The Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) is holding its newly developed module on Youth Ministry for the public from 18 to 29 January 2010.
This youth ministry module will cover the situation and challenges facing the youth in Asia, the stages of discipleship, framework and principles of youth ministry, with practical workshops and rich exchange of experiences of mission.
We also would like to take this opportunity to have a dialogue (23 January) on youth situation and youth ministry in Asian countries. We believe that this can help bring about new perspectives and equip participants with knowledge, skills, attitudes and relevant tools for the mission with young people.
Please download these forms for your reference & registration.
IFFAsia Brochure - Youth Ministry
IFFAsia Registration Form - Youth Ministry
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Season's Greetings - Making a Difference
Dear Friends,
During this season, as we are confronted with natural calamities and violence here in Asia, Christmas offers us an opportunity to bring peace in our lives and communities.
By investing in the lives of young people, from diverse backgrounds, we can make a difference in their communities. Think of a young adult you can invite to this year of formation and pass this on.
Fill up and send in all applications by 31 March 2010.
Blessed Christmas & Hope for 2010.
Director, Staff & Students @ IFFAsia
IFFAsia Invite 2009
Download IFFAsia's Information and Application Kits here.
During this season, as we are confronted with natural calamities and violence here in Asia, Christmas offers us an opportunity to bring peace in our lives and communities.
By investing in the lives of young people, from diverse backgrounds, we can make a difference in their communities. Think of a young adult you can invite to this year of formation and pass this on.
Fill up and send in all applications by 31 March 2010.
Blessed Christmas & Hope for 2010.
Director, Staff & Students @ IFFAsia
IFFAsia Invite 2009
Download IFFAsia's Information and Application Kits here.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
An Advent Letter
From the President of Fondacio
At the beginning of this time of Advent, Ignacio Rosselot, President of Fondacio, addresses a letter to the community responsibles and members in the countries where she is present. Among others, it is a call to commit ourselves to the issues of society and to root our lives in Christ, notably through a life of prayer.
Dear friends,
First of all, I want to thank God for all the graces received by Fondacio over the many years, for the gift of faith and for the desire, which remains in the heart of the community, to share with the world the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We do not proclaim a myth or a human fabrication: God manifested Himself to man in a tangible way, one day in history. The time of Advent in which we enter opens us once again to this mystery of incarnation. God Himself comes to meet man in his human level. He has accomplished His promise made in generation to the people of Israel. What disappointment for all those who believed in the coming of a liberator, ready to chase away the Roman powers and to impose on all a new order: a messiah by the standards of the "world". On the other hand, what joy for the poor and the humble of heart who recognized in and through the person of Jesus Christ, a God-Love, who is close to us and merciful: a messiah at the service of "Man".
This God among men comes to propose a path of fulfillment, where love comes first, wellspring of meaning for a fruitful life.
In the Church, through the spirituality of Fondacio, He invites us to take this path, to enter His school, and to collaborate in His mission. Thus, the members of Fondacio are called to commit themselves to the issues of society, to share in the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this time (Vatican II: Gaudium et Spes, 1) while testifying to the hope for a more humane world and while participating in her building. We know how much this path runs counter to the many customs of this world. “You are in the world, but you are not of the world” (John 17: 14-18); this is the paradox to which Jesus invites us: to live in friendship with the world and even to serve it, but, without conforming to its ways.
In order to take this path, we possess a treasure, which is the community, living cell of the Church, privileged place to experience the tenderness of God for all persons, place of speaking and of listening, of welcoming and of sending. Place of blessing and of learning to speak about the good of the other, to change our points of view, to move away from our self-centeredness. Then, with the others, we enter into a "we", instead of a "me / I" first. This is the adventure of communion, among us and in a wider opening to the world. A grace of unity was welcomed at the Congress of Chile. Fondacio is a community one and diverse. We discover ourselves rich in multiple cultures experienced through our presence in more than 25 countries. The ecumenical experience lived in the community, and since recently, the efforts in the dialogue with cultures and religions, are done for reconciliation and for peace. There is relevance in this reality facing the issues in the construction of the human family, a major challenge in our time. We want to participate modestly, but actively, in the realization of unity where Christ invites his Church: "That they be one so that the world believes" (John 17).
Fondacio has developed much these past years. It is necessary for us, today, to be further rooted in Him, the Christ, principle and end of who we are and of our actions. Prayer life must be at the heart of the community. This is already very much the case. She is the rock on which it builds, reinforces and consolidates our personal and community commitments. Let us take the time for individual and collective prayer to breathe in Him. Let bloom this very spontaneous prayer inherited from the renewal which we came from. Let us center always on the Word, the Scriptures, the heritage of the Fathers of the Church. The prayer of Christ and of the Church precedes us and, by the Spirit, we are in relation with the One who is the Source. "The one who remains in me and I in him, that one bears much fruit" (John 15:4). This verse has inspired our last international congress, entitled: "Through Him, with Him and in Him, disciples for the world". This word drives the community. It inspires and nourishes our programs of action. Be faithful, together, in prayer, to the alliance that Christ proposes to us.
With you, I pray for the growth of love among us and for the communion within our community and in the Church. Let us enter together a little more into this mystery of the coming of God on earth in the womb of Mary. Let us prepare ourselves to live this time of Advent in the shared joy of not being called "servants" anymore, but being called "friends" by God.
With brotherly love,
Ignacio ROSSELOT
Lettre de l'Avent
At the beginning of this time of Advent, Ignacio Rosselot, President of Fondacio, addresses a letter to the community responsibles and members in the countries where she is present. Among others, it is a call to commit ourselves to the issues of society and to root our lives in Christ, notably through a life of prayer.
Dear friends,
First of all, I want to thank God for all the graces received by Fondacio over the many years, for the gift of faith and for the desire, which remains in the heart of the community, to share with the world the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We do not proclaim a myth or a human fabrication: God manifested Himself to man in a tangible way, one day in history. The time of Advent in which we enter opens us once again to this mystery of incarnation. God Himself comes to meet man in his human level. He has accomplished His promise made in generation to the people of Israel. What disappointment for all those who believed in the coming of a liberator, ready to chase away the Roman powers and to impose on all a new order: a messiah by the standards of the "world". On the other hand, what joy for the poor and the humble of heart who recognized in and through the person of Jesus Christ, a God-Love, who is close to us and merciful: a messiah at the service of "Man".
This God among men comes to propose a path of fulfillment, where love comes first, wellspring of meaning for a fruitful life.
In the Church, through the spirituality of Fondacio, He invites us to take this path, to enter His school, and to collaborate in His mission. Thus, the members of Fondacio are called to commit themselves to the issues of society, to share in the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this time (Vatican II: Gaudium et Spes, 1) while testifying to the hope for a more humane world and while participating in her building. We know how much this path runs counter to the many customs of this world. “You are in the world, but you are not of the world” (John 17: 14-18); this is the paradox to which Jesus invites us: to live in friendship with the world and even to serve it, but, without conforming to its ways.
In order to take this path, we possess a treasure, which is the community, living cell of the Church, privileged place to experience the tenderness of God for all persons, place of speaking and of listening, of welcoming and of sending. Place of blessing and of learning to speak about the good of the other, to change our points of view, to move away from our self-centeredness. Then, with the others, we enter into a "we", instead of a "me / I" first. This is the adventure of communion, among us and in a wider opening to the world. A grace of unity was welcomed at the Congress of Chile. Fondacio is a community one and diverse. We discover ourselves rich in multiple cultures experienced through our presence in more than 25 countries. The ecumenical experience lived in the community, and since recently, the efforts in the dialogue with cultures and religions, are done for reconciliation and for peace. There is relevance in this reality facing the issues in the construction of the human family, a major challenge in our time. We want to participate modestly, but actively, in the realization of unity where Christ invites his Church: "That they be one so that the world believes" (John 17).
Fondacio has developed much these past years. It is necessary for us, today, to be further rooted in Him, the Christ, principle and end of who we are and of our actions. Prayer life must be at the heart of the community. This is already very much the case. She is the rock on which it builds, reinforces and consolidates our personal and community commitments. Let us take the time for individual and collective prayer to breathe in Him. Let bloom this very spontaneous prayer inherited from the renewal which we came from. Let us center always on the Word, the Scriptures, the heritage of the Fathers of the Church. The prayer of Christ and of the Church precedes us and, by the Spirit, we are in relation with the One who is the Source. "The one who remains in me and I in him, that one bears much fruit" (John 15:4). This verse has inspired our last international congress, entitled: "Through Him, with Him and in Him, disciples for the world". This word drives the community. It inspires and nourishes our programs of action. Be faithful, together, in prayer, to the alliance that Christ proposes to us.
With you, I pray for the growth of love among us and for the communion within our community and in the Church. Let us enter together a little more into this mystery of the coming of God on earth in the womb of Mary. Let us prepare ourselves to live this time of Advent in the shared joy of not being called "servants" anymore, but being called "friends" by God.
With brotherly love,
Ignacio ROSSELOT
Lettre de l'Avent
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Come Together, Share the Word, Live the Eucharist
A Reflection on the Asian Youth Day 2009
During the Days in the Diocese in Kalookan, a wonderful and beautiful opening mass was presided by Bishop Deogracias Yniguez. In his homily, he mentioned a few important points: chosen, learn, see beyond, personal growth, enthusiasm, youth needing company / a group coming together. These words touched my heart and brought me closer to the heart of God. And they were important also because I realized that my heart was awakening from this point onwards to yield to God’s words. It seems I have been away from God; I only just seek out my interest rather than God’s will, even though I am in the mission field.
On the first day of AYD, I saw the local citizens standing at the roadside and dancing to welcome us. With fireworks in the sky, all the AYD delegates, and the many bishops and priests, gathered at the Imus Cathedral for the opening ceremony and the celebration of the mass. It was such a significant moment for me, even though I had to sit on the floor (and disliked the fact that there were only two toilets in the area!). Bishop Tagle, who presided the mass, said that he was once touched when Pope John Paul II told him that Jesus, Mary, Moses… all came from Asia. It is a time now for Asia to lead the spiritual movement in the world. I liked the presentation of a little blind girl; she had a wonderful voice, and she said that all are in a JOURNEY OF THE HEART. I fully agreed with what she said, about being rather than doing.
I liked the morning prayer – the sharing of rice with one another. Bishop Dominic shared that THE EUCHARIST IS THE GIFT THAT JESUS REVEALED TO US, THE EUCHARIST FORMS THE CHURCH; JESUS IS THE FOOD OF THE JOURNEY. I liked these sentences the most – GOD IS RICE; HEAVEN IS RICE. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EUCHARIST AND THE COSMOS IS LIKE BREAD & WINE; AND THE EUCHARIST HELPS US TO SEE THE UNITY OF GOD’S PLAN. While sharing with Fr. Frans from Indonesia and Ruth from the Philippines, I realized that my selfishness is not easy to let go. GOD IS RICE, and rice is for everybody. But I just look for those who are Catholic or who I feel comfortable with. I hope that this realization can motivate me to do something new towards my life’s direction.
Another significant moment for me was when I saw Bishop Tagle shed tears in front of us. He thanked those volunteers who helped in the event. I witnessed a humble care and love from him.
Although the events made me tired because of lack of sleep, I thank God who gave me the chance to witness 4,000 youth and volunteers come together to sing and dance, and hand in hand say OUR FATHER. It was such a beautiful and touching moment for me; it gave me much hope for the future. I am happy also to have the chance once again to meet my fellow graduates of IFFAsia. It was like encountering the spirit of TOGETHERNESS. When I saw Vian, Nga, Ngui, Toeur, Sophal, Mary, Nestor, Alice, Chieko, Wilfred, Zack, Lucy and some students from the 4th batch, I felt the spirit jumping in my heart. I believe that there is something more for us in this encounter, especially for myself. I long once again for all of us to COME TOGETHER, SHARE THE WORD, LIVE THE EUCHARIST IN COMMUNITY.
Sometimes I ask God how much of the impact or fruits of the event will the youth bring back to their countries. Will these give influence to the youth? But, I believe that the first part of the theme - COME TOGETHER - means a lot from the beginning. For the rest of the theme, God will move and touch the hearts which are thirsty for HIM.
I thank God for allowing me to witness and take part in this wonderful event. I received marvelous graces from God through the youth. I also thank Him that I witnessed HIS LOVE for the youth of Asia.
Mag Chin
Fondacio Malaysia
For more information, please visit the official website of the latest Asian Youth Day 2009.
During the Days in the Diocese in Kalookan, a wonderful and beautiful opening mass was presided by Bishop Deogracias Yniguez. In his homily, he mentioned a few important points: chosen, learn, see beyond, personal growth, enthusiasm, youth needing company / a group coming together. These words touched my heart and brought me closer to the heart of God. And they were important also because I realized that my heart was awakening from this point onwards to yield to God’s words. It seems I have been away from God; I only just seek out my interest rather than God’s will, even though I am in the mission field.
On the first day of AYD, I saw the local citizens standing at the roadside and dancing to welcome us. With fireworks in the sky, all the AYD delegates, and the many bishops and priests, gathered at the Imus Cathedral for the opening ceremony and the celebration of the mass. It was such a significant moment for me, even though I had to sit on the floor (and disliked the fact that there were only two toilets in the area!). Bishop Tagle, who presided the mass, said that he was once touched when Pope John Paul II told him that Jesus, Mary, Moses… all came from Asia. It is a time now for Asia to lead the spiritual movement in the world. I liked the presentation of a little blind girl; she had a wonderful voice, and she said that all are in a JOURNEY OF THE HEART. I fully agreed with what she said, about being rather than doing.
I liked the morning prayer – the sharing of rice with one another. Bishop Dominic shared that THE EUCHARIST IS THE GIFT THAT JESUS REVEALED TO US, THE EUCHARIST FORMS THE CHURCH; JESUS IS THE FOOD OF THE JOURNEY. I liked these sentences the most – GOD IS RICE; HEAVEN IS RICE. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EUCHARIST AND THE COSMOS IS LIKE BREAD & WINE; AND THE EUCHARIST HELPS US TO SEE THE UNITY OF GOD’S PLAN. While sharing with Fr. Frans from Indonesia and Ruth from the Philippines, I realized that my selfishness is not easy to let go. GOD IS RICE, and rice is for everybody. But I just look for those who are Catholic or who I feel comfortable with. I hope that this realization can motivate me to do something new towards my life’s direction.
Another significant moment for me was when I saw Bishop Tagle shed tears in front of us. He thanked those volunteers who helped in the event. I witnessed a humble care and love from him.
Although the events made me tired because of lack of sleep, I thank God who gave me the chance to witness 4,000 youth and volunteers come together to sing and dance, and hand in hand say OUR FATHER. It was such a beautiful and touching moment for me; it gave me much hope for the future. I am happy also to have the chance once again to meet my fellow graduates of IFFAsia. It was like encountering the spirit of TOGETHERNESS. When I saw Vian, Nga, Ngui, Toeur, Sophal, Mary, Nestor, Alice, Chieko, Wilfred, Zack, Lucy and some students from the 4th batch, I felt the spirit jumping in my heart. I believe that there is something more for us in this encounter, especially for myself. I long once again for all of us to COME TOGETHER, SHARE THE WORD, LIVE THE EUCHARIST IN COMMUNITY.
Sometimes I ask God how much of the impact or fruits of the event will the youth bring back to their countries. Will these give influence to the youth? But, I believe that the first part of the theme - COME TOGETHER - means a lot from the beginning. For the rest of the theme, God will move and touch the hearts which are thirsty for HIM.
I thank God for allowing me to witness and take part in this wonderful event. I received marvelous graces from God through the youth. I also thank Him that I witnessed HIS LOVE for the youth of Asia.
Mag Chin
Fondacio Malaysia
For more information, please visit the official website of the latest Asian Youth Day 2009.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Word of the Month (December 2009)
Isaiah 9: 2-6
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness -
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness -
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Couples Renew Their Marriage Vows
In the get-away weekend for the couples at Fraser Hill, 14th & 15th November 2009, four couples from Fondacio Malaysia renewed their covenantal love by re-declaring their marriage vows to one another.
At the start of this weekend the couples shared in awe of their first meeting and how they got started in their relationship. Each of the couples sure had their story to tell!
Father Moses Yap, OFM, from Kuching, Sarawak, led the couples into a special moment of reconciliation including four-year-old Joshua Foo. It was a touching moment to see Joshua accepting apologies from his parents as well as saying sorry to Daddy and Mommy for his unintentional misbehaviors.
This weekend gathering was possible through the openness and availability of two couples to animate and facilitate it: Huey Jen, recently baptized, with her spouse, James, and Raymond Sii with his spouse, Anna. They were a gift for the couples’ gathering, for as they discovered their goodness, they awakened the best in the others, too.
Meanwhile Patricia, Florence and Annie, became the support to the organizing committee, giving not only advice, but along the way, also doubling as baby-sitter and moderator.
To conclude, the gathering gave an opportunity for the couples to celebrate each other as they did in the alpha of their relationships. Additionally, it was successful in setting their hearts on fire to be disciples of Christ for other couples, too.
Florence Alexius
Fondacio Malaysia
At the start of this weekend the couples shared in awe of their first meeting and how they got started in their relationship. Each of the couples sure had their story to tell!
Father Moses Yap, OFM, from Kuching, Sarawak, led the couples into a special moment of reconciliation including four-year-old Joshua Foo. It was a touching moment to see Joshua accepting apologies from his parents as well as saying sorry to Daddy and Mommy for his unintentional misbehaviors.
This weekend gathering was possible through the openness and availability of two couples to animate and facilitate it: Huey Jen, recently baptized, with her spouse, James, and Raymond Sii with his spouse, Anna. They were a gift for the couples’ gathering, for as they discovered their goodness, they awakened the best in the others, too.
Meanwhile Patricia, Florence and Annie, became the support to the organizing committee, giving not only advice, but along the way, also doubling as baby-sitter and moderator.
To conclude, the gathering gave an opportunity for the couples to celebrate each other as they did in the alpha of their relationships. Additionally, it was successful in setting their hearts on fire to be disciples of Christ for other couples, too.
Florence Alexius
Fondacio Malaysia
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Be an Effective Pastoral Leader! Join IFFAsia for the Schoolyear 2010-2011!
The Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) is now open for application from potential applicants for the schoolyear 2010-2011.
The Institute hopes, through the formation, to build up young leaders and pastoral workers who can take initiatives, give leadership, and bring development and renewal in Asian Church and Society.
Download these forms for your reference.
IFFAsia Information Kit Nov2009
IFFAsia Application Kit Nov2009
The Institute hopes, through the formation, to build up young leaders and pastoral workers who can take initiatives, give leadership, and bring development and renewal in Asian Church and Society.
Download these forms for your reference.
IFFAsia Information Kit Nov2009
IFFAsia Application Kit Nov2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
"One God, One Life, One Love... A Reminder... A Calling... A Challenge"
A Theater Presentation
Last Oct. 3, 2009, the students of the Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFA) staged their first theater presentation entitled “One God, One Life, One Love... A Reminder... A Calling... A Challenge” at Sanctuario de San Vicente de Paul in Tandang Sora, Quezon City. This has been the product of the students’ persistent training in the creativity workshop conducted by Mr. Bryan Villas Maliglig.
Since the students started their training at the start of the school year, they have become more confident and more in touch with their feelings.
The theater presentation is one of the institute’s fund-raising projects to raise needed funds to cover the students’ various expenses during their 10-month formation program at the institute. Part of the proceeds was also donated to help the victims of typhoon Ondoy, which caused massive flooding in a large part of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Please click on the following links to view some of the segments during the presentation:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUhEtK_P7l0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnrWAoJXyWY
Last Oct. 3, 2009, the students of the Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFA) staged their first theater presentation entitled “One God, One Life, One Love... A Reminder... A Calling... A Challenge” at Sanctuario de San Vicente de Paul in Tandang Sora, Quezon City. This has been the product of the students’ persistent training in the creativity workshop conducted by Mr. Bryan Villas Maliglig.
Since the students started their training at the start of the school year, they have become more confident and more in touch with their feelings.
The theater presentation is one of the institute’s fund-raising projects to raise needed funds to cover the students’ various expenses during their 10-month formation program at the institute. Part of the proceeds was also donated to help the victims of typhoon Ondoy, which caused massive flooding in a large part of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Please click on the following links to view some of the segments during the presentation:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Intercultural Sensitivity
If I want to live well with others, I must know and learn to appreciate, accept and understand other people’s cultures and way of life. This means that I myself must understand my own culture. I must know what are life-giving and death-dealing elements/aspects of my own culture. Only then can I learn from others and help others learn from me. Therefore, the art of understanding others becomes very important in any situation because everyone wants to be understood and it is extremely important for us to know others’ culture. It is necessary and a must!We must see the whole world and open our heart to everyone and everywhere. Unfortunately, every country also can not avoid bad practices like corruption. We can correct ourselves from this shortcoming. These negative elements can improve our own culture. You can help by avoiding falling in the same situation. If you feel something is not right about what is being done or asked of you, you can stand by your principles by doing what is right. Even though different cultures or countries have different ways of life, they all have common ground – Love. Love is for the whole world. Nobody can understand this world without it. Love can deal with anything. To love and to be loved is what matters. That’s what we stand for as Christians, and humanity, for the world!
Lina Han, China
IFFAsia
You can read Lina's full reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
My Decision to Enter IFFA
My one-month stay at IFFA and in the Philippines has been a great time of confronting myself in the deepest core of my being. I have always asked God why I have to stay here. Was my decision to come here right or wrong? In front of all these questions, God spoke to me, and I too spoke to my inner being; I need to decide to be here and not anywhere else. If I am here, then there must be a reason. Since then, I have tried my best to integrate myself in the processes of IFFA and that of my friends.Now I feel very much satisfied with my decision. I feel happy living in IFFA. I have many new friends, who come from different cultural backgrounds in Asia. Despite our differences, I can dare say that we have a lot in common, the Asian-ness of our culture and way of life. Day by day, we continue to appreciate and understand each other more than before in the sessions and the activities we do at IFFA and at SVST. In each session, I learn many meaningful things. These help me to adjust and transform myself in many different ways, and always for the better.
Mary Thanh Thao, Vietnam
IFFAsia
You can read Mary's whole testimony, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
Encountering My Father
My prayer life begins to consume every part of my life with God. I always ask Him for his guidance before I speak or in any decision that I want to make. I give Him full control of my life. He is ever present in my mind and heart. For me, the reality of prayer is really the fruit of faith. As I look back, there are moments when I pray and ask God for a lot of things, but when I receive them I am dissatisfied. Sometimes, I receive a sweet gift, but sometimes it turns out to be bitter. I get disappointed, and I tend to think that maybe God doesn’t know what I want. As time passes by, I come to realise that God, indeed, knows my needs. He may not give me there and then when I ask, but He surely does know what is best and when is the best time for it.Prayer is really my energy source in all that I do. Sometimes, my human weakness gets hold of the best of me, and I feel lazy and tired, and I seem not able to concentrate during prayer. Yet my only consolation is my trust that God understands. I feel that in order to have a good relationship with God I need to learn to let go of my worries and just simply trust. I have a wonderful experience each time I meet God in prayer. I speak to Him first and He listens. Next, He speaks and I listen as his daughter. And the last step is where we both wrap ourselves in the silence of each other. I look forward to encountering my Father everyday in all that I do.
Theresa Hoang Anh, Vietnam
IFFAsia
You can also read Theresa's testimony, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
Can You Do This for Me?
Whatever circumstance I find myself in (with all the concerns, issues, problems and struggles of my life), I find God asking me: “Can you do this for me?”This is what I feel continuously and I keep asking myself, “Can I trust in Him and in His divine promise for me? Am I willing to give my life to Him and for Him? If yes, then why do I find myself resisting? Why do I feel that I cannot really give in to Him?”
It’s through asking myself these questions, meditatively pondering upon what it means for me to respond to His call, that I realize how He is drawing me to grow and develop a close relationship with Him. It makes me understand why He seems to disturb me and make me experience all kinds of conflicting situations and struggles. It is for this reason that I dare to say, “Lord, disturb me even more”, because then, I get to know what it is I have to offer and sacrifice my life for!
What this means for me is that my prayer life is, indeed, a way of communicating with God. And each and every time I start to pray and ask God’s intervention in the day-to-day events and happenings of my life, I ask for His constant faithfulness so that I can remain in Him as He remains in me all the time. I do not have to question anymore what happens to/in my life, and why it is happening. God has His own reason which is beyond my human comprehension; He is the one who gives meaning to everything. This becomes my guiding principle about God’s assuring presence and intervention in my life and the whole of life. He Himself has spoken to us through His Son Jesus Christ: “I have come that you may have life, and have it abundantly” (Jn. 10:10).
If I have this assuring presence of God in Jesus Christ, what then is preventing me to go deep in prayer and build a close relationship with Him? I have come to realize that, many times, my attitude, limitations, weaknesses, and of course, my laziness lead me into darkness, thus I become unfaithful in the little steps I know I am supposed to take and do for the good of all.
Lattana (Noi), Laos
IFFAsia
You can also read Lattana's reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
An Endless Overflow of God's Love and Blessings
Three months is just enough time to initially settle down and enter into a way of life which I call spiritual journey. This is an experience I carry in my heart as I look at another phase of formation this year at IFFA.
When I reflect on each of the various sessions, I realize that each has been designed in such a way that it makes me sigh and say to myself: how meaningful and useful this is for me and for my life! It is very important to know the beauty that it brings to my life and to the life of the others.
I can say that this journey of discovery through sessions and daily encounters with people and realities is valuable for me and for my mission. I am not only acquiring knowledge and skills, but it also helps me to change my attitude towards life and to have a greater appreciation of the wider needs of society. The discovery that I am blessed and that I am God’s gift to others is one of the most significant realizations for me. I am indeed a blessing from God. This has never dawned on me before, and I thank God for IFFA and the yes to the process.
Sometimes when I face difficulties I can not stand up by myself. I even forget to pray to Him, the author of my life. Yet, His blessing is never-ending; it continuously overflows, flowing like a river. I know, and I can feel that this is not of human making, but a divine blessing and sanctification. It is the same thing with his love. It is when I believe that God’s love is endless in my life and I can not even afford to pay with the efforts that I am making. And I start growing in his likeness, appreciating his embrace for me and the rest of humanity. Such is the wonder of God, our Father!
Pale Phyu, Myanmar
IFFAsia
You can also read Pale's reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
When I reflect on each of the various sessions, I realize that each has been designed in such a way that it makes me sigh and say to myself: how meaningful and useful this is for me and for my life! It is very important to know the beauty that it brings to my life and to the life of the others.
I can say that this journey of discovery through sessions and daily encounters with people and realities is valuable for me and for my mission. I am not only acquiring knowledge and skills, but it also helps me to change my attitude towards life and to have a greater appreciation of the wider needs of society. The discovery that I am blessed and that I am God’s gift to others is one of the most significant realizations for me. I am indeed a blessing from God. This has never dawned on me before, and I thank God for IFFA and the yes to the process.
Sometimes when I face difficulties I can not stand up by myself. I even forget to pray to Him, the author of my life. Yet, His blessing is never-ending; it continuously overflows, flowing like a river. I know, and I can feel that this is not of human making, but a divine blessing and sanctification. It is the same thing with his love. It is when I believe that God’s love is endless in my life and I can not even afford to pay with the efforts that I am making. And I start growing in his likeness, appreciating his embrace for me and the rest of humanity. Such is the wonder of God, our Father!
Pale Phyu, Myanmar
IFFAsia
You can also read Pale's reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
Am I Becoming More Mature?
As I grow older day by day, I become more mature physically and mentally. My body changes in structure, my muscles begin to form, and my mind continues to acquire and accumulate more knowledge. I begin to see with a wider perspective. However, there is one area of my being human that I somehow have forgotten to pay attention to – my emotions.To develop good relationships with others is, first, to take care of our own emotions, to be responsible for our own actions in total freedom and choice. There is no need to be afraid or shy about how we feel. But, we have to make sure that we express it in the right place and time, and with the right person involved. Second, it is good for us not to allow ourselves to be affected by the feelings of others and our own past, especially negative experiences. They say “Experience is the best teacher”; we can all learn from our own experiences and those of others. We can also remember that “Pain is the teacher from whom we can learn much”. These are hard lessons in life, and our negative experiences are meant to help us develop a more positive outlook in life. We can learn from them so that we do not commit the same mistakes in life again and again.
Rodrigo Babiera, Jr., Philippines
IFFAsia
You can read Rod's full reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
Like a Boy
After participating in some of the sessions offered here at IFFA, I have come to realize that, really, the Holy Spirit is inside me, working within me.I had my encounter with the Holy Spirit in February. This was indeed very personal. When I was praying during the retreat, someone approached me and told me: “Don’t use ‘I’; don’t use ‘you’!” After some time, I realized that it was the Holy Spirit talking to me.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me like a child. He never used difficult words. And I felt HE looked like a boy. Through that encounter and some other sessions I have attended, I now start thinking and making a decision to be HONEST to myself like a boy. I want to depend on the Father like Jesus. My poem expresses this better:
There is a small boy in a small village,
He wants to grow like a little flower
He uses blue water,
The water is lighter than air
His dress shines brighter than sunshine,
His name is SHIRO
Now he is dancing to grow like a little flower.
Johya Paul Kijima, Japan
IFFAsia
You can also read Paul's reflections, and other related articles in Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009
We're happy to share with you the initial issue of Asian Hearts Speak, the newsletter of the Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia. Please read on and learn more about our institute and its students.
IFFAsia - Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009
IFFAsia - Asian Hearts Speak - Sept 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
A Leadership Program for Myanmarese Migrants
“To be a leader is to be a servant.” This was shared by a participant who attended the Leadership Program for Myanmarese migrants last 4-5 July 2009 in Kuala Lumpur.
Fifty Myanmarese from four parishes of the KL Archdiocese attended a weekend program for leaders and core members of the Myanmar Catholic Communities in Malaysia (MCCM). This program was conducted by Fondacio Malaysia and co-facilitated by the members from MCCM, with the support of Msgr. James Gnanapiragasam of St. John’s Cathedral.
The program started with a time of recognizing one's gifts and that of each other. The participants, though shy at first, enjoyed the time to appreciate each other in the affirmation circle. Many shared that it was a personally renewing experience to be affirmed of one’s goodness in a culture where one is surrounded by harsh realities that belittle the person.It was followed by a group dynamics to understand the positive attitudes of both leaders and followers to build a stronger community. It challenged each one in the group to unite in a way to bring their makeshift boat from one end to the other end of the court without losing the life of anyone in the team. After, there were much insights shared and learned about what makes a good follower and leader.
The two-day stay-in program had also other lighter moments. The evening was dedicated for telematches that were filled with fun and laughter. The groups continued to compete and have fun to beat each other. It was also a time to take a personal look at the challenges each one faces as both leader and follower in a community, and to pray...A distinctive aspect of this program was the focus on the process, for the members of the group to experience learning for oneself. The variety of group dynamics was a learning tool in itself. After each activity, participants were eager to share their insights and reflections, and their life experiences, too. Language was not a major barrier as instantaneous translation from English to Burmese was done for every session.
In addition, there was a workshop facilitated by MCCM members on how to handle different situations faced by migrant workers in Malaysia. It was amazing to see how much they are prepared to face the challenges today as a community. The program ended with the Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Philip Muthu who reminded all that “to be good leaders, we need to pray always.”The following were some of the participants’ feedbacks:
“The program helped to awaken my responsibilities as leader and follower.”
“I can accept myself and gain confidence to come forward to serve the others.”
“It stirs the desire in me to serve others and to participate more in the community.”
“I feel touched by the Holy Spirit and closer to God.”
The participants interacted well with each other and were fully engaged in all the activities. And they are very much eager to have such programs at least twice a year.
Florence A. Alexius
Fondacio Malaysia
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Impressions
we sat and prayed along the streets of beijing
the green willows, pine trees and eucalyptus in the morning sun with the blue skies
give peace and beauty
it is a great place
the streets are clean, the place looks orderly
people walking, cycling, riding motorcycles, cars, modern buses
god has blessed us with beautiful encounters
(and stuffed chinese meals!)
the readings of today on 'the vine and branches...
that it is the father's glory that we bear much fruits as disciples...
ask anything in my name and it will be granted...'
these are provocative statements
then why do we not have enough workers?
have we asked enough?
have we believed while asking?
have we asked in his name?
what does that mean?
we will take some time this morning to pray and dialogue among ourselves
truth can only emerge through listening
these are things to pray for - truth, listening, courage...
with love and prayers
Monday, May 11, 2009
News about China visit
We arrived safely at the modern airport of Shenzen on Saturday late morning. We were welcomed by Fr. Shi who is the parish priest in the suburb. He drove us back and took us out for a great Chinese lunch.
From the air we could see the madness of development - hills slashed and flattened. On the ground, it's acres and acres of concrete buildings and roads, all looking alike. It's like a huge industrial area with factories and shops. There are not many cultural or religious structures. The Church is a rented shop building.
Fr. Shi himself is a 'mission-hearted' person. He came out here from the north and has been slowly building up the community. Most people work 7 days a week, 16 hours a day with some time off in between. We met some Catholics who run supermarkets from 7am to 11pm. So, Saturday Mass is in the evening and Sunday mass is at 2pm. They can't go to church as a family; and children and adults lack basic faith foundation. But, the people have been very warm and welcoming, sharing meals with us.
There are many migrants here - coming from the provinces - to find jobs or start businesses. With it come social problems related to jobs, homes, drugs, extortion, etc.
Father recently had two sisters coming down from the north to help him. He spent quite some time sharing with us his parish situation and needs. We were touched by his openness and his 'call' upon us to help him. On Sunday, he spoke of the need for lay workers as witnesses with the right attitude and behaviour - what we call disciples. He also asked if we can help in 2 summer camps for teenagers and children.
We continue to discern God's voice in all these.
With love and prayers
Mission Team
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The Birth of a New Community (5)
During the offertory, we offered the following symbols representing the Spirituality of Fondacio:
The aung da byay pan leaves symbolize our Spirituality of Blessing. In Myanmar, the leaves are loved by the people, who believe in the good wishes and luck they bring. These leaves are always used to welcome and bless a family member after a long journey. Today, in Fondacio, we bless and welcome the birth of a new family, a new community after the long waiting.
Rice symbolizes our Spirituality of Communion. In Asia, rice is considered as the “food of life”, served in every meal and shared by every one in the family. In Fondacio, we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the one who gives life. We are called to share this life by living in unity with our brothers and sisters.
The Fondacio candle represents our Apostolic Spirituality. This candle was received by the Country Responsible during the 2008 International Congress. It represents the passing on of the light of Christ to His workers for the mission in Myanmar. We are called to integrate our faith and action to reach out to our brothers and sisters who are in need of the light of Jesus Christ.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The aung da byay pan leaves symbolize our Spirituality of Blessing. In Myanmar, the leaves are loved by the people, who believe in the good wishes and luck they bring. These leaves are always used to welcome and bless a family member after a long journey. Today, in Fondacio, we bless and welcome the birth of a new family, a new community after the long waiting.
Rice symbolizes our Spirituality of Communion. In Asia, rice is considered as the “food of life”, served in every meal and shared by every one in the family. In Fondacio, we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the one who gives life. We are called to share this life by living in unity with our brothers and sisters.
The Fondacio candle represents our Apostolic Spirituality. This candle was received by the Country Responsible during the 2008 International Congress. It represents the passing on of the light of Christ to His workers for the mission in Myanmar. We are called to integrate our faith and action to reach out to our brothers and sisters who are in need of the light of Jesus Christ.Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The Birth of a New Community (4)
Day 3 (January 11) - The Sending-off Eucharist with Archbishop Charles Bo
The final event in the launching of the community was held at the residence of Archbishop Charles Bo, a significant place because it is also the location of our principal office in Yangon. We were joined by the friends of the community.
The highlight of the launching was the Eucharist concelebrated by Archbishop Charles, and two other priests who have journeyed with us - Fr. Robert, representing our mission for the youth, and Fr. Amal, for development work. At the beginning of the mass, Archbishop Charles read the proclamation regarding the consent to situate the headquarters of Fondacio Myanmar in Yangon.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The final event in the launching of the community was held at the residence of Archbishop Charles Bo, a significant place because it is also the location of our principal office in Yangon. We were joined by the friends of the community.The highlight of the launching was the Eucharist concelebrated by Archbishop Charles, and two other priests who have journeyed with us - Fr. Robert, representing our mission for the youth, and Fr. Amal, for development work. At the beginning of the mass, Archbishop Charles read the proclamation regarding the consent to situate the headquarters of Fondacio Myanmar in Yangon.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The Birth of a New Community (3)
Day 2 (January 10) - Launching Among the New Members of the Community
All the 16 members were present during the Community launching with these objectives: (1) To welcome and celebrate the birth of a new community, and (2) to receive the blessings of this birth.
We started the launching by blessing each member with water and the ‘aung da byay pan’ leaves. In Myanmar culture, the leaves are used to welcome each family member after a long journey. These are also used to welcome and bless one another during the New Year and other special occasions.
We reflected on the Gospel of Mark 1:9-11. "It was this time that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. And at once as he was coming out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit, like a dove, descending on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved, my favor rests on you.’"
Many of us found that this bible text was very significant to the birth of the new community. Christ was baptized before he started his public ministry. The launching was a moment of blessing from the Bishops. One reflection was God telling us that we are His beloved children. We smiled, because we are aware that the ‘beloved sons’ in the bible were always offered as sacrifices. After the baptism of the newborn community, we expect that there will be more challenges to come.
We had our launching in a quiet upper place in an eleven-storey building, a place which was witness to many events in our lives. During the sharing, I felt that we were gathered in the ‘upper room’, and suddenly remembered the birth of the first Christian community during Pentecost.
We ended our launching with a ritual of passing the Fondacio candle that Ben (Raj) received from Ignacio (Rosselot) during the International Congress. The group of businessmen celebrated with us, as we partook of our first meal together as a community, remembering also the birthday celebrants for the month.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
All the 16 members were present during the Community launching with these objectives: (1) To welcome and celebrate the birth of a new community, and (2) to receive the blessings of this birth.We started the launching by blessing each member with water and the ‘aung da byay pan’ leaves. In Myanmar culture, the leaves are used to welcome each family member after a long journey. These are also used to welcome and bless one another during the New Year and other special occasions.
We reflected on the Gospel of Mark 1:9-11. "It was this time that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. And at once as he was coming out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit, like a dove, descending on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved, my favor rests on you.’"Many of us found that this bible text was very significant to the birth of the new community. Christ was baptized before he started his public ministry. The launching was a moment of blessing from the Bishops. One reflection was God telling us that we are His beloved children. We smiled, because we are aware that the ‘beloved sons’ in the bible were always offered as sacrifices. After the baptism of the newborn community, we expect that there will be more challenges to come.
We had our launching in a quiet upper place in an eleven-storey building, a place which was witness to many events in our lives. During the sharing, I felt that we were gathered in the ‘upper room’, and suddenly remembered the birth of the first Christian community during Pentecost.
We ended our launching with a ritual of passing the Fondacio candle that Ben (Raj) received from Ignacio (Rosselot) during the International Congress. The group of businessmen celebrated with us, as we partook of our first meal together as a community, remembering also the birthday celebrants for the month.Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The Birth of a New Community (2)
Day 1 (January 9) - Fondacio Presentation to the National Bishops’ Conference
I remember Jesus being presented in the temple, as his parents' observance of the law that ‘every first-born male must be consecrated to the Lord’. When we were invited by Bishop Francis to present Fondacio to the National Bishops’ Conference, I felt it was like claiming the birth of a new community in the Church. It was like presenting the mission of Christ for the people of Myanmar. It gave me also a nervous feeling that being known publicly, the Church will have certain expectations on us.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
I remember Jesus being presented in the temple, as his parents' observance of the law that ‘every first-born male must be consecrated to the Lord’. When we were invited by Bishop Francis to present Fondacio to the National Bishops’ Conference, I felt it was like claiming the birth of a new community in the Church. It was like presenting the mission of Christ for the people of Myanmar. It gave me also a nervous feeling that being known publicly, the Church will have certain expectations on us.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The Birth of a New Community (1)
“Oh, it’s the founding day of the community! Wow! I like it! I’m excited about it!” Only after hearing these words from someone who was running away from being a member did it dawn on me… ‘founding day’. I never used these words when I was inviting people to come for our annual launching. I used to say, “We will be launched officially” without any feeling. It has been eight years since Charles (Bertille) and family came here. I arrived in 2006, and every year we would launch the community. I got used to the rhythm of ‘preparing as usual’ at the start of the year. So what is the difference this time? Suddenly, I felt God was telling me, “This is a moment of grace and blessing to acknowledge the fruits of your work.” That moment was like waking up from a dream.
The journey we had in Myanmar was quite different and challenging. We started here by giving intensive formation to these young people before we invited them to become members. They are bright young people, having their own unique strengths, but for some reasons most of them refused to become members. Last year, when we opened the membership, only one person said ‘yes’ to join the community. I had pressure from the outside to start the community, but there was peace inside me, believing that one day, in God’s time, it will happen. I made a discernment and chose to stay in Myanmar.
‘The sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep and leads them out.’ (Jn. 10:3). This is how I grew in my relationship with Christ since the moment I started my mission here. I felt that this was also the same way He is calling me to take care of his flock. One by one I journeyed with them, I learned to meet them where they are, in their personal condition, and we learned to walk together as a flock. We laughed together, we cried together, we learned how to take care of one another and to correct attitudes like brothers and sisters.
Last November 2008, during our discernment weekend, God fulfilled His promise. Fourteen local people expressed to walk with us in Fondacio as members of the community. It was touching to see how God worked in their lives and changed their hearts. And before the community launching, some twenty persons, including graduates of the Youth Leadership Formation Program (YLP) and members of the business group expressed to be friends of the community, that is, to join us in some of our activities.
The launching was a series of events in three days. The most significant was the sending-off Eucharist falling on the 11th of January 2009, the feast of the Baptism of our Lord Jesus.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
The journey we had in Myanmar was quite different and challenging. We started here by giving intensive formation to these young people before we invited them to become members. They are bright young people, having their own unique strengths, but for some reasons most of them refused to become members. Last year, when we opened the membership, only one person said ‘yes’ to join the community. I had pressure from the outside to start the community, but there was peace inside me, believing that one day, in God’s time, it will happen. I made a discernment and chose to stay in Myanmar.
‘The sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep and leads them out.’ (Jn. 10:3). This is how I grew in my relationship with Christ since the moment I started my mission here. I felt that this was also the same way He is calling me to take care of his flock. One by one I journeyed with them, I learned to meet them where they are, in their personal condition, and we learned to walk together as a flock. We laughed together, we cried together, we learned how to take care of one another and to correct attitudes like brothers and sisters.
Last November 2008, during our discernment weekend, God fulfilled His promise. Fourteen local people expressed to walk with us in Fondacio as members of the community. It was touching to see how God worked in their lives and changed their hearts. And before the community launching, some twenty persons, including graduates of the Youth Leadership Formation Program (YLP) and members of the business group expressed to be friends of the community, that is, to join us in some of our activities.
The launching was a series of events in three days. The most significant was the sending-off Eucharist falling on the 11th of January 2009, the feast of the Baptism of our Lord Jesus.
Carol Daria
Fondacio Myanmar
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