished the whole 8 inch tin within a few hours. The next day we made another one, and half of it was gone within the hour it was cooked. It turned out even nicer than the first day’s.

My gratitude for his alertness even in this difficult time of his life is limitless. Though he feels even weaker now, panting even to carry a 2kg bag of fruit, dad is already letting go slowly.

“Thanks Dad, for all the years of toiling, self sacrificing, caring and loving for me. You are the best!”

“Thank YOU Father God for giving me this very precious time to spend in Singapore. You have indeed moved mountains and shifted events to make this never-to-be-repeated moment happen NOW. I will forever treasure this. Please bless all those who have made this time possible for me. THANK YOU!”

No Super Typhoon!

2009-10-07T11:58:00.013+08:00

Typhoon Parma did not hit Metro Manila! No further devastation is a cause for celebration!

We are still packing more relief packages of rations. The people's lives are forever changed. You can see more details on the official blog of ICPE Philippines, please see http://icpephilippines.blogspot.com

Here are some photos that a colleague of mine took with her mobile phone. These photos were taken on 4 Oct 2009 near the
City Hall (Carucho Avenue) on her way to work, near her home. The 'river' was once a dry road. And now people are still walking in waist/knee deep water.

The Filipino people are also very ingenius and opportunists. See how some have made a livelihood out of the need to stay dry! Using whatever they could find to make 'floats'/'boats'. They charge anything between P50-90(around S$2 -3) for this short stretch of road (500m), which is equal to a day's transport and food! But needs have probably forced them to think of ideas to make ends meet!

All photos taken by Chon Israel.

Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana)

2009-10-03T11:59:00.005+08:00

Dear friends, as we in Manila are preparing and bracing ourselves for the next Super Typhoon (so called because of its speed)

At the moment, we are ok. In fact yesterday we packed another 300 packages ready for distribution, but as weather station has advised us to stay indoors we are following it for safety reasons. So far, we have distributed 800 packages, and preparing to buy more neccessities like bedding, blankets, medicines which they really need and have requested.

For more photos and updates on what our mission is now and if you want to be a part of the urgent aid needed, there is information on the site. Go to:
http://icpephilippines.blogspot.com/

Please also note that though we are an international Catholic community, we are helping everyone and anyone affected regardless of religion.

God bless!

When the storm became the killer

2009-09-30T22:12:00.010+08:00

These days are hard. We are safe here in the centre, but the storm has affected more than 2 million people. News reports have said the flood have taken the lives of just a few hundred, but in reality, i am sure there is so much havoc that, numbers are unaccountable.

The last few days have been spent working as
relief volunteers. Packing rations, forming assembly lines to pass packs on to trucks.

We have also started purchasing stuff like alcohol (to kill germs) and biscuits (dry rations are easiest because the survivors may not have the facility to cook), canned food, drinking water. These 300 packages have just been assembled and ready to be distributed. It's a small number, but for today, this is what we can manage with our finances and manpower.

In our daily lives, water is so much taken granted for that, only when there is no way to use the tap (flooding affects all systems), no way to buy water (if one is located in an already flooded area), you can just imagine how much clean drinking water 2 million people need. Many are now sick, disease is commonplace. First hand accounts to just some people i spoke to said that they saw their own neighbour's children get swept away in the flood. Another spoke of how he had to wade through flood waters, in some areas neck high water, for 8 hours to get home to his family. many families just had to pull together, squeezing tens of people in a small upper room. If like many in the world, if you haven't been in a flood before... there are many 'traps' in the flood, like potholes, drains, dead animals, live rats, snakes, rain pouring down constantly, no transport and maybe even no electricity.

These days are tiring not only physically, but also emotionally. A picture speaks a thousand words, so here are just some photos of today. I will try to update this blog when i can. If you would like to help with contributions, please feel free to email/leave a comment with your contact. God bless all of us

My just-for-fun ear rings series

2009-07-12T17:04:00.004+08:00

I simply love the idea of being able to make something practical and beautiful! This morning, i made a set of ear rings and bracelet called 'unending love' just before mass. And wore them to church! This idea was something that popped out of my mind when i woke up this morning! Anyway, here's a small selection...just for fun! However, if you are interested to help out with my fund raising effort, these are available for a small donation.

Day of recollection for Youth- 14 June 2009

2009-07-04T16:59:00.001+08:00

the Joy of baking!

2009-07-04T15:06:00.008+08:00

My latest venture into the 'unknown' is baking. Who would have guessed?

Lately I have been watching Martha Stewart on TV. I'm amazed at the talented personnel she has on her staff roll. And I appreciate all the people who love what they do and do what they love for a living! Whenever I wanted
a recipe would be Martha's website. I salute all the untiring people who put the recipes together and share them so generously. Made the recipes so easy to follow and so enticing!

I have since baked:
Carrot ginger cake
Bread pudding with bananas
oatmeal chocolate cookies
Hummingbird cupcakes

Last week, i was so craving for those ginger snaps i used to have as a child. They are swirled brown (the ginger bits) and white (non ginger bits) and are more biscuits than cookies. Does anyone out there know the English name for them?

Anyway, to satisfy my craving i baked a batch of 'Chewy Chocolate Gingerbread cookies' (29 June 2009). http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/chewy-chocolate-gingerbread-cookies?autonomy_kw=chewy%20chocolate%20gingerbread%20cookies&rsc=image_8
Everytime i bake, i try a new recipe and each time they come out as expected... delicious! The recipes are almost fool-proof!

These were the last 2 cookies, the others have been shared and everyone loved them. I'll definitely make them again. Although mine arent perfectly round like Martha's, that's the way i like them, natural!

Youth ministry!

2009-07-04T12:01:00.001+08:00

A picture speaks a thousand words! We just recently started a new series of teachings : Be all you can be! based on a book written by John Maxwell, that i have been reading and still being very inspired by. Thanks Audrey for the gift of the book!

Creative things!

2009-07-04T11:53:00.003+08:00

Part of my time is spent on creatively using limited resources to create things for birthdays, festive meals, welcome cards etc.

Here's my first foray into 'Quilling'. Its been hiding from me all these years! Its so easy! This is absolutely the first thing that came out from twirling small strips of paper around a paper clip (i didnt have the quilling tool). And they turned out so delightful! I dont know what i will do with them yet, but i'm thinking of door notices, cards etc. It can also be made into script (like calligraphy) but mine didnt turn out so nice. I'm excited!

Making a new lampshade!

2009-07-04T11:42:00.005+08:00

The life of a missionary is not confined to just going for outreaches and preaching.

Recently, I was energised and determined to use my energy to explore new ideas and practical ways to improve things around the house. (since i'm also the house manager) And we have a big mission centre!

This lampshade has been in disrepair (see left). No one knew how to repair a broken lampshade. While researching for something else, i chanced upon this 'lampshade slip cover'. And see what a transformation!

All that was needed:
Paper
twine
cutting materials and board
single hole puncher

And here's the 'new' lamp in its old place.

For more on this:
http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/lampshade-slipcovers?autonomy_kw=lampshade%20slipcover&rsc=header_2

Photo of the month - the simple bulbul bird

2009-04-29T22:38:00.004+08:00

This is the most common bird in South east asia (i think). A bird watching told me that there are so many of them, keen bird watchers cant even estimate nor count them.

My Casio caught about 200 shots of these simple birds, thanks to a steady pillar and high speed continuous photo snapping capabilities... and of course a super 10x optical zoom.

Movie clip of the month -Is it a bird, a plane, a PYTHON!?

2009-04-29T22:21:00.004+08:00

No, i did not catch this reptile. But i did see an armed bodyguard going through the gates and pulling this humongous reptile out hanging from a 3 metre stick. (on April 18, 2009!!)

Point to note:
When asked, someone said it ate only insects.

The bodyguard said he doesn't yet know what to do about it, and then proceeded to mend the basket which previously held the snake...with the snake just a metre behind him.

i took the photo with the maximum zoom. And admired the beauty of such a reptile!

someone else might said 'Eeeeee, dont come near me!!!'.

well, one man's meat is another man's poison.

Heart wrenching True Story of the month - Life and death

2009-04-29T21:44:00.007+08:00

Just want to share a happening here with the poor we work with in the Philippines. This just happened in the last few days.

One of the earliest friends we encountered is a lady who i shall call 'Julie'. Though she's a nice lady, it was the choice she made which we could not understand, nor can we change. She was separated from her husband and went to live with a another man and had children with him. He is an alcoholic and from what we know, has been showing very young children pornography movies.

'Julie' though barely in her late 30s already has a daughter who is barely 20. we shall call her 'Ann'. Ann already has a 'husband' whom we suspect is also
not civilly married to. She already has one child with him and now with the second child. Now comes the real story.

Julie had been diagnosed with cancer for the longest time, but since they did not have money they prayed and trusted God. At the time we knew her, she was heavily pregnant. But Doctors say the baby will not survive, because her cancerous condition will not allow it, doctors even say the baby is dead inside though i don't know what tests have been done. We prayed with her and she also fervently prayed (she's still Catholic) and the baby survived and was born. This in itself is a miracle. The gift of new life.

A few months ago, 'Ann' herself, was pregnant with her 2nd child. However during her first trimester, she had to take care of her mother who became increasingly ill. 'Julie looked like she would not survive this time. She needed many blood transfusions and there is only so much funds we could raise for her. 'Julie' eventually died in a hospital fit only for the poorest people, with no privacy, no dignity, no proper health care, no mercy from her own doctors. She was just another case, another dying patient with no money.

'Ann', on the other hand, had many mixed emotions and responsibilities to carry. We can only imagine how traumatic all this is. Hence she miscarried her child. There is death, again.

Again, due to lack of finances, 'Ann' couldnt get the medical help she needed. She said 'We can only pray'. The dead foetus stayed in her womb for 2 whole months, dead. How can this be? She has put her own life in danger. Did she miscalculate the dates? Are the doctors wrong? There was no more movement in her womb.

Finally, one of our missionaries brought her, together with donated funds to the hospital. She was induced and finally, the baby can now be blessed and given a place to bury.

Questions in my mind:
What are we really fighting about? Better healthcare? or basic healthcare?
Dignity of persons, or right to abortion?
The right to live, the right to die as a human being?

Prayer:
Thank you Father God, for You alone are the one who pulled this through.To give new life in a cancerous womb. You alone sustained the mother who kept carrying a dead child in her womb. Who could live with a dead baby in the womb for 2 months if not for your providence, your hand in this? You, Father give dignity to us your children, I pray that not only do we wait for those who can make decisions to make them, but to give us opportunities to co-operate with you, in bringing a little hope, a little help to those around us, to give a little dignity to those who have none, to those who do not think they deserve it. Amen.

Quote of the month -Catherine of Sienna

2009-04-29T21:33:00.002+08:00

'If You Can Be What You Are Meant To Be, You Will Set The World On Fire'

It's Ash Wednesday.

2009-02-25T21:53:00.002+08:00

These links have been very helpful, sharing it here with you.

Our Pope's Lenten Message for 2009
http://www.catholic.org/featured/headline.php?ID=6099&page=2

What's fasting and abstinence got to do with it?
http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/fast-abstinence.html

Beginning new patterns
http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/patterns.html

= new = Stations of the CROSS
http://www.vatican.va/news_services/liturgy/2007/documents/ns_lit_doc_20070406_via-crucis_en.html

Air Pollution and other stuff

2009-02-23T11:05:00.003+08:00

I have not been blogging for some time. For those who have been asking why... well, I've not be well. If it's not a consistent cough, it's an infection of some kind. Feeling healthy is a bonus, and each day that I'm healthy, I'm grateful.

Lately I've been thinking a lot about air pollution. What kind of sicknesses are directly linked from it. A check on Wikipedia defines air pollution as :
.." the introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or biological materials that cause harm or discomfort to humans or other living organisms, or damages the natural environment, into the atmosphere."

A quick check on the public roads in Metro Manila, and one sees men, women and children, young and old, holding up hankerchieves to their mouths and noses. I for one, know for a fact, that i can choke and cough uncontrollably as a vehicle passes by. Or as the 100 plus children run around, a dust cloud becomes very visible. I'm not a special case, we all are breathing in the same air, some are just more affected than others and I blame it on my delicate lungs.

Last year, the amount of money i had spent on doctors consultations and presciptions exceeded beyond what I spent in a year for other things like government taxes, visas, air ticket home, daily expenditure. The frustration comes from not getting well, in an air environment that could have been more conducive for healing.

I've been persevering in the hope that my immunity system will buck up and fight off all the different things the the air.

Thanks for your support, do keep my health in prayer,thanks.

Our weekly children ministry!!

2009-01-13T11:24:00.003+08:00

This week we had 120 children. In this particular session there were around 80 of them. In case you are wondering, yes, that is me in the black teeshirt leading action song. hehehe.

Christmas pageant

2008-12-28T17:48:00.005+08:00

For the first time, the children wrote their own script, directed themselves with a little help from us. Their costumes were clothes with a hole cut out for their heads and a little sash for the belt, doesnt look that bad at all. And make up courtesy from our own make up palettes.

For more photos: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=78172&l=3d4ae&id=588321659

(Reverse) Carolling 2008

2008-12-28T17:34:00.007+08:00

This year, my team of 6, together with other teams went out caroling to the poorest families. These 100 plus families were recommended by our own Balikatan members in the adults ministry.

The families my team visited this year truly opened my eyes to what Mary and Joseph could have experienced. Everything looked so make-shift, so temporary. I can only imagine that even with their ‘home’ they could easily be looted from all that they own. There was no lock in place, sometimes the main ‘door’ was only a curtain.

Many of them were living in conditions that most people would not consider staying for more than a few minutes. Some homes do not even have walls, their ‘walls’ were made up of whatever they could salvage. Pieces of old material, wood, metal. It was only slightly better than a tent. Many of the children looked malnourished evident in their protruding stomachs and bulging eyes.

All of the families prayed for good health and joy in the family.

As I tried hard to hold back my own tears, the Balikatan members themselves could not hold back theirs. One family said they wanted to pray that they get to keep their home because there’s news that the land will be cleared for development. And one of our own members said “same situation as my family”.

Our loving Father really knew how to bring hope to the poor, Jesus came into our world in similar conditions, with no pillow to lay his head. Constantly on the move.

My prayer is that the poor will be empowered, those in authority will uphold integrity and look into ways of providing a better world for its citizens to live in. With job opportunities, with relocation possibilities that will enable the poor rather than place them in a position that might prove to be worse than before.

Christmas, a very good time of the year

2008-12-26T20:18:00.002+08:00

This the season, which in Philippines has been preparing itself since September. Carols, Christmas decorations have been donning buildings since 4 months ago.

This year, we outdid ourselves in all our ministries.
Balikatan (adults) ministry packed food 150 hampers and gave them all out during the reverse carolling
Children ministry similarly packed 150 presents ranging from bibles, dictionaries, stationaries to toys.
Youth ministry had a very simple Christmas get-together for the first time.

And our small community celebrated together in our usual way of celebrating life, with members and guests coming from nations:
Singapore,
Malaysia,
Indonesia,
Philippines,
The Netherlands,
Czech republic,
Korea

At the end of the day, after all that is said and done, after all the presents are given out, all the food handed out, we only need to look back at the simplicity of our Lord.

He was born in darkness, in a small smelly cold place, with only animals as witnesses.
Will he be born in our hearts, in the darkest places where no one knows? It's our choice.

http://icpephilippines.blogspot.com

2008-12-14T21:41:00.001+08:00

as defined by wikipedia : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_Christmas_traditions

Parol
Though not strictly a custom, every Christmas season, Filipino homes and buildings are adorned with beautiful star lanterns, called parol (Span. farol, meaning lantern or lamp-Merriam Webster - English English- Spanish Dictionary). The earliest parols were traditionally made from simple materials like bamboo sticks, Japanese rice paper (known as "papel de Hapon") or crepe paper, and a candle or coconut oil-lamp for illumination; although the present day parol can take many different shapes and forms. The most base form of the lantern is a 5-pointed star with two "tails" at the lower two tips. Other variations are 4, 8, 10 pointed stars with the rarer 6, 16 and so on pointed stars. The parol is also traditionally made of lacquered paper and bamboo, but others are made of cellophane, plastic, rope, capiz shell and a wide variety of materials. Making parols is a folk craft, and most Filipino kids have tried their hand at making a parol at one time or another, maybe as a school project or otherwise. The most basic parol can be easily constructed with just ten bamboo sticks, paper, and glue. These lanterns represent the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Magi, also known as the Three Wise Men or Three Kings (Tatlong Hari in Tagalog). Parols are to Filipinos as Christmas trees are to Westerners- an iconic and beloved symbol of the holiday.

2008-12-14T21:35:00.001+08:00

This is a small group of the children we work with. The Çhristmas tree is made out of string and straw and whatever material they can find.

Doing something new

2008-12-14T20:15:00.001+08:00

The gift of self

2008-12-14T18:38:00.002+08:00

This is one of our children (the older sister) who regularly attends the weekly children ministry. She is one of many children who bring their younger brothers and sisters to the sessions even though these sessions are prepared for their (9 and above) age group.

While the teachings, activities, singing is happening, these older ones take care of their younger ones as a parent would take care of their own. Often they cannot participate in games, sometimes while doing the activity, they run off halfway after the younger ones, sometimes running home for a quick change of clothes once the young ones soil them.

All part and parcel of life here.

These older ones are giving the gift of themselves, learning from this early an age the gift of self sacrifice. Often I think of children of the same age in other more progressive countries, where all they need to concentrate on is their school work and how sibling rivalry is so rampant.

2 lizards in a sink

2008-12-12T22:30:00.003+08:00

The other day, we woke up to find 2 mature size lizards in our sink. They probably fell in and couldn't climb out of the slippery sides of the sink. When we gave it a gentle probe, they didn't move, they were not dead yet but they are probably very tired from trying to escape.

Then we had a grand idea, since none of us were brave enough to handle them, and they couldn't get out, we gentle placed an old chopping board sideways into the
sink to make a 'platform' for the lizards to just walk out. Surely this 'bridge' is the best solution.

But there was no movement.

We tried talking it out, gently 'guiding' them via a soft toilet roll, reasoning with them even. But still no movement. Finally, someone hand-handled them and moved them out towards the open window.

As i reflected that day, we are like those lizards when it came to sin. We know it is sin, but we often didnt know or forget the consequences and, fell in it ourselves and can't climb out. What we needed was a helping hand, someone brave enough, strong enough to bring us out to safety. And just like the lizards, I scurry away and very soon forgot who saved me.

Jesus, you are my Savior, let me never forget that you are my loving, all sacrificing Savior.

a great day for families

2008-11-30T20:05:00.005+08:00

We had a session for families to help prepare for Christmas. Children from our children ministry brought along their parents and brothers and sisters.

We prayed for mothers, fathers, grandparents, and all the children.

The Emcee (me) welcoming all who came.

Giving a hand to families to make their wreaths.

Each family made their own advent wreaths. It only took 4 toilet rolls, some crepe paper and a paper plate.

A drama on the real meaning of Christmas.

'Mariella' - a single mother's story

2008-11-30T16:37:00.006+08:00

A few days ago, i had the opportunity to chat with 'Mariella' (not her real name). She's a lady in her mid 40s with a nursing baby at her side. As i shared my story of not experiencing Christ personally in the past, she opened up to share hers.

When she was expecting her child, she tried to abort him with all the medicines and drugs that she could get her hands on. She figured that since the child will not have a father who is available to love and care for him, and she has another daughter from another relationship, the child would be more of a burden than a gift.

The biological father of the child has another family which he is responsible for.

Now they, like many others who don't have jobs, no opportunities, have problems putting food on the table. Some of these families only eat once or twice a day. Mariella's child survived, all those drugs did not affect him, he is born healthy, with all parts intact,and no complications during child birth. He has a big will to live for his mother. Through this little baby, Mariella found joy, knowing that God provided for him while he is still in her womb, that God protected him from all effects of the drugs. The child is lovely, and very handsome, he was always smiling all the time we were talking. She gave him a name which meant 'God's gift'

My heart was so broken from hearing these stories. But also filled with hope.

So many are so broken inside, so in need of love that we (humanity) are willing to love at all costs. Even love the unavailable, emotional, physically etc To subject to risk of diseases, danger, more pain and suffering, uncertainty and hunger.

Humanity is hungry.

Mother Teresa once said 'Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.'

How do we quench this hunger?

We can start by giving kind attention to someone who needs it today. A neighbour, a class mate, a long lost friend, a family member.

We can listen, smile, give a gift of ourselves by being present to them, doing a kind act, a pat on the back, spending quality time. One never knows what an hour can mean to a lonely person.

"Time is too slow for those who wait,
too swift for those who fear,
too long for those who grieve,
too short for those who rejoice,
but for those who love, time is eternity."
- Henry Van Dyke

Just a page off my journal

2008-11-11T15:56:00.002+08:00

Psalm 37 was a reading for the day

DESERT (ED)

2008-11-10T20:53:00.002+08:00

When the heart is hard and parched up,
Come upon me with a shower of mercy.
When grace is lost from life, come with a burst of song.
When tumultuous work raises its din on all sides
Shutting me out from beyond, come to me,
My lord of silence, with thy peace and rest.
When my beggarly heart sits crouched, shut up in a corner; break open the door, my king,
And come with the ceremony of a king.
When desire blinds the mind with delusion and dust,
O thou holy one, thou wakeful,
Come with thy light and thy thunder.

Rabindranath Tagore
Gitanjali – “Song of offerings”

Why are we friends?

2008-11-10T20:48:00.006+08:00

Excerpts from ‘I love you, I hate you’ by Carlos Valles

‘As our personality is varied and complex, we need different persons in our lives to respond to the different aspects of our character. We may find one friend more amenable to discussing our ideas with, while another may be a genial companion in games but may not respond to an intellectual exchange of any kind. One friendship may be more affective, another more entertaining, a third one more cerebral. We like to joke with some of our friends and be serious with others. IN fact, one good way to measure the closeness of a friendship is to see how many aspects it covers, how many facets of our personality are reflected in that friend, in how many of the circumstances of life we seek his or her company. We are many things to many people, and the more things we are to one particular individual, the closer will he or she be to us, and we to him or her. The ideal friend covers all our life with his or her affection, understanding, patience, silence, conversation, sympathy, criticism, partnership in games, company in travels, care in sickness, echo in laughter. The more of our life we can share with a single individual, the more intimate the friendship will be, and since often we may not find that universal response in one person, we widen the range of our friendship and open up different angels of our life to different people to fit into them and complete between them the circle of intimacy we need for our happiness and well being.

Photo credit: Therese
Place: Tagaytay, Philippines

Teeming with life!

2008-11-09T12:19:00.005+08:00

My reflection on Ezekiel 47: 8-12
“This water flows … and flowing into the sea it makes it waters wholesome. Wherever the river flows, all living creatures teeming in it will live. Fish will be very plentiful, for wherever the water goes it brings health, and life teems wherever the river flows.”

In many tribes, whenever they settled, they would choose it to be near a river. The river brings much needed water and food. The river provides a place to meet while doing the laundry. A place to play, to hunt.

Is it any coincidence that 80% of our bodies are made up of water?

Christ has Himself said “but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” John 4:14

This river of life is very much available to us, whenever we partake of the Holy Eucharist, whenever we let the Word of God sink deeper into our souls, when we keep our focus on Him, when we look at our future with hope (in Him), we are opening ourselves up to ‘LIFE’. When i was sick, i had no life in me, i was 'teaming' with disillusion, disappointment, anger. Why do i need to be sick at this important time? But even then, i can either choose to use my waking hours to read on spiritual books, pray OR sulk and pout. I wanted to choose life.

‘Fish will be plentiful’. God has, out of his generosity given us each unique gifts. ‘What do we have that He has not give, what do we have that is not already Yours?’ Our ‘5 loaves and 2 fish’; the gifts which He himself has given us are meant for sharing, for building up his Kingdom. And in this light, our little ‘fish’ (gifts, talents) will be plentiful as we gather in one body to serve Him. ‘To those who have, more will be given’. My piano playing skills are not up to scratch, i am self taught and i often feel self conscious playing in front of people who are trained to played Bach and Tchaikovsky, but i relented and started playing for my community. Many have since told me they were ministered to during those moments. God multiplies! i only need to put in my small part, and big effort.

‘It brings health’. More than physical health, we will have emotional healthy, spiritual health!

We have great opportunities in our midst!

Story of the month - Carl's garden

2008-11-07T08:18:00.004+08:00

Carl was a quiet man. He didn't talk much. He would always greet you with a big smile and a firm handshake.Even after living in our neighborhood for over 50 years, no one could really say they knew him very well.Before his retirement, he took the bus to work each morning. The lone sight of him walking down the street often worried us.He had a slight limp from a bullet wound received in WWII.Watching him, we worried that although he had survived WWII, he may not make it through our changing uptown neighborhood with its ever-increasing random violence, gangs, and drug activity.

When he saw the flyer at our local church asking for volunteers for caring for the gardens behind the minister's residence, he responded in his characteristically unassuming manner. Without fanfare, he just signed up.He was well into his 87th year when the very thing we had always feared finally happened.He was just finishing his watering for the day when three gang members approached him. Ignoring their attempt to intimidate him, he simply asked, 'Would you like a drink from the hose?'

The tallest and toughest-looking of the three said, 'Yeah, sure,' with a malevolent little smile.As Carl offered the hose to him, the other two grabbed Carl's arm, throwing him down. As the hose snaked crazily over the ground, dousing everything in its way, Carl's assailants stole his retirement watch and his wallet, and then fled.Carl tried to get himself up, but he had been thrown down on his bad leg. He lay there trying to gather himself as the minister came running to help him.

Although the minister had witnessed the attack from his window, he couldn't get there fast enough to stop it.'Carl, are you okay? Are you hurt?' the minister kept asking as he helped Carl to his feet.Carl just passed a hand over his brow and sighed, shaking his head. 'Just some punk kids. I hope they'll wise-up someday.'His wet clothes clung to his slight frame as he bent to pick up the hose. He adjusted the nozzle again and started to water.Confused and a little concerned, the minister asked, 'Carl, what are you doing?' 'I've got to finish my watering. It's been very dry lately,' came the calm reply.
Satisfying himself that Carl really was all right, the minister could only marvel. Carl was a man from a different time and place.

A few weeks later the three returned. Just as before their threat was
unchallenged. Carl again offered them a drink from his hose.This time they didn't rob him. They wrenched the hose from his hand and drenched him head to foot in the icy water.When they had finished their humiliation of him, they sauntered off down the street, throwing catcalls and curses, falling over one another laughing at the hilarity of what they had just done.

Carl just watched them. Then he turned toward the warmth giving sun, picked up his hose, and went on with his watering.The summer was quickly fading into fall. Carl was doing some tilling when he was startled by the sudden approach of someone behind him. He stumbled and fell into someevergreen branches.As he struggled to regain his footing, he turned to see the tall leader of his summer tormentors reaching down for him. He braced himself for the expected attack.

'Don't worry old man, I'm not gonna hurt you this time.'
The young man spoke softly, still offering the tattooed and scarred hand to Carl. As he helped Carl get up, the man pulled a crumpled bag from his pocket and handed it to Carl.'What's this?' Carl asked. 'It's your stuff,' the man explained. 'It's your stuff back. Even the money in your wallet.' 'I don't understand,' Carl said. 'Why would you help me now?'

The man shifted his feet, seeming embarrassed and ill at ease. 'I learned something from you,' he said. 'I ran with that gang and hurt people like you. We picked you because you were old and we knew we could do it. But every time we came and did something to you, instead of yelling and fighting back, you tried to give us a drink. You didn't hate us for hating you. You kept showing love against our hate.'He stopped for a moment. 'I couldn't sleep after we stole your stuff, so here it is back.'He paused for another awkward moment, not knowing what more there was to say. 'That bag's my way of saying thanks for straightening me out, I guess.' And with that, he walked off down the street.Carl looked down at the sack in his hands and gingerly opened it. He took out his retirement watch and put it back on his wrist. Opening his wallet, he checked for his wedding photo. He gazed for a moment at the young bride that still smiled back at him from all those years ago.

He died one cold day after Christmas that winter. Many people attended his funeral in spite of the weather.In particular the minister noticed a tall young man that he didn't know sitting quietly in a distant corner of the church.The minister spoke of Carl's garden as a lesson in life.In a voice made thick with unshed tears, he said, 'Do your best and make your garden as beautiful as you can. We will never forget Carl and his garden.'

The following spring another flyer went up. It read: 'Person needed to care for Carl's garden.'The flyer went unnoticed by the busy parishioners until one day when a knock was heard at the minister's office door.Opening the door, the minister saw a pair of scarred and tattooed hands holding the flyer. 'I believe this is my job, if you'll have me,' the young man said.The minister recognized him as the same young man who had returned the stolen watch and wallet to Carl.He knew that Carl's kindness had turned this man's life around. As the minister handed him the keys to the garden shed, he said, 'Yes, go take care of Carl's garden and honour him.'

The man went to work and, over the next several years, he tended the flowers and vegetables just as Carl had done.During that time, he went to college, got married, and became a prominent member of the community. But he never forgot his promise to Carl's memory and kept the garden as beautiful as he thought Carl would have kept it.One day he approached the new minister and told him that he couldn't care for the garden any longer. He explained with a shy and happy smile, 'My wife just had a baby boy last night, and she's bringing him home on Saturday.'

'Well, congratulations!' said the minister, as he was handed the garden shed keys. 'That's wonderful! What's the baby's name?'
'Carl,' he replied

Thought for the day

2008-11-07T08:17:00.001+08:00

We are ever being born, or dying, and the thrill of choosing which is ours. Only once must we be born without our own consent. Only once must we die without our own permission.

-Calvin Miller

Being a light

2008-11-01T17:50:00.003+08:00

I had been making dipping candles. They are so-called because the way to make them is to dip it, wait a few seconds for it to cool and then dip again. And this goes on for 20 dips.

A revelation came to me.

As we are called to be the 'Light of the world'. We are the wick, we could easily just burn down as quickly as we are lit (without the wax). But God is the wax that surrounds us, layer by layer, with love, patience, grace, delight, mercy etc.

And so only with these can we burn more brightly, with His grace, his wax. Burning slowly, brightly.

At the end of my life, with his grace, encouragement, mercy, we would have been able to be His light. And even after we are totally gone, He would still be there, the wax still there at the bottom of the candle.

Without him we can do nothing.

Above all Powers

2008-08-04T19:44:00.002+08:00

My room is on the fourth floor facing a little road where telephone poles line the streets. After rainy days the little bulbul birds like to ‘sit’ along the telephone lines. It’s almost like gathering of friends after a storm to share a sigh of relief. There is one particular pole that seems to catch my eye every time I sit down to write or work on my computer. Atop that wooden beam, I often see two of these birds perched. Sometimes they disappear into the pole, and so my only guess is that they’ve got a home, a nest right there at the top of the hollowed pole. This is the monsoon season, it rains daily sometimes all night and all day. And I wonder whether the little home is flooded, whether there are little chicks there and whether they are warm enough.

But as these photos will tell you, they are very resilient. But more than that it is a reminder of God’s providence. “You made us, we belong to you” “You made all living things and you constantly provide for their growth.” Even on cloudy days, rainy days, extremely hot days, everyday, we are well taken care of. No doubt about that.

God Provides

2008-08-04T07:59:00.003+08:00

For the past few weeks, due to some administrative problems we had not been able to use the usual venue for our children’s ministry. From week to week, we have been praying for God to provide a way for us. We have 3 sessions on a regular Saturday and it’s not an easy task trying to secure one venue for it. Having a regular venue also means that all the children will know where to go, since for the most part, we only know where we are going to hold the sessions when we arrive.

Last Saturday, one of the children’s lola (grand mother) offered us their simple home. It’s a 3 x 4 metre room which doubles up as a living room by day and a bedroom by night. At a corner is the toilet, covered by a small curtain. And in this simple home, we had our session.

With 27 children, 6 adults, furniture, a cat and a rooster at the back yard. Most of the children sat on the floor, some sat on the stairs leading to the attic.

In this space, we praised and worshipped God, we learnt about being a ‘Disciple of Christ’ a teaching by Celine. We shared about our World Youth Day experience in Australia and shared snacks. We even managed to have small groups sharing, and a presentation of skits that the children came up with. What a gift! To be part of the lives of people, to be offered their homes when we had no where to turn to, to have warm shelter while a storm is happening outside. God hears the cry of His people, and He alone provides all our needs.

Royal Botanic Gardens vs Vigil (WYD08)

2008-07-31T10:16:00.001+08:00

Typically, a sleep out vigil happens at World Youth Days. Since some of us already suffered colds, it was in our best interest not to subject ourselves to a cold night out under the stars. Instead we visited the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The garden was vast and when we arrived that evening at 5.30pm, families with strollers, joggers, couples were taking walks. And we simply enjoyed the slow walk, marveling at the century old trees, the bent-over ‘Dragon Blood’ tree.

Just then a ranger car drove past with a loud hailer announcement: “The park will be closing in 5 minutes, please make your way to the nearest exit.” It was 6pm.

*Gulp* Where IS the nearest exit? The more we walked the darker it got. Then I noticed there are not a single lamp post in sight. If we don’t get out, we’ll be in a pitch dark garden, with no sleeping bag, no warm clothing. We’d be forced to ‘camp out’. Wouldn’t this be a real irony that we ‘escaped’ the vigil to be ‘stuck’ in an involuntary camp out?

Soon enough we found the exit, following out instincts.

Days later, I read it in a magazine that
“The Royal Botanic Gardens reluctantly hosts 11,000 grey-headed flying foxes, numbers have tripled in the past decade and they’re overwhelming and killing off historic Palm Grove, a world-renowned tree collection dating to 1828. Gardens authorities are determined to uproot them, so marvel at Sydney’s largest concentration of wild native mammals while you still can. www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au”

Too bad we couldn’t stay to ‘marvel’ at 11,000 flying foxes. Thanks but no thanks 

A masterpiece in an orange

2008-07-25T16:44:00.003+08:00

I ate my 2nd orange today… in my entire life. Peeling an orange is a new experience for me. Looking at the insides, the ‘anatomy’ of the simple orange is intriguing. It actually isn’t so ‘simple’. Beneath the peel of just a few milimetres lies sacs neatly packed side by side, within this sacs lay even more mini-sacs. I wanted to count how many pulps there were within each neat portion and gave up after a while, its impossible to count as you orange lovers can imagine. The juice is so... well juicy, and yet it was well protected by the peel and the even thinner membrane of the pulp.

This is a masterpiece! Well designed, environmentally friendly, its ‘packaging’ will not strangle any seals/dolphins. It even leaves a refreshing fragrance on your hands after you’ve savoured it. Like a little ‘Thank you’, a great ‘after-sales service’.

Thank You God for your Ingenuity. Thank You for providing Vitamin C is such a neat little package.

The Uniforms

2008-07-23T20:41:00.002+08:00

We were exceptionally impressed by the New South Wales police force. During the "receive the power live' concert, many inflatable balls were thrown around, and many a time it landed on the 'zone'. Strips of paths meant for emergencies, ambulance, Pope motorcade etc. But the police personnel were always obliging and picked up every single time without complaints. So accomodating!

They exhibited a great deal of tolerance, courtesy and handled the event very professionally, and kept all of us safe. Speaking to these two, I learnt that they worked 10 hour days, 10 days in a row without an off day! Thanks so much!

Cold hail and Warm feelings

2008-07-23T14:16:00.004+08:00

While we were in Bendigo,Victoria, Australia, it suddenly rained hail! The first thing in my mind and 'head for shelter'! and pointed out a bookshop that was about 50metres away.

We were dripping wet and there were about 10 of us in that small shop. I know that i cannot pretend I want to buy something, so I apologised to the shop assistant. Instead of chasing us out (as i would imagine in some other countries), she smiled very warmly and welcomed us. I explained that we were a group of missionaries and what we did. The shop, as we learnt later is a resource for learning. And shortly after, these ladies gladly gave me a pack of 'Feeling Cards' as a resource for our children ministry! These can be used internationally since they didnt have any words! And what a gift this is!

After returning back to the group and showing them the gift, they all were very amazed and surprised, this was exactly what we have been looking for, for a long long time. And this may not be something we can afford at that moment.

So thanks Nola and Christina for your kindness, your warm hearts melted the hailstones on our backs. God bless you!

World Youth Day 2008

2008-07-17T10:30:00.005+08:00

We're in Sydney! World Youth Day(WYD) is an event held every 3 years in a different country. The last WYD was held in Cologne, Germany in 2005.

This time WYD is held in Sydney. Our little group left Manila for Melbourne first for the 'Days in Diocese'. Many events were held in various venues, various parishes.

The ICPE Mission (which i belong to) held our inaugural Youth Fest there. It was 2 full days of teachings, sharings, networking, fun and games. check out the website: www.firebrandz.net there's also a whole lot of photos in the gallery. check it out.

Returning to Melbourne after 10 years was an interesting experience. I remember the winters well, and was very hesitant about facing it. But i willingly packed my thermals, hot water bag, warm sleeping bag and got ready.

But the first thing that hit me is not the cold. But the warmth of the people who welcomed us, made sure we had a host family (thanks Charlie Gatt), made sure we are fed (thanks to the kitchen team), made sure we had a lift home (thanks Dan Perera!), made sure we had a warm home to go back to (thanks Cluny Sisters! love ya!), made sure we had food to eat for our 10 hour bus ride to Sydney (Thanks Alex and Joe Yap). Thank you Castellon family (Kuya Jun, Ate Paulina, Gretchen and Lorraine) who made us feel so much a part of your family. Maraming Salamat po. Pagpalain ka ng Diyos. And many countless volunteers who laid out snacks, set up chairs, vacuumed carpets when everyone went home, did all the behind-the-scenes work, stayed up late waiting for pilgrims to arrive, worked overtime without pay, and those who have kept us in prayer. Thank you thank you thank you!

For more information on WYD, check out the official website: www.wyd2008.org

Back to School Mass

2008-07-02T21:01:00.005+08:00

Unlike some other countries, the new school semester here in the Philippines start in June, end of 'summer'. We thought it might a cool idea to have a special mass for the children. They were also very excited to be actively involved in this special Eucharistic celebration. Normally, children are not so involved, but in this one, they were involved in reading the Word of God at the pulpit, the offertory procession and even signed 'the Lord's Prayer' in sign language in front of the altar! For weeks before this, the children were prepared spiritually with a clearly understanding of this special celebration.

At the end, we gave out blessed pencils, specially hand painted by our team members as a souvenir of the event.

Library with 6 books

2008-06-17T23:11:00.003+08:00

We started a trial run for books that we received from donors. The trial is only with 6 books and even while we were explaining the borrowing system, the kids were already eyeing on them! At the word ‘Go’, all the books were snapped up that morning. When we met them again later that afternoon, they were still hanging on to their books carefully, devouring every word. Here’s how some kids were enjoying their book!

Catechism under the trees

2008-06-17T22:57:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday was the usual day filled the the unusual excitement in the air. School's reopened. Over here in the Philippines, the new school year starts at the end of 'summer'. So June marks the start of a new promotion to the next grade.

It was my turn to give a teaching. As usual, our 'class' was held in a little front porch of Auntie Bing's home. The children were spared of the heat with the help of the shady trees above. Since there is no chalk board/white board. We came up with the idea of using Bing's clothes line. And here i am giving my teaching with a carbon board and big clothes pegs (from Singapore) and my teaching slowly being revealed line by line as i 'unroll' it as i teach.

Some people might say 'Ay, these children so poor thing' or 'What ancient methods to use'... while the latter might be true, we thoroughly enjoy ourselves, the children do not mind it too much. We're just happy to be there amongst friends.

Seen are some more teaching materials. All hand made lovingly by Chris, our other team member. We make full use of what we have!

Life in the Spirit Seminar for YOUTH!

2008-06-11T22:27:00.006+08:00

The long awaited Life in the Spirit Seminar finally arrived and around 30 young people, both participants and youth service staff, descended upon our mission centre for the three and a half day seminar.

These glorious days were fun filled with laughter, fellowship around meals, sessions on God's love, Holy Spirit, New Life, Growth etc, evenings of prayer.

God has been really faithful, even while we, his creation has been unfaithful, sometimes even forgetful that He is the one who loves us first. Time again, God shows us that He can transform lives once we are open to experience a new life. If we want it, He can give it.

We have seen how faces have slowly slowly day by day changed into cheerful happy youths, all within a short few days. As Jesus died and rose in 3 days, we too can resurrect with him in 3 days! Yeah!

God creates us special

2008-04-06T18:39:00.006+08:00

'Ako ay espesyal!' (I am special! in tagalog)

This week's session was a reminder of God's special love for each one of us children. Our skit for the day was based loosely on the children's story by Max Lucado called 'You are special'.

This was also the same weekend we witnessed and participated in a funeral mass. The mother of one of our children passed away because of complications in her health. She was only 41 years old. Leaving behind young children and a husband. Already in our present world, very few people around us would affirm us of our 'uniqueness' and 'specialness', if ever, they would have come from our own parents and when we were young. reflecting on this child's life without a parent now, i wonder...

Thank you Lord for every moment i could spend with my family. To cherish the numbered days, to practise patience remembering that i cannot take each day for granted.

Finding new gifts

2008-03-24T15:24:00.004+08:00

Although I used to work professionally as an art director, I have no need to be good at illustration/drawings. All of my work is in my head and i only need to put it out there on the computer.

But now, new sides of this creativity has shown itself in ways i 'knew' i didnt have a talent for. Seen here is the most recent illustration of the empty tomb, coloured in by all the children who came. Pictured here is Franchesaca aged 9.

This is April. She is aged 3. One of those who brighten up my day with her generous smile. On this day, we had to share space at the basketball court with basketballers. Our 'classroom' suddenly had other on-lookers, no chairs nor tables. So everyone ended up colouring on the court itself.

Easter!

2008-03-24T14:57:00.005+08:00

Sharing of the word, seen here is Amilia (in red) a missionary based in Singapore, and Celine, full time missionary in Manila.

The 3 bibles were shared among the children and they read the passage from John.

Crossword puzzle to find words relating to Easter.

'Mary Magdalene (me) cries at the empty tomb.

'Colour-by-number'

It is always a blessing to be able to share and witness the simplicity of children. Throughout the season of Lent, we had been moving them towards a better understanding or clear up misconceptions of the season.

Last week, even though it was Holy Saturday, we prepared the children for Easter! Hence we took the opportunity to incorporate the solemnity of it by not playing musical instruments. We re-enacted The Empty Tomb scene. Usually these little drama plays are not rehearsed and we too just enjoy ourselves interacting with the children. The activities were based on 'finding'. One game was to find the exact candy that had their name on it. Another was a 'colour by number' colouring activity, they had to look for the colour relating to the numbers within the picture.

Lent: The Stations of our life

2008-03-02T12:28:00.004+08:00

It just amazes me that someone brilliant once thought of doing this as a rememberance of Christ's ultimate relationship with us, enough to sacrifice everything, leaving nothing.

There was a story about a man, his mother and his girlfriend all in a boat that was in the middle of a storm. The boat tossed everyone overboard and the man got back on but the boat is beyond its original capacity. There can only be one more. Who will it be? Mother? or girlfriend? I always thought it be so romantic to be the one who is saved. But on the other hand how ungrateful he would be if he didnt save his own mother.

My answer came. Jesus would have given up his own place, to let all go on board and choose to die instead. What a guy!

Looking through all the different methods, reflections, i found one that i adapted to suit our youth. One that reflects on our own lives. The 14 stations were strategically positioned around the various parts of the house, the last station ended in an open roof deck with a view of the sky. A time of thanksgiving with songs and personal prayer was held at the chapel. In the serene presence of our Lord.

"I had a very peaceful, wonderful moment (during the Stations of the Cross)" Said one of the youth, Key Ann.

"It was a good and perfect moment that reminded me of all the good that has happened to me. It is a good reflection before Holy Week. It has helped me to repent, give thanks to God and to all the people around me" Ghel

Thank you Lord for your victory over death, your unsurpassable love for us. Thank you for embracing the cross. That in your death, we might have life.

One of the stations around the house

Quote of the month

2008-03-02T12:26:00.002+08:00

"Don't just be an aging female—learn to be a real woman.'"

This quote speaks to me especially when i celebrate a new phase of life. This month marks my birthday. And yes. I am still learning to be the woman i have been created to be. Thank God that we always have opportunities!

Thanks for the journals

2008-02-27T11:55:00.004+08:00

We have been journeying together with these youth, some for 2 years now. I have the privilege of hearing some of their precious stories and I must say I have been blessed to witness the transforming changes that many have gone through. Though we meet them sometimes only once a month, it is amazing what the desire and will of a young soul can do, create spaces in their lives and hearts for God, for themselves, for their loved ones.

" I would like to give thanks to those who have been really supportive and with their open hands helped out other people. The journals have helped us especially in writing down notes of the good things and low points of the day, but most especially it is one of the many ways to communicate with God" Angel

Seen here is a session on 'creative journalling', awareness, lectio divina with music, photo reflection etc.

Here's a big thank you to those who have pledged monies towards buying journals for these youths. All 25 of them have received new journals bought by your contribution. The journals will help them chart their spiritual walk, become more aware of where they are, and serves as a tool for reflecting on the day to day blessings. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. Maraming Salamat Po!

Preparing for Lent

2008-02-24T11:34:00.003+08:00

How does one bring the story of the Prodigal son to children? I updated the story with modern scenarios, which involved the son stealing from the father, womanising, begging in the streets etc. finally walking over highways, small villages and coming home to daddy.

Here's an activity for the kids, try helping him find his way home!

Drawing cartoons is part of my journalling, however this is the first time I am able to string a story line together in cartoon form. God's good! He helped me!

Preparing for Lent

2008-02-24T11:27:00.004+08:00

When it comes to children, I realised I use a different part of my brain for preparing the ministry. The last two weeks we have been preparing the kids for Lent. Not all of them have undergone cathechism for First Holy Communion. So we started from scratch.

We prepared a memory game, much like 'Wheel of Fortune' except, cards are opened and revealed for 5 secs. The children then have to remember which two numbered cards are identical. They were screaming and putting their hands up enthusiastically to answer.

Since we ddnt have a board, we asked the kids to volunteer holding the cards. Here's a photo of them. If you look closely you will spot a child holding her little 5 month old sister. This is common in our children ministry, the older siblings taking care of their younger ones while trying to enjoy themselves.

Children Ministry- 2 Feb 2008

2008-02-04T11:40:00.000+08:00

This is the first ministry time since the I arrived in Manila. And what a blast it was.

When we arrived after the one hour drive, we discovered through one of the children that the usual tuition centre is not available for use. And at the other venue, a public basketball court, a party conducted by the village was held. So we, together with the 140 children walked the 100metres to an open air public playground, but still we had to go to the other side of the village to seek permission from the village ‘head’. Though this is not the best of venues, we had a place!

The theme for this week was ‘Noah’s Ark’.
We started with an action song. Followed by a short teaching of Noah’s Ark and God’s love and compassion. Then came activity time, a small sheet of paper with an animal drawn on it was given to each child. Actually, they all tried to snatch the papers, we couldn’t give it out quick enough! The crayons were quickly distributed, short of a fight. After the pieces were carefully coloured they were cut and pasted onto a 2-metre sheet of ‘Manila’ paper. Just look at the picture, isn’t it just beautiful?

Let’s keep praying for a venue that we can depend on. A place we can sing action songs and dance freely with all the children.

The Summon

2008-01-26T23:34:00.000+08:00

This hymn touched me in a very real, very particular way. Just thought i share it :) God bless.

1. Will you come and follow me if I but call your name?
Will you go where you don't know and never be the same?
Will you let my love be shown? Will you let my name be known,
will you let my life be grown in you and you in me?

2. Will you leave yourself behind if I but call your name?
Will you care for cruel and kind and never be the same?
Will you risk the hostile stare should your life attract or scare?
Will you let me answer prayer in you and you in me?

3. Will you let the blinded see if I but call your name?
Will you set the prisoners free and never be the same?
Will you kiss the leper clean and do such as this unseen,
and admit to what I mean in you and you in me?

4. Will you love the "you" you hide if I but call your name?
Will you quell the fear inside and never be the same?
Will you use the faith you've found to reshape the world around,
through my sight and touch and sound in you and you in me?

5. Lord your summons echoes true when you but call my name.
Let me turn and follow you and never be the same.
In Your company I'll go where Your love and footsteps show.
Thus I'll move and live and grow in you and you in me.

Giving from the heart. A heart warming email

2008-01-23T16:48:00.000+08:00

I received an email that brought me to tears... here's an excerpt (used with permission, name omitted to protect privacy)

"I heard you speak in church on Sunday mass and I cried with you. You are doing a wonderful job for our lord and he is with you all the way. At present I'm out of work of my own choosing and it makes me sad because I will be able to find another job tommorrow. In the Phillipines there's no such choices the people continue to suffer …

Yesterday I gave my last $20 to your good cause and it made me very happy. I know in my heart that the children will benefit it more than I do. I thank God that I was born in Singapore, it's not that I never suffered in life it's just that I know there are people more worse off than me. I will pray for you and hopefully when I'm better off I will do my best to contribute to your good cause and may God Bless you and keep you"

Thank you! And keep your emails coming. God bless.

A Big Thank you!

2008-01-22T14:04:00.000+08:00

Thank you all for your support and generosity at the Church of the Risen Christ last weekend. It is a great blessing for all the people who will be benefitting from this. I can't wait to go back and tell them the good news, and i can already foresee happy faces lighting up. On their behalf we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Some of you have some great ideas, do keep them coming via email. Some might be more feasible than others, but i really appreciate every email and phone call. And i will reply them all. Some of you have offered clothes, toys etc, unfortunately i cannot bring them all with me, i wish i could! Some of you have contributed specifically to the monthly children's birthday party, now we might even have enough to make bigger cakes and get a simple present.

Some have come forward to sponsor a child.
As in the song 'I the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry'...I'm sure this desire to support a child/teenager is put into your heart by God himself. As for details of how much, covering what, how to send etc, You will be emailed at a later date. Thank you for bearing with me.

To all friends who have helped at the church. Maraming Salamat po! BIG BIG thank you to you, without you i would not be able to talk to anyone nor be enabled to fund raise at all. You have also contributed directly to the missionary work.

To all my personal friends and some new friends who have come forward to support the day to day living expenses of missionary life, i thank you for enabling me to continue being a missionary full time. Your support means i can pay for the various fees, government taxes, visa applications and renewal, air ticket back to singapore once a year, and other day to day neccesities. This year I will also be leading a group from the Philippines to participate in the World Youth Day in Sydney. Part of this cost has already been raised. Thank you thank you so much.

Some of you are interested in what goes behind being a missionary, watch for this blog at a later date as i write more about day to day living in a missionary community.

In the meantime, i hope that every trinket/ear rings/keychain is a joy for you to witness Christ in your homes, workplace, among your family, friends and colleagues.

Through the miles, we're separated only by a prayer. God bless you all.

Text (sms) of the Day

2008-01-19T10:05:00.000+08:00

Sometimes the road may be lonesome.
Take courage and always remember...
love isn't just for a day.

Quote of the day

2008-01-18T11:03:00.000+08:00

Sometimes we think we have so little.
Little blessings
Little work
Little salary
Little allowance

But if we start to appreciate the 'little' things in life
We will find that we have SO MUCH
family, friends,
SO MUCH love

If we don't appreciate what we already have today, we will never feel we have enough for tomorrow.

Christmas 'Reverse' Caroling

2008-01-16T14:35:00.001+08:00

Carolling!
A couple of weeks back, we packed food into plastic bags enough for a spagetti meal which most of those we reach out to will not have. This food 'hamper' also included canned food, daily neccesities like sugar, etc. Then off we went, together with guitars in hand, members of our parents group and some of their children came carolling with us! But this is a different kind, in reverse, instead of receiving money for our song and dance, we gave them! Many of those we visited did not know how to react, were pleasantly surprised, many cried, many were touched.

One of the parents who came with us said "We are poor too, but it's so good to go to the poorest of the poor and still be able to give". How true, everyone has enough to give, if it comes from our hearts, we always have more than enough.

New Year for youth

2008-01-16T14:30:00.001+08:00

New year for the youth
Last week, together with my team, we lead the youth into a time of reflection for the 2007 and goal setting for 2008. And a time of giving thanks for the gift of each other and asking for forgiveness for the past year. This year we continue to hope to give them more of Jesus. Another Life in the Spirit Seminar for the new ones and those who did not have the resources to attend last year. In a couple of weeks, i also hope to be able to give each of them a journal. For many in Singapore, journalling is a matter of having time or not. But for these youth, it could just be a question of having a book to journal or not. I hope to be able to raise some money to buy a decent book for each of them to journal in a couple of weeks.

World Youth Day
Many have registered, but it would take a miracle to raise all the money to pay for it. It costs about a paid worker's 8 month pay to go for World Youth Day in Sydney. What more these youths who are still in college/school. Yet having attended WYD in 1997, i know how much it can change a person's outlook in life. And I desire so much for those who desire to go to have the resources to go. Do keep us in your prayer for the finances to come. If you are in Manila, and want to join us, we will go to Melbourne for the ICPE Festival and join the Days in Diocese before going to Sydney for the WYD proper. See you there.

Children Christmas party

2008-01-16T14:27:00.001+08:00

For many of these children, a fast food meal is a celebration. The team managed to raise enough funds to enable each child to have a pack of 'Jolibee' the Filipino version of MacDonald's. Each child also received a gift pack of simple school stationary. We played games, sang carols, danced action songs. Generally having a ball of a time. They were all so excited, they came in the best clothes they had! A once a year event!

Life in the Spirit Seminar July 2007

2007-12-21T21:04:00.000+08:00

2007 Highlights

2007-12-21T20:59:00.000+08:00

His promise: I'll be there for you.

2007-07-07T15:46:00.000+08:00

For some time i have been involved with the children ministry more intensively. It's really sweet to have a child run up only to give the biggest hug he/she can give. Not forgetting the toothless smile (from having weak teeth) and then have them sit on your lap the whole two hours and just being contented. Even though we dont speak the same language, we have an understanding no one can take away.

Just last week, this one particular child tried 'interviewing' me in Tagalog, asking me questions like whether there is snow in Singapore, whether i have a husband, and how come Singaporeans dont speak Tagalog. So many questions, so little time. And even though there is also a possibility she might not remember my name in a couple of years, but I sincerely hope that she will remember that there is Someone (our Father God) who does love her... very much and will be there for her for the rest of her life.

Never giving up on people

2007-06-27T10:51:00.000+08:00

I had a pot of soil that doesn’t seem to be growing anything well. Perhaps it had lost its nutrient content. To test it out, I decided to pull out some weeds from another pot and transplanted it there. Weeds will live in any kind of conditions, they’re resilient.

As the days went by, the weeds shot up faster than before. Then finally about 2 weeks later, it started FLOWERING!

These are not weeds at all! They were flowering seeds that laid sleeping for the longest time. While the other shoots (in the other pot) had flowered and died, these three ‘weeds’ took their time and now, they are my proudest addition.

What would seemingly look like ‘weeds’ may actually be the crowning glory. Never give up.

What seemingly looked like dead under the soil may actually be a late bloomer. Never give up.

What looked like ‘dead soil’ without nutrients may surprise with what more they can contribute to the growth of others. Never give up.

To all those who think they don’t have any talent, gifts, drive etc, never give up. You may be a late bloomer.

To all those who feel they have nothing else to offer to society. Dig deep, you will find something surprising.

To all those who have not given up on me; waited for me to bloom, not judged me based on what I could do; but letting me go at my pace of growing in music, leadership, etc my deepest heartfelt thank you for never giving up on me.

Quote of the day

2007-05-05T16:18:00.000+08:00

"Decide what to do and DO IT. Decide what not to do and DON'T DO IT"

Missing the mark

2007-04-12T19:39:00.000+08:00

I was trekking in New Zealand in 1996. In our group, each person was assigned a role; there was a leader, a cook, a first-aider, a navigator etc. The leader’s job is to make sure everyone is safe and going in the same direction so that we can get to our destination on time. Sometimes it was because it would be dangerous to walk after sundown because of snakes or animals. Other times, it would be because we needed to reach a certain summit so that we can complete the trek in the days allocated. But the navigator’s job is irreplaceable. His job is to be alert of his surroundings, make sure he reads the map correctly and directs all of us, including the leader to the right direction. Unlike the city, we don’t have landmarks like buildings to look out for, in the forest, the navigator looks out for peaks of mountains, knolls, valleys. Looking and rechecking his compass at small intervals of the trek. He reconfirms with the actual vegetation and plant life that we are in the right direction. Our navigator for this trip however was a person who thought he knew a lot. He didn’t check his compass nor map very much. He led us ‘by instinct’. He was a person who likes trekking, and he treks very often. Once, we stopped and he looked at the map, and we walked for a long time before all of us felt we were on the wrong track. He still persisted on trekking ahead without the map. When we finally insisted on stopping, we discovered we had veered miles OFF the trail we intended, and had to back-trek all the way, wasting previous time and endangering the lives of all of us. We were all hungry, nervous of unfamiliar surroundings, and mostly angry at the guy who thought he knew. We had ‘missed the mark’. If only the map was checked more carefully and regularly, we would have been on the right track.

Sin is like that. Once we become complacent, started thinking we are ok, give an inch here an inch there, and before we know it, we’re deep into it. No one has never fallen off the track. However the good news is that with God, we always have a U-turn. We can always back trek, re-examine, go back on track.

Going for the Goal!

2007-03-20T12:21:00.000+08:00

And it’s lift off! Going for the goal
Flying on the plane from Singapore to Manila, it took the usual amount of patience to wait for the other remaining passengers to board. Then for all the flight attendants to check that everything is in order. All this waiting is coupled with excitement, a sense of adventure, a certain unknowing.

The plane finally taxis from its lot, slowly, carefully, inching its way toward the runway. After a short pause at the start of the runway, it gathers all the speed it can muster and races itself to the end of the runway, giving it all it has. Finally, after an extremely short, but exhilarating 30 seconds, it lifts itself off the ground and ventures off into the clear blue skies. Leaving land and country, to a new territory, a new adventure, a new phase, new people, new direction, new goals.

It is this short 30 seconds that I feel my ears plug up, my body giving itself a jerk, a little churning in the stomach. And my mind says ‘This is it, we’re on our way, there’s no turning back now’.

Setting a goal, having a vision
It is like the plane on taxi. Slowly, surely, it takes time to listen to the voice inside. It takes careful consideration, praying and waiting for direction, to be really convicted with the goal in mind. And even at the start of the runway, at the short pause of waiting, it is psyching oneself up for the challenge. There can be no courage without fear.

There is no turning back
At the word ‘Go’, there is no turning back. Once the mind is made up, with full conviction, we move ahead, no matter what comes in the way. As John Maxwell said in his book ‘Be all you can be’, “The poorest person in the world is not the person who doesn’t have a nickel. The poorest person in the world is the one who doesn’t have a vision. If you don’t have a dream – a goal and a purpose in life – you’re never going to become what you could become.”

Are we just existing from day to day, without direction, without dreams? Do we feel a restlessness within? Have our questions to life been answered? Do we dare to dream and dream big?

Picture of the month

2007-03-16T03:12:00.000+08:00

besides sunrises, sunsets, calm seas, I love flowers, and dew. This was taken at 7am. Little jewels that cannot be recreated. As an avid photographer (thank God for the fellow who invented digital cameras), I havent yet developed a desire to 'recreate' dew just for a shoot. Real stuff cannot bluff. Translation: Only the real thing gives me joy in awe and wonder.

Love is a decision

2007-03-16T02:10:00.000+08:00

What do we live for?

The New and the Beautiful
Long long time ago, I used to be a shopaholic. If you relate to that term, see if you relate to this,
I used to own:
40 watches (some of which were given to me because friends knew i liked watches),
50 bags (different shapes and sizes to match clothes)
earrings so many I couldnt count.
And when I went on my frequent shopping trips to Thailand (years ago), I used to stock up on everything beautiful. There's always something more beautiful than the last thing I bought.

Retailers always manage to come up with something different, new, unique to attract sales.

Ours is a society of disposables. When something new and beautiful comes along, the older, less beautiful gets put aside. Sometimes it's just out of plain boredom.

People: Disposables?
People are another thing altogether. They are always unique, constantly changing, each beautiful in their own way. Some more obvious than others. Some still discovering their own beauty. Still some needing others to tell them how beautiful they are. And many still trying to accept the truth of their beauty. People dont come with manuals, expiry dates or guarantee cards. People are not disposables. If you are like me, at some point in our lives, wished we could 'exchange' some people in our lives with what others have. Parents, teachers, pals, boyfriends, classmates, colleagues.

We think that if we only had this/that particular teacher, we would've performed better. If we only had a husband/wife, our lives would be happier. If only...

"Love is a decision". We decide to love a person whether he/she deserves it. We can't simply give up on a person just because they have failed us in our expectations of them. We can't 'replace' them with someone else just for the heck of it. But i can see the effects of being brought up in an 'instant' society. "If this doesn't work out in so-many months, we'll call it quits."

I thank God for all the people in my life who believed in me, gave me a challenge, helped stretch me beyond what i think i can do. People who decided, and still continuously decides to love me despite of everything. People who stuck by me through all the ups and downs, doubts and uncertainties. People who believed in me even when i didnt believe in myself. Thank you all, for deciding to love. Not judging me when i had 40 watches, not condemning me when i gave up my cool career. And most of all, thank you for not walking out on me when I needed to do this missionary work, even when you didnt understand, you persevered, thank you.

Lenten reflection

2007-03-03T01:26:00.000+08:00

Every Lent, I love to use Megan McKenna's 'Lent, the daily readings'. She quote Henri Nouwen, in 'Love in a fearful land'...

"Praying is letting one's own heart become the place where the tears of God and the tears of God's children can merge and become tears of hope"

'Chapel'

2007-02-05T17:03:00.000+08:00

This is the newly 'built' chapel. A tent. Every Sunday, young and old alike come for Sunday mass, sometimes swelling to 400 people, standing room only.

What you see is real, the chapel is supported by a wooden structure. It has no walls, no electricity, no water, no pews. Just some benches and a table for an altar. Here are some of us missionaries with the choir of the chapel. Their simple and sincere service is amazing!

Dumpsite youths

2007-02-05T16:56:00.000+08:00

There are large segments of youth near a rubbish dumpsite (landfill) area where they live. They are youths who are unreached. After making some preliminary checks we found many of them loitering in the streets, gambling, playing basketball or other games for money, not having any purpose in life. No education, no job opportunities. An 18-year-old we spoke to says her dream is to work in Singapore as a domestic helper.

Many of them are Catholics, but the lack of education meant they may not know how to pray the 'Our Father' even in their own language. Our aim and goal is to befriend these youths and reach out to them with music, basic catechesis, home visits etc...

Project to help those who help others

2007-01-31T22:02:00.000+08:00

Ever wondered how you can support a missionary?

http://heart-at-work.blogspot.com <-'Witness cell phone trinkets' on sale

Photo of the month - January 2007

2007-01-30T00:59:00.000+08:00

I simply love photography. Besides the excitement of catching the right moment, there is the opportunity to just marvel at God's goodness. My Spiritual Director told me just 2 months ago...

"Contemplation is a long loving look at what is real" .

It's the simple things in life that are so beautiful. How did God think of something like this to create? How does it function? Often even in the simple things, there is so much uniqueness, so intricate, so amazing.

This is a hermit crab, I called him 'Coco' because I found him under a coconut tree. But now Coco is back out in the world. I read it somewhere that sand is actually shells that were broken from the tides over many many many many years. Wow! nothing is wasted! Thank your Father God for your amazing creation.

My hand made cards

2007-01-10T20:39:00.000+08:00

A friend of mine has been bugging me to make more cards. She loves receiving them from me and believes that I can generate some funds through them. I've finally started working on them, each is a one-of-a-kind. It's been so much fun and i hope that they will be a blessing to whoever receives them. Here're a few samples. Feel free to comment on them. What you like, what you don't like. What you think people will like etc. whatever... tell me what you think! love to hear from you.

Picture of the month- Dec 2006

2006-12-28T14:17:00.000+08:00

Dew... dew only happens in the morning. Water droplets that seem to refresh everything in sight. Dew doesn't care what it is, whether it has been a good plant or not. Dew just stays. Thank you Father God, for being the dew on my soul, for loving me just the way we are. And for allowing us to start fresh again everyday, day after day. "Mercies are new every morning... great is your faithfulness."

Counting the blessings of 2006

2006-12-28T14:11:00.000+08:00

Being
As I look back at this year, the many ministries and humanitarian work we are involved in, the many opportunities to witness how God is working among the poorest of the poor here, I can describe it best with the image of a Bonsai plant.

Twisted
Bonsais, in their early stages are constantly molded. Wires twist and turn its branches, encouraging them to move into the desired direction and shape. My sisters and brothers in community, together with my leaders are the wires. Whether it is systematic teachings received, study, or close interaction with each other, each member forms an important part in gently helping me to grow into the whole person whom God is continually making me to be. In the work we do, there are ample opportunities to learn and grow, difference in working styles, perspective and perceptions of situations, diversity in culture, all help me become more aware of my reactions, preconceived ideas, idiosyncrasies, my need for more acceptance of the uniqueness of the other, acknowledging my own poverty, and allowing both my seniors and juniors to be part of this growth. Not only journeying with others, but also desiring personal transformation daily.

Roots deepen
This year also taught me that though I have great role models and leaders, and there’s so much to learn from them, I need only be me in all I do. Only I can love the way I love, I can only do the way I can, I cannot try to be another person or emulate their styles. And I should not look at the other’s richness and deem myself poor. I don’t need to strive to perfection, I don’t need to be big, great or popular. I don’t need to be better than the rest. The only thing I need to do is be as good as I can be at this moment, and not constantly evaluating how I can do something better the next time. I just need to be me. And in this new acceptance, I am then more compassionate towards others.

Grow now!
The bonsai branches take years to be moved. Lord I need patience and I need it now! Hehehe In my own impatience, I sometimes ask God why certain things have not happened yet, why I haven’t made much progress in growing in a certain area, what’s in my future. This year I realize more fully that the only way I can be fully living is when I live in the ‘now’. And that is an important part of honouring the presence of the other, acknowledging the diginity of the people we serve.

Size matters
Bonsais are pruned and molded to look like little ‘big’ trees. During my personal retreat, I realize that I have been striving all my life to be more intelligent, more witty, more popular etc, to be ‘the best that I can be’. This was my blind spot. Truth is; at any given moment, I am already enough. I am loved by Father God as I am today. I don’t have to be better to be more lovable, I don’t have to inflate myself, I am enough. Let me be small. Let my smallness be joyful, let my joy be gratefulness, let all that I am be simple. And in my smallness stand tall and with dignity. This important truth is also something I’m trying to inculcate into the youths I work with. We are priceless, precious and wonderful.

Friends! THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUOUS SUPPORT
If not for your love & support, whether through finances, prayer, equipment, or emotional support & love, I would not be able to do what I do now. In being empowered by God, I can now empower the people I work with even more. You have been as much a part of the mission as I am on the field. Know that you are in my prayers. God Bless you. Till we meet again.

Retreat in Tagaytay, Philippines

2006-10-20T12:29:00.000+08:00

< To those who are given more, more is expected >

2006-09-09T23:14:00.000+08:00

I've been studying about . It's quite amazing that people like me could have gone on as long as we have without setting proper boundaries. Keeping the bad out and the good in. How to say 'Yes' with full freedom and not simply because I dont want to hurt the other person.

Just the other day, a friend requested if i could cut his hair. I dont know if he knew i had learnt it a long time ago. But I remember being very hesitant. Not because I'm not a professional hairdresser, not even because i had only cut 2 person's hair in my whole life... But i was afraid. If I say 'Yes' to this one, what if others wanted the same 'free' service. What would happen to my weekends? Do i really want to be so 'available'?

I had just started learning to say 'No' instead of ALWAYS saying 'Yes', and now i'm challenged to say my 'Yes's more fully, more freely, without counting the cost, without unneccessary fears.

As I decided to help my friend out, as i laid my fingers to the scissors, I felt more and more calm and joyful in my heart. The scissors went to work, none of what i learnt would apply here, I only learnt to cut the page boy, blunt, one length hair for ladies. But it became clear to me that what was happening right there was something of a revelation to me. I could cut men's hair. And it became even clearer later that this was to be my friend's best hair cut ever. I felt happy that the haircut session was rather enjoyable, no stress, and best of all, i never knew i could do it.

Upon reflection, I wonder how much more i'm holding back. What else was I not putting in. What other 'talents' am i still hiding from others for fear that I might be asked to do more. Probably some are on 'auto-pilot' mode to guard personal space and time.

< To those who are given more, more is expected >.

Prayer: Yes Lord, teach me to be discerning and not count the cost, to go the extra mile, to give when neccessary, to smile at all times. Help me to be a cheerful giver. Amen

Emmaus Experience. Oct 1-15, 2006

2006-09-02T11:09:00.000+08:00

We're all excited! A new course is coming up, the Emmaus Experience is essentially experiencing the love of God is a deeper way.

It is a 2 week live in experience, mingling with participants and missionaries from at least 9 different countries. There are 2 phases to this; formation and mission outreach.

The outreach part is just as, if not more exciting than the formation. As details are being worked out, we are sure blessing upon blessing will come onto the people.

If you feel you need a renewal in your zeal and want to meet Jesus in a new way, this course is for you. Do not ask 'Am i called' rather ASSUME we all are CALLEd and have a purpose in this life. All of us are called to spread the love and joy around!

Feel free to check out our official website. www.icpe.org
The deadline was August 31, 2006. But if you are quick, you can still apply!!

Korea - Volunteer work

2006-07-29T19:02:00.000+08:00

For 2 days we were involved with the mercy work for the poor, the aged, forgotten by their families, the abandoned babies, orphans, multiple handicapped people. I'm excited to see Jesus in them! I worked in the Ignok Hospital in the hospice ward. The patients are called family members. Most of them in the hospice ward are in vegetative states. They can't move in their beds, needing the volunteers/nurses to turn them once every 2 hours, they are fed by tube 5 times a day, they wear adult diapers. While I wondered if i was making any difference, simply massaging them, talking/singing to them, folding some of the 7000 diapers they use each day, hand mopping the floor, reading the bible, praying with them, even though i know there'd not be any kind of interaction or response.

While i could look out the window when i need a change of view, their only view from their bed is the ceiling and the walls. In their vegetative state, do they feel imprisoned in a human shell? Are they brain dead? Are they thinking anything at all? As i prayed with them, I felt a deep sense of peace and serenity, God is with them even at this stage. Even though their family members have abandoned them, some on the streets, they are now in a loving environment, surrounded by loving volunteers who come over to pat them, joke with them, people who find it a privilege working there! These people have my deepest respect.

Korea - University students

2006-07-29T17:29:00.000+08:00

Now a bit more about korea. The food and hospitality is fantastic. The first outreach to the university students was very blessed time for all of us. These students are all finishing their final year in Social welfare, most of their parents think they are crazy to pursue this kind of work, but they are perservering. God really showed what He wanted to do in their lives. Many had breakthroughs during this short 2 day retreat.

Korea - House of Joy!

2006-07-25T21:35:00.000+08:00

Another day, we were invited, impromptu, to a kind of celebration they were holding. All we know is that we will be performing one dance. But to my pleasant surprise, the huge hall was filled with very young children and older adults, many with various handicaps. The hall was exploding with joy! This house is called the , they were dancing away to the live band playing there, very free, not at all shy with us. The minute they saw us, they came running to us and hugged us, and started talking animately ...in Korean! Despite finding out later that we dont understand them, they kept asking us questions and some simply just sat on our laps. Though our participation with not more than half an hour, we left the house feeling exuberant and very very joyous. They gave us more than we gave them.

This is the official website: www.hcwy.org

My short break in Bolinau

2006-06-15T11:43:00.000+08:00