Mga Happenings sa Village
September 2008
By AA Medrano
Feast of Our Lady of Nativity
On Sunday August 31, the Filipino Pastoral Ministry hosted the 20th anniversary celebration of the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the patroness of Calbayog, Samar at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. The Calbayognons and friends celebrated the milestone with excitement as they did twenty years ago.
Msgr. Romulo Montero, Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry was the main presider of the Eucharistic celebration. The concelebrants were from Samar - Fr. Carlos Davantes, Fr. William Yabao and Fr. Mike Lagrimas was the homilist. The Mass songs in Tagalog were led by Nancy Hombrebueno and Kim Uy sang the Waray songs.
This year they welcome more kababayans coming from different places to join the happy event. They were treated to a sumptuous food, a variety of folk songs and dances by the FAHSI members and the Rockland group, ballroom and line dancing and the karaoke night.
A waray celebration will not be complete without the traditional “Kuratcha” dance performed by the different prominent members of the group. The funds raised from the “Kuratcha” will be added to the Hermana Mayor’s fund raising project to support the construction of the Immaculate Concepcion Church in Barangay Cantaguic, San Jorge Samar Philippines.
Congratulations to the Hermana Mayor Miguela “Gilly” Mancol and family, Celso and Olga who were in the forefront of the successful 20th anniversary celebration.
FPM Picnic at the Park
On August 16, the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry spent a day at the Sunken Meadow Park for some outdoor fun.
The early birds were the Dizon family Glenda, Ben, Glen, Virgil and their families. They reserved a nice spot near the beach. Thanks to Glen who put up a big tent to accommodate everybody. The others who joined the picnic were: Nanay Salome, Nancy, Cely Hombrebueno, Sally & Ed, Annie & Susan, BecBec & Anthony, Leni & Samantha, Emma & Sammy, Freddie, Gody, Maxie & Dayday, Cely & Henry, Bobby, Nelia, Justine & Kevin Villanueva.
The weather was perfect for fishing, swimming, running in the deck, games or just relax and enjoy the beach. Kevin and Glen caught the most number of big blue fish using the fishing rod. The others took turns catching “dilis” to fill up the bucket. Catching fish was a thrilling experience for everybody.
Having so much fun together, the group did not want to break up the party after sun set. The party continued at the Dizon’s home where everybody enjoyed the dinner of fresh blue fishes and “dilis”, and also watched the Olympic games on TV till midnight.
Text Box: SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 26, 2008 20TH ANNIVERSARY: THE FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY THE FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY(FPM) OF OURLADY OF POMPEI HAS BEEN SERVING THE FILIPINO MIGRANTS FOR 20 YEARS UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE SCALABRIAN FATHERS. WE WILL CELEBRATE WITH A THANKSGIVING MASS : 3:00 P.M. SUNDAY OCT. 26. RECEPTION TO FOLLOW AT THE FR. DEMO HALL OF O.L. POMPEI 25 Carmine Street, New York City 10014 COME AND CELEBRATE -EVERYBODY IS WELCOME.
27th Annual San Lorenzo Ruiz Fiesta
On September 28, the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) will celebrate its 27th annual celebration of the Feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz. It will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica Queens at 3:00 P.M. Sunday. The celebration will start with the procession around the vicinity of the church and then the Mass. A reception will follow after the Mass.
Most Rev. Emilio Z. Marquez, D.D., Bishop of Lucena, Quezon is the main celebrant of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Fiesta celebration.
You are also invited to join the daily Novena Mass in preparation for the feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz starting on September 19 through September 27 at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center, 168-41 84th Ave. Jamaica Hills, Queens NY at 7:30 P.M.
Mr. & Mrs. Alex and Edna Dy, the outgoing SLRAA Hermano and Hermana Mayor will turn-over the Hermandad to Albert and Ampy Medenilla, the incoming Hermano and Hermana Mayor 2008 - 2009.
Despedida Party for Fr. Fugolo
A farewell celebration in honor of Fr. Joseph Fugolo, c.s. was hosted by the Scalabrinian Lay Movement (SLM) on August 31 in Staten Island as he steps down as Provincial Superior of the Missionaries of Charles. Fr. Fugolo has served twice as Provincial Superior of the Missionaries of St. Charles Borromeo Province and this time has preferred to be active in a parish community. He will be assigned in Montreal Canada.
Fr. Fugolo was instrumental in welcoming the SLRAA to become a member of the Scalabrinian family through the Scalabrinian Lay Movement (SLM). His encouragement and generous advice has made the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center a reality as it is today. He also gave an invaluable support to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei dating back to 1992 when he was first elected Provincial Superior.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Fr. Fugolo for all the help and continued support that he has given to SLRAA and to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. We will treasure your warm friendship that we hope will continue where ever you are. Again, thank you so much Father Fugolo for everything.
OCTOBER 5 : Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompei
Bro. Michael LaMantia, cs, the Spiritual Director of the Three Societies of Our Lady of Pompei Church invites you to come and celebrate the Feast of the Madonna di Pompei on October 5, 2008. The Solemn Mass will start at 12:00 P.M. with the participation of the Italian, Brazilian, English and Filipino communities of Pompei. The Rosary and the Supplica both in English and Italian will be recited before the Mass. A Marian procession around the block of the church will follow after the Mass. The Benediction and the blessing with the relic of Blessed Bartolo Longo will conclude the procession. PLEASE COME AND JOIN US!
SGSK Update
Simbang Gabi sa Katedral, Inc (SGSK) steering committee is gearing up for the December 2008 Simbang Gabi sa Katedral with a series of fundraising events. Proceeds generated from these events will be used to fund the December 6 Mass/Concert at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in New York City.
The kick-off event is a SGsK Dinner Dance Social “DANCING WITH A STAR” to be held on Friday, September 5, 7pm-12pm at Our Lady of Pompei Church Father Demo Hall (25 Carmine St. corner Bleecker St (A,B, C, D, E, F, V – WEST 4th. PATH – Christopher St) $20.00/person donation. Contact: Cora Rivera (917) 751-8851.
The follow-up event is the SGsK ATLANTIC CITY FUN RUN on Saturday, September 20, 7:30am assembly at the Greyhound Bus Area, NYC Port Authority 41st Street (8th Avenue). $40.00/person. Contact Nory Teruel (212) 421-3134; (917) 860-0987
SGsk is also conducting a FAMILY BIBLE QUIZ which is open to families in the Tri-State Area. Top prize is a free pilgrimage trip for a family of four. For details please contact Lumen Castaneda (201) 659-1545; Linda Bolano (347) 2242996 and Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD, (212) 753-2261 Ext. 251
Additional information/ details about Simbang Gabi sa Katedral are available at the website: www.simbanggabinyc. com.
9th Annual Walkathon
The Building Futures Together (BFT) will hold its yearly fundraiser, the 9th Annual Walk for Poverty on September 13. The 3.1 mile (5K) Walkathon at the Flushing Meadows, Corona Park Queens, NY. The primary beneficiaries of the funds raised were the poorest communities of Samar, Philippines. They are helping the Sewing center for the mothers and the literacy program for the children of Samar. One of the programs of the BFT is to raise awareness of the illiteracy and malnourishment problems of the rural areas in Samar. If you would like to help, please contact Ms. Loudette Avelino 718 426 9471 or visit their website www.buildingfuturestogether.org.
SAVE THE DATE September 19, 2008
The Ateneo Alumni Northeast, Inc. will present the “Umawit sa Kagalakan” a concert of classical and spiritual songs from the ATENEO CHAMBER SINGERS on their 2nd US tour at Our Lady of Pompei Church in downtown Manhattan. The concert will be on Friday at 7:30 P.M. The proceeds of the concert will be for the benefit of the Ateneo Scholarship Foundation. Tickets for the concert $20 advance sale and $25 at the gate.
FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY OF POMPEI
Schedule of Activities
Filipino Masses
Every Sunday 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino*
Every Wednesday 6:30 P.M. Novena Mass Our Lady of Perpetual Help
September
05 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
7:30 PM “Dancing with A Star” – SGSK Dinner dance fund raising
07 Sun 3:00 PM 1st Day Triduum - SAN LORENZO RUIZ
(All Sundays of September 7,14,21)
19 Fri 7:30 PM “Umawit sa Kagalakan” Concert - Ateneo Chamber Singers
21 Sun 3:00 PM September Birthday celebrations
28 Sun 3:00 PM Feast day of SAN LORENZO RUIZ
Immaculate Conception Church - Jamaica , Queens
· Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass
October
03 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
05 Sun 11:30AM Feast of OUR LADY OF POMPEI
26 Sun 3:00 PM 20th Anniversary Day – FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Thanksgiving Mass & Reception)
Oct Birthday celebration
* Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass
November
01 Wed 6:30 PM All Saints Day
02 Thu All Souls Day
07 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour of 9 Fridays Novena Mass to Poon Hesus Nazareno
23 Sun 3:00 PM FPM Founder’s Day
26 Wed 6:30 PM Thanksgiving Vigil Mass & Party
27 Thu Thanksgiving Day
30 Sun 3:00 PM November Birthday Celebration
Feast of St. Andrew
Samahang San Andres of Norsagaray
* Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass
July 2008
AAMedrano
SPGNY Silver Jubilee
The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York celebrated its 25th anniversary on June 15, 2008 at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. The church was filled with devotees of Santo Nino. The celebration started with Prayer to Santo Nino led by Letty Dolan and then followed by the prayer dance to honor Santo Nino by the Santo Nino Sinulog Group of Pompei to begin the procession.
The Mass was celebrated by Msgr. Romy Montero. He also officiated the Blessing of the Santo Nino images, Santo Nino blessing of children and adults. Since it was Fathers Day, all the fathers were given flowers and special Father’s day blessings.
After the Mass, the celebration continued in the Fr. Demo Hall for the reception. A special program of modern and folk dances, games and singing of the kids were prepared by Chit Laurencio and Gody Olaso. In between performances were the line dancing and ball room dancing for the adults.
Congratulations to all the coordinators and members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Manhattan, Queens, Bronx and Brooklyn who all worked together for the successful celebration especially to the overall coordinator of the fiesta celebration - Josie Bueno and to the host group – Santo Nino Prayer Group Manhattan Chapter.
Tribute to SPGNY Members
Twenty-five years ago, a small group of Filipinos have come together to have a Mass celebrated in honor of the Santo Nino in thanksgiving for the good life they now have in the United States. From that first thanksgiving Mass, the group has become what is now the SANTO NINO PRAYER GROUPS OF NEW YORK – Manhattan, Queens, and Bronx & Brooklyn.
The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York serve as the catalyst to many of the activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) of Our Lady of Pompei. Through the Santo Nino apostolate, which consists mainly of evangelization by home visitations, the FPM is able to reach out to many of our kababayans.
The 25th annual celebration was something that we ought to treasure with pride, because it reminds us of people that are very dear to us. It was a beautiful Filipino tradition of oneness that brings families, friends and kababayans together to renew commitment and revive joyous memories. It is a source of unity which binds us together in a fine relationship that knows no bounds.
The SPGNY paid tribute to its founding members led by Gloria Parrocha and Leonora Hombrebueno-Velasquez, Minda Abunda, Thelma Dizon, Corazon Ercilla, Conchita and Ramon Laurencio, Purita Macasaet, Ellen Tibar, Arsenia Tuballa, Doree Villanueva who were then bound by their devotion and love for Santo Nino. Of the thirteen original members, Conchita and Ramon Laurencio has remained an active member of the SPGNY – Manhattan and also of the FPM. Aida Valdeviezo was the first host family of Santo Nino. We also remember the late Fr. Bobby Sison who gave spiritual guidance and direction to the SPGNY as the spiritual director for twenty years. When Fr. Bobby died, Msgr. Romy Montero took over as spiritual director.
Most praiseworthy also were the SPGNY members, past and present, who worked hard and committed themselves to continue the task of their predecessors in the propagation of the Santo Nino devotion in New York. The member’s dedication and the love for Santo Nino is the basis of the strength and success of the SPGNY in reaching the milestone. Congratulations to all!
Santo Nino Hermanito
Kevin Villanueva, the youngest son of Mr. & Mrs. Bobby and Nelia Villanueva was chosen the Santo Nino Hermanito for the 25th anniversary celebration in honor of Santo Nino. Msgr. Romy Montero officiated the installation. In his acceptance speech, he thanked his parents for bringing him to Our Lady of Pompei church every Sunday at an early age. He had the opportunity to participate and witness all the special celebrations of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. He became an altar boy right after he got his first communion. He now serve for the Filipino Mass every Sunday. He said he is always excited to come to church and serve. He is grateful to the late Fr. Bobby Sison, Bro Michael LaMantia and Fr. Romy Montero for all their support and encouragement.
The Blessed Virgin Mary of Perpetual Help
The Origin
The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, participated intimately in the economy of salvation, especially in the mystery of Redemption realized by Christ. She cooperated with her Son in the salvation of the human race. As a result, she is, for all, Mother of Perpetual Help.
According to an old tradition, one of her images under this title was brought to Rome from the Island of Crete toward the end of the fifteenth century. It was placed in the church of St. Matthew on the via Merulana during the pontificate of Alexander VI and was venerated there for about three centuries. When this church was destroyed during the Napoleonic invasions, the icon disappeared. Providentially, it was found again in 1866. At that time Pius IX confided it to the Redemptorists who exposed it for public venerations in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer dedicated to St. Alphonsus. From then on, the veneration of this miraculous image has continued to grow among the faithful, and is now widely known throughout the world.
The devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help is very popular to the Filipinos who are well known for its Marian spirituality. In the Philippines or abroad we brought with us our devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. We become more united in Christ through our devotion to Mary. Strength in unity is very important tool which everyone needs in order to be able to cope with the stresses and pressures in our way of life.
The Baclaran sa Village
Twenty years ago, the late Fr. Bobby Sison initiated the first Novena Mass in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at Our Lady of Pompei church with the launching of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry, the first Filipino apostolate in New York under the auspices of the Scalabrinian Fathers.
The Novena Mass became a regular Wednesday devotion and evolved into what is now known as “Baclaran sa Village” The name “Baclaran sa Village” was conceived after the famous shrine in Baclaran, Philippines where the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is located. The word “sa village” denotes Greenwich village where the Church of Our Lady of Pompei, home base of the FPM is located.
20th Anniversary Celebration
The 20th annual celebration of the Baclaran sa Village started with the Prayer to Our Lady of Perpetual Help led by Cory Reyes-Salhus followed by the procession inside the church while reciting the rosary in different languages. Several priests concelebrated in the Mass namely Msgr. Kevin O’Brien, Fr. John Massari, c.s, Fr. Caloy Davantes and Fr. Ronald Bonneua, C.S.s.R. Msgr. Romy Montero and Bro. Michael LaMantia were the masters of ceremonies.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the crowning of the image of the Lady of Perpetual of Help by the hermano and hermana mayores – Lina Hilderhof and Beniamino & Angelie Pena. Msgr. Romy Montero officiated the crowning ceremony.
After the Mass, everybody was invited for the reception at the Fr. Demo Hall sponsored by the hermano and hermana mayores and the Friends of the 2000 Hail Mary’s Outreach. Everybody enjoyed the food and the line dancing and ball dancing for entertainment.
Special thanks to all those who participated and made the celebration successful - the sponsors, donors, volunteers, Nancy Hombrebueno, Gloria Sambat, Rey Lauron and the Our Lady of Pompei Filipino Choir.
Our gratitude to all the hermanos & hermanas pasadas who came to celebrate with us especially to Josie Esguerra, May Salvador, Philip & Lulu Wong, Janet Rivera, Glenda Sakdalan & Aida Pacheco, Cory Reyes-Salhus and Cora del Mar. And to those who were not able to come but with us in spirit, Maraming Salamat Po.
July 4th
For seven years the Filipino Pastoral Ministry have been celebrating the July 4th Independence day at the backyard of the Our Lady of Pompei Church. The barbeque party has been a successful event every year, rain or shine. This year was different because the parking lot and the backyard garden was not available due to the on-going renovation in the adjoining building.
We are grateful to Marilyn and Nanding Castillo who readily accepted to host the FPM’s annual BBQ party. Holding the party in their place have several advantages: we don’t have to put up the tent as we usually do at Pompei because they have the permanent tent in the backyard; easy cooking and more space for games, line dancing, karaoke and socializing.
We had a wonderful time. Thank you Nanding and Marilyn for your hospitality. And thank you to everybody who came to enjoy the day.
BIBLE QUIZ
How would like to win a Free Pilgrimage for a family of four? Come and join the FAMILY BIBLE QUIZ.
This is sponsored by the Philippine Family Bible Quiz in coordination with the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK) of St. Patricks Cathedral, NY. The Bible Quiz originated in the Philippines and has been held in different cities in the world. The SGSK is the sponsoring group in New York and the tri-state area.
Who can participate? A Filipino couple canonically married in the Catholic church and two unmarried children ages 8 to 21 years old.
Please submit your family contestants to Lumen Castaneda, the coordinator of the Bible Quiz or Fr. Joseph Marabe. For more info, please contact Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD 212 753 261 ext. 251, Lumen Castaneda 201 659 1545, Linda Bolano 347 224 2996 or any member of the SGSK Steering committee.
Our Lady of Nativity
The feast of Our Lady of Nativity sponsored by the Calbayognons will be held at Our Lady of Pompei church in Manhattan on August 31. Guilya Mangcol is this year’s hermana mayor for the fiesta celebration. In preparation for the fiesta celebration a triduum Mass will be celebrated starting on August 10 at 3:00 P.M. For more information, please contact the Hermana Mayor and the officers and members of the Calbayognon and Friends, USA.
June, 2008
By AAMedrano
25th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta: On June 15, the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPGNY) will celebrate its 25th anniversary celebration of the Santo Nino Fiesta at Our Lady of Pompei Church. The Mass will start at 3:00 P.M. Come and join us celebrate the milestone reached by the SPGNY. The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Manhattan chapter will host this year’s celebration.
20th Annual Baclaran sa Village: On June 25, the Filipino Pastoral Ministry will commemorate the launching of the devotion to Mother of Perpetual Help at Our Lady of Pompei Church. The celebration will start at 6:00 P.M. with the Rosary, Novena and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The Mass will begin at 6:30 P.M. to be officiated by Fr. Joseph Fugolo, the Provincial Superior of the Scalabrinian Fathers. The Wednesday Novena Mass in preparation for the Fiesta is still being held every week through the feast day. Save the date.
Flores de Mayo & Santakrusan sa Village
It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the village where the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei church celebrated its 18th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village on May 25. The lively and colorful Santakrusan procession has become a tourist attraction in downtown Manhattan. Over the years, the celebration still remains the focal point of the beautiful celebration of our Filipino tradition and culture in the village The Eucharistic celebration was officiated by Msgr. Romulo Montero, the Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry as the main celebrant and Rev. Romeo Hontiveros, parochial vicar of Our Lady of Victory Church in Wall St. The celebration started with the Prayer to Santo Nino led by Jessica Manno followed by transfer of the Images to the different sponsors of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York and the blessing of the birthday celebrants for the month of May. The much anticipated crowning ceremony, the offering of flowers and the Santakrusan followed after the Mass. The Crowning of the Image of the Virgin Mary and the Santakrusan was the culmination of the weekly veneration and flower offering to the Blessed Virgin Mary during the month of May. The three major Sagalas: Reyna Elena – Carmela Sikorski, Reyna de las Flores – Jennifer Paras and the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary – Megan Elizabeth Bugarin participated in the crowning ceremony and then led all the Sagalas and the flower girls and boys in the Santakrusan procession. Children of all ages, even little angels who could barely walk joined the procession around the village. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. Officially launched in 1988, whose main objective is evangelization but more specifically to give the Filipinos a “home church” where we could express our unique Filipino values within the context of the Catholic faith, tradition and practices. The Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan is one of the most important program of the FPM.
Congratulations to the Hermana Mayor Noemi Alfaro & Family and Nelia Cloma who worked hard to make the celebration successful. Likewise thank you to all the coordinators and members of the Santo Nino Prayers Groups of New York – Queens, Manhattan, Bronx and Brooklyn for your support in continuing the tradition.
Philippine Independence Day Parade
Last Sunday June 1, we all marched with pride showing our Filipino identity during the Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York City. Mabuhay tayong mga Filipino. Congratulations to Msgr. Oscar A. Aquino, this year’s Grand Marshall and to the organizers of this very successful event.
The Santo Nino Sinulog Group of Pompei led by MaryAnn Menendez represented the Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) this year’s PIDC annual parade. The Sinulog members carried the Santo Nino image while dancing in unison to the beat of the drum performed by Jun Makinano.
Following the FPM were the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral contingent led by Fr. Joseph Marabe,JCD. The officers and members carried the SGSK banner and the Big Parol, the reminder of the coming December festivities at St. Patricks Cathedral. Fr. Mike Lagrimas also marched with the group and Msgr. Romy Montero rode on the Gomburza float with two other priests.
Also in the parade were the Jamaica delegation of the SLRAA San Lorenzo Ruiz Knights and their Ladies who marched with the SGSK contingent. Drs. Fred and Florie Donaire and Dr. Prosy Lim led the SLRuiz Knights in the parade. They carried their banner and the ladies were all dressed in their best Filipina dresses with matching umbrellas.
San Lorenzo Ruiz Statue vandalized
It has been a puzzle until now why the San Lorenzo Ruiz Statue enshrined in front of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica Queens was vandalized. The statue was taken leaving only his two feet attached to the pedestal. It is very unfortunate that there are still many of our enemies who try to do away with our faith symbols. The Statue was enshrined on September 24, 2006 commemorating the 25th anniversary of the SLRAA. It has become the landmark for the devotees that come to the SLRuiz Center. Now it is gone. Several devotees offered to replace the statue, but for now Nick Libramonte, the SLRAA Director wanted it to remain as it is, a reminder of the sufferings that San Lorenzo Ruiz had endured during his martyrdom. We are still hoping that a good Samaritan will return the statue.
We are grateful to the support we received from the community, the NYPD and especially to Councilman James Gennaro of the 24th District who called a press conference when he learned about the vandalism. Nobody has come forward yet for the information. The NYPD Hate Crime division in Jamaica is handling the case.
Scalabrini Day June 1
Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs of St. James Church in Chinatown hosted the Scalabrini Day celebration. Each group representing the different parishes under the Scalabrinian Fathers made special presentation dedicated to Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini to commemorate his 103rd year anniversary. Ed Pascual and myself representing the San Lorenzo Ruiz – Jamaica group attended the event. The Brazilians, Italians, Latinos, Filipinos and English speaking members enjoyed the fellowship after the program. Fr. Joseph Fugolo, cs the Provincial Superior and the Scalabrinian Fathers also attended the event.
Ladies Guild of Pompei
The Three Societies and the Ladies Guild of Pompei hosted a brunch party for its members held at Figaro Restaurant in the village on May 17. The members enjoyed the food and the fun filled spring hat contest initiated by Bro. Michael LaMantia. Some selected members were asked to model the hats and paraded to the audience for the selection of the best. Rina’s hat won the first prize
Loboc Children’s Choir in NY
On May 9, we attended the concert of the Loboc Children’s Choir held at St. Emeric Church in Manhattan. The church was full despite the cold and rainy night. The internationally acclaimed Loboc Children’s Choir delighted the audience. Twenty angelic voices performed a repertoire of Songs of worship, songs from different cultures and of course the Filipiniana songs. Congratulations to Susan Gasis and to all the organizers of the successful NY concert.
New Priest, Fr. Ronald Perez
Rev. Fr. Ronald Penticostes Perez, the newly ordained priest, celebrated his first Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, New York on May 11, 2008. He shared the momentous event with his family, friends and fellow priests who were all present to witness the solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
He was the only Filipino among the nine priests ordained by Cardinal Edward Egan on May 10 at the Cathedral.
A chemical engineer by profession, he found his calling ten years ago after he unknowingly participated in the holy hour at St. Patricks Cathedral. He prayed in front of the Blessed Sacrament which he had never done before. It was the turning point as he began to think about the vocation later on. Congratulations and God Bless, Fr. Ronald
Congratulations to all the Graduates especially to:
Mary Grace Torres, a Gov. Pataki full time scholar, graduated from Baruch College. The proud parents Nonong and Neneng, members of the Simbang Gabi Sa Katedral (SGSK) Steering Committee, held a graduation party in her honor at the Visitation Church in the Bronx New York on May 17. Family and friends were present to enjoy the food and the line dancing. Congratulations and Good Luck. She will be joining JP Morgan this summer.

Cassandra Jayne Laurencio, graduated from Hunter College School of Nursing on May 28. She is the eldest daughter of Ramon and Conchita Laurencio, the founding members of the Santo Nino Prayer Group of New York and an active member of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. A graduation party was held by her proud parents at their home in Queens. A few years ago, she was the “baby” when the Santo Nino Prayer Group of New York begun. How time flies! Your Ninangs and Ninongs are very proud of you. Congratulations and All the Best, Cassandra.
Our Best Wishes to Dada Gurtiza and Mark Bertrand who will tie the knot on June 8 at St. Peter and Paul church in Hoboken, New Jersey. Dada is a long time volunteer and member of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. All the Best to both of You.
Happy Birthday!
The birthday celebrators for the month of May received a special birthday blessing from Fr. Romy Montero during the Santakrusan sa Village on Sunday May 25. Happy birthday to All: Alejandro Jacala, Rudy Riego, Kladys Glenn Lascano, Dennis Papa, Rene Gacho, Rosemarie Borgonia, Jareth Bona, Dan Papa, Laulhati Acuna, Sam Barreto, Ed Resurreccion, Robert Jose Tan, Germilina F. Cruz, Raze, Mary Ann Menendez, Azucena Ferrer, Isabel Gonzales, Boni & Zeny Papa, Bonifacio de la Cruz, Danielle Papa, Remy Esquivias, Cristita Garcia, Ramon Laurencio, Edna Viscondi, Ellen Monteirde, Leonora Figueroa, Nery Pascual, Nanding Castillo, Floro Gomez, Rhaiza Marie, Ligaya Gregoire, Joy Maniquez, Helen Macatulad.In loving remembrances of Fernanda Acosta Medrano on her 73rd Birthday and Fr. Bobby B. Sison on his 43rd Sacerdotal anniversary of Priesthood on May 30.
FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY OF POMPEI
Schedule of Activities
Filipino Masses
Every Sunday 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino*
Every Wednesday 6:30 P.M. Novena Mass Our Lady of Perpetual Help
June
1 Sun Philippine Independence Day Parade
6 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
14 Sat 6:30PM San Bartholomew 1st day Novena
Katbaloganon, U.S.A (All Sat of June 14,21,28)
15 Sun 3:00 PM SANTO NIÑO Feast Day/ Father=s Day
25th Year Anniversary of Santo Prayer Group of NY
25 Wed 6:30PM 20th Anniversary of Mother of Perpetual Help
at Pompei/ Feast day Celebration
Hermana Mayor: May Salvador, 2000 HM’s Outreach
29 Sun 3:00PM June Birthday celebration
*Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass
July
04 Fri 1:00 P.M. Independence Day/ FPM BBQ Party
Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
05 Sat 6:30 PM Novena Mass St. Bartholomew/Fellowship
(All Saturdays of July 5,12,19,26)
27 Sun 3:00PM July Birthday celebrations
August
01 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
02 Sat 6:30 PM Novena Mass St. Bartholomew/Fellowship
15 Tues 5:15PM Assumption
24 Sun 3:00PM St. Bartholomew - Feast day
31 Sun 3:00P.M. Our Lady of Nativity Feast day
August Birthday celebration
*Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass
9982





