Prepared by: AAMedrano 08/07/09

JULY 4TH BARBECUE PARTY

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On June 24, 2009 the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei Church celebrated it’s 21st anniversary of “Baclaran sa Village. The fiesta was the culmination of the weekly perpetual novena in honor of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, a devotion so close to the hearts of every Filipinos. The 21st anniversary of the launching of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry was also celebrated.

The celebration started with the Rosary, the prayer to Mother of Perpetual Help and then the concelebrated Mass. Msgr. Romulo T. Montero, was the main celebrant and the concelebrants were Fr. Ronaldo Vecchiato, Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Fr. Lito Cabatuan, and Fr. Ninoy Vinluan, the homilists.

The lectors were Glen Sakdalan, Janet Rivera, Cora del Mar. Peter Adamcyzk provided the music. The Filipino Choir of Our Lady Pompei participated in the singing.

The past hermana and hermano mayores led the offering of flowers and gifts followed by the sponsors and donors. The family of the Hermano Mayor led by Mel and Lou with their children Saira, Cedie and Carmeena brought the gifts, water and wine and the ciborium to the altar.

Thank you to all our Novena/Mass sponsors, the past hermano and hermana mayores and devotees of Our Mother of Perpetual Help who attended the celebration because without your support and prayers, all these would not have been possible.

Congratulations to the Hermano and Hermana Mayor, Mrs. & Mrs. Mel and Lou Escobar and their family, for the successful fiesta celebration. Their efforts to make the celebration successful were commendable. There were plenty of food prepared by the Hermana Mayor herself, lechons and other Filipino delicacies. They also gave away t-shirts and rosaries and other gifts to the devotees.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to all the devotees, friends and benefactors for your unrelenting support, your sincere commitment to attend every Wednesday’s novena. We appreciate your help in celebrating all the weekly Masses and novena. Likewise, we thank Bro. Michael LaMantia, C.S. for his “helping hand” without which our celebration today as well as our weekly novenas will not be done so easily. Maraming Salamat Po!

JULY 4TH BARBECUE PARTY

Msgr. Romulo Montero invited everyone to partake in the 9th annual potluck Barbecue party of the FPM to be held at the parking pot of the Our Lady of Pompei church. Friends, volunteers and staff will share in the annual celebration.

The celebration will be more exciting this year because of the Macy’s Fireworks display will be held in the west side of Manhattan, closer to Our Lady of Pompei. It will be convenient for us to see the fireworks after the BBQ party.

St. Bartholomew Novena

The Katbaloganon Association, USA continued their annual tradition honoring St. Bartholomew, the patron saint of Catbalogan, Samar with a Novena Mass. It started on June 6 and every Saturdays thereafter until July 25 at Our Lady of Pompei Church. The Katbaloganons come to the village to attend Novena Mass and of course with the traditional salu-salo after the Mass. Msgr. Romulo Montero, the spiritual director of the association celebrates the Mass every Saturday at 6:30 p.m. Starting on July 4, they will begin the practice of the Rigodon de Honor for their 37th annual dinner dance to be held on July 31 at Sheraton Hotel in New Jersey.

Mr. Marito Go is the current president and Ruth Marcial is the hermana mayor for this year’s 37th anniversary fiesta celebration. We congratulate their effort to make the weekly novena successful.

Today is the 20th year that the Katbaloganons held their Novena Mass in honor of St. Bartholomew at Our Lady of Pompei Through the initiative of Fr. Bobby Sison, Pompei became their permanent home church where they hold the annual Novena Mass and sometimes the whole day affair. In the early years, the weekly novena were held in the homes of the different families who sponsored the novena. Now it became the annual tradition in the village that every member look forward to every year. The Katbaloganons continued the tradition in the village through the guidance of the spiritual advisers -Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Dave Sison.

Flores de Mayo sa Village 2009

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Schedule of Activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei

Misang Pilipino every Sunday 3:00 P.M.

Novena Mass every Wednesday 6:30 P.M.

Mass and Holy Hour every First Friday 6:30 P.M.

June 6 Novena and Mass in honor of St. Bartholomew

Sponsored by the Katbaloganon Association, USA. Mass starts at 6:30 P.M. on nine consecutive Saturdays until the feast day celebration. The Sison Family led by Mr. & Mrs. Narding Sison are the novena Mass sponsors for the first week.

June 7 Philippine Independence Day Parade

The volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei will join the Philippine Independence Day Parade with the members and volunteers Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK) and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel.

June 21 Sun Santo Nino Fiesta and Fathers Day celebration

Mass starts at 3:00 P.M. Tagalog Mass, blessing of children, images of Santo Nino, Father Days blessing and Pistahan, Kantahan, Sayawan, kainan. This year’s host is the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York -Elmhurst and Brooklyn chapter led by Norma de Jesus and Cora del Mar, the Hermana Mayor of this celebration.

June 24 Wed Baclaran sa Village, Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

Mass and Novena starts at 6:30 P.M. followed by the reception at the Father Demo Hall. Mr. & Mrs. Mel and Lulu Escobar are this year’s Hermano and Hermana Mayor. The Feast day celebration is the culmination of the nine days perpetual prayers and Mass that started on April 22.

July 04 Sat FPM Independence Day Barbeque Party.

Held every year at the backyard of the Our Lady of Pompei except last year were the FPM Barbeque Party was held in the spacious back yard of Nanding and Marilyn Castillo. Please come and join us. It is potluck.

May Birthday Celebrants

The birthday celebrators for the month of May received a special birthday blessing from Fr. Romy Montero during the May 24 Sunday Mass. 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, Rhaiza Marie, Ligaya Gregoire, Joy Maniquez, Helen Macatulad.

In loving remembrances of Narding Medrano on her 74st Birthday and Fr. Bobby B. Sison on his 44st Sacerdotal anniversary of Priesthood on May 30.

Participants of the 19th Annual Santakrusan sa Village at Our Lady of Pompei

Altar Boys: Kevin Villanueva, Gabriel Marquez, John Adam Rodriquez; Lead Marshal: Ernie Bugarin; Roving Marshals: Ed Pascual, Cely Medrano, Bobby Villanueva, BAND: Red Mike Marching Band. FPM Laksambayan Banner-Bearer: Norma de Jesus; Bearer Philippine Flag: Sammy Pinangay, Bearer USA Flag: Danny Maligaya. SPG-NY Banner -Bearer: Ricardo Menendez; SANTO NIÑO Bearers: Abe Laforteza, Jun Makinano ,Ric Guy, Danny Concepcion.

Queen of Nations –Philippines - Ashley Laurencio; Escort: Jojo Sahni; USA -Kimberly Gilmore, Escort : L. John, Morning Star - Allysa Lara Lugares, Escort: Carlo Basconcillo; Tower of Ivory - Christine Joy Barretto, 1st Marshals - Evelyn Gomez, Dayday Unarosa; House of Gold- Angelica Calderon; Escort: Philson Caballes; Cause of our Joy- Janelle Avelino, ,Escort : Reggie Avelino; Mirror of Justice - Genevive Amoncio; Escort: Dimitri Gomez; Virtues FAITH- Cassandra Cloma, HOPE - Chiara Laurene Perez, CHARITY- Shiean Mercado 2nd Marshals - Nelia Villanueva, Aida Valdeviezo; Queen of Confessors - Jade Tapia; Queen of Mercy - Saira Escobar; Queen of Martyrs - Rochelle Amoncio; Escort :Joseph Dobouzet; Queen of Prophets - Jelene Dela Cruz, Escort - Christopher Blanquera; Queen of Patriachs - Charlene Canales, Escor: Michael Canales; Queen of Apostles - Angela Taldone, Escort: Anthony Taldone, Queen of Peace -Kristianne Castill, Escort: Mark Castillo; 3rd Marshals - Marilyn Castillo, Maxie Chavez.

ANGELS - Poebe Madrid, Bea Laforteza, Alexandra I. Dimagmaliw, Isabella Allegan, Tiffany Adalen, Kathrianne Muchuelas, Lerie Anne Perez, Angeline Calle; 4th Marshals: Josie Bueno, Nancy Hombrebueno; Queen of Angels - Kayzel Sangalang, Escort: J.L. Sangalang; AVE MARIA -Sarah Mc Dermontt, Zoe Canlas, Jessenia Calle, Katherine Laurencio, Melissa Karaer, Urania Someras, Abegail Laforteza, Jalyn Rivera; 5th Marshals: Tess Salvador, Glenda Dizon

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary - Jessica Mae Infante, Escort:Mark Hilario, Rosary Bearer - Alexis J. Lujares,; Flores de Mayo Hermanita - Catherine Espina, Hermanito - Andrew Calderon . Reyna de las Flores - Samantha Mercado, Escort: Paolo Mercado;Flower Girl - Alyssa Valdez

FLOWER GIRLS and BOYS - KC Lorovico, Tiffany Gadais, Krisnina Magpantay,Roniel Urmasa, Kenneth Lorovico, Andrea Chavez, Migue Laforteza, Mikaela Marquez, Angelica Redzyniak, Rhiana Muchuelas, Bianca Guese, Chloe de la Vega, Kyla Guese, Carlo Jay Yturralde, Miguel Yturralde, Christian Yturralde, Catherine Espina, Andrew Calderon, Dylan Taganas, Poebe Marbid, Philip Marbid, Pierre Marbid, Carmina Escobar, Tiffany J. Amoncio, Sharmin Sabado, Paula Agustin, Dylan Taganas, Jason Caballes, Jasmine Salvador, Anna Wong, Lucas Sena, Isabella Cuevas, Veronica Wong, Aaliyah Rivera, Jaylyn Rivera, Amy Garcia, Jeffrey Garcia. 6th Marshals: Annie Swanson, Susan Gamallo, Nelia Cloma

Constantino - Milo Erana-Dizon; Reyna Elena - Samantha Velasquez, Escort - Dante Velasquez, Jr.; 7th Marshals: Sally Alonso, Chit Laurencio, Mila Erana; The Clergy – Msgr. Romy Montero, Fr. Lito Cabatuan; The BLESSED VIRGIN MARY – Bearers: Nanding Castillo, Ben Dizon, Freddie Salvador, Ed Pili; Rosary Leaders - Helen Macatulad, Malu Bugarin.

Prayer

Dear All,

Ed Pascual had a mild heart attack last Monday. He is going to have a surgical procedure today, please include him in your prayers for the success of the surgery.

Thanks,
Cely

19th Sayawan sa Village

For years the Sayawan sa Village has always been the leading event in the village because of your support. The Filipino Pastoral Ministry hosted another successful event this year sponsored by the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPGNY) on Saturday April 18, 2009. We are grateful to all of you for your continued patronage. Congratulations to the new members who energized the event. And for all those who missed the all night dancing event, we hope to see you next year.

Novena Mass to Santo Nino

The Sayawan Village kicked off the many activities at Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPGNY). The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York, now on it’s 26th year anniversary propagating the devotion to Santo Nino, continues to be the link to our kababayans that the Filipino Pastoral Ministry serves. It’s members have a vital role in promoting the programs and activities of the ministry.

The Novena Mass in preparation for the 26th Santo Nino Fiesta started on April 19 and every Sunday thereafter until the Feast day on June 21. The family members of the different chapters of the SPG/NY attend the Novena Mass.

The SPGNY Brooklyn Chapter is the host for this year’s celebration. Norma de Jesus, coordinator and Corazon del Mar, the hermana mayor coordinates the weekly novena and the preparation of the Santo Nino Fiesta celebration.

If you would like to be one of the sponsors during each week, or if you have petitions and thanksgiving prayer to Santo Nino, please contact the Filipino Pastoral Ministry c/o Fr. Romy Montero (212) 727 0214 or the Chapter Coordinators of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York : Norma de Jesus -Brooklyn, Josie Bueno - Manhattan, Noemi Alfaro - Queens and Alma Cruz - Bronx.

Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village 2009

Flores De Mayo started on Sunday May 3 at Our Lady of Pompei with the children and adults participated in the offering flowers to the Virgin Mary. The Sunday celebration is in preparation for the Crowning and Santakrusan sa Village on May 31.

We are grateful to Bro. Michael of Our Lady of Pompei and his helpers who every year set up the life size image of our Lady for the Sunday activities.

Save the Date: May 31, 2009 – 19th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei is now accepting Sagalas or applicants for the 19th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village. If you would like your sons and daughters to participate in this yearly event in the village, please contact Nelia Cloma, the Santakrusan sa Village Hermana Mayor and Aida Valdeviezo, Assistant Hermana Mayor.

Baclaran sa Village - Feast of Mother of Perpetual Help

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) continues to welcome devotees every Wednesday at Pompei for the Novena Mass in honor of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. The Baclaran sa Village is now on its 21st year. On April 22, 2009 the perpetual Novena Mass at Our Lady of Pompei Church in preparation for the 21st Feast Day of Our Mother Perpetual Help on June 24 begun. Every Wednesday through the feast day, there will be the Exposition of the Holy Eucharist, Rosary and Novena at 6:00 P.M followed by the Mass at 6:30 P.M. Mr. and Mrs. Mel and Lulu Escobar are the Hermano and Hermana Mayor of the 2009 Baclaran sa Village.

Thanksgiving for the Incardination of Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD

Deo Gratias! The newly incardinated to the Archdiocese of New York Fr. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD and Francisco Lanzaderas celebrated a thanksgiving party at the Our Lady of Pompei Church Fr. Demo Hall sponsored by the friends and volunteers of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK), San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel. The party was held on April 26 hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. There were of food and drinks for all the guests.

Fr. Marabe and Fr. Lanzaderas were incardinated into the Archdiocese of New York on March 16, 2009 in the Incardination ceremony officiated by his Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan.

There were several priests who attended the party. A special dance number was performed by the Team Ministry of San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel led by Fr. Joseph Marabe, Fr. Romy Montero, Fr. Nil Villavisa, Fr. Romy Hontiveros with Fr. Lito Cabatuan and the members of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei line dance group.

SLRAA Project Thailand

Welcome back to Nick Libramonte and Casto Changho of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, (SLRAA) who came from their mission to Thailand. It was indeed a very successful journey for both of them enduring the eighteen hours travel by bus from the city of Bangkok to reach the Muhakhi village in Mae Song. Traveling with them was the life size image of San Lorenzo Ruiz which is now enshrined in the church. They met the village people who were so grateful because their prayers to have their own church was answered. They attended the inauguration of the newly built church named San Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic church located in a cleared area on top of the mountain in Muhakhi. The inauguration and the first Mass was officiated by Bishop Joseph Sangval, Bishop of Chiang Mai Diocese on April 18, 2009. Fr. Sutee Charoenkul was contact person of SLRAA for the project.

Project Thailand is a religious, social and humanitarian outreach program of the SLRAA Foreign Mission initiated by Casto Changho. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church will be used by the village people as a place of worship with space to hold more than 50 people. Currently, they pack the village leader's house for services. A center for community gatherings and other community function. A Village Shelter during typhoons since the village houses are mostly made of bamboo and leaves. Welcoming center for visiting village leaders from other tribes. As showcase for the Catholic church to the mountain hill tribes and also to propagate the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini. Learning center for educating the village people about Christianity.

Another project of the SLRAA in Bangkok is to support the newly established Migrant Center for Filipinos at the Mary Help of Christian Church. The center was initiated by Fr. Tamayo, a Salesian priest to help the displaced migrant Filipinos who need help in the city.

Feast Day of Our Lady of Manaoag sa Jamaica

On Sunday May 3, San Lorenzo Ruiz Association in America, Inc. (SLRAA) held a successful celebration of the Feast Day of the Most Holy Rosary Our Lady of Manaoag held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica, Queens. The celebration was hosted by the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional chapter – Jamaica Estates.

Despite the rainy afternoon, many devotees of Our Lady of Manaoag and San Lorenzo Ruiz came to participate in the celebration. The procession was held inside the church.

Msgr. Oscar Aquino officiated the installation of the new Hermana Mayores Ms. Lita Solis and Ms. Celeste Gomez. The two Hermanas received the medals of our Lady of Manaoag as the symbol of their hermandad. Celeste Gomez crowned the Virgin Mary with flowers assisted by her nephew Ronald Bregendahl. Lita Solis lighted the candles assisted by his son Watus Solis. Lita led the Prayer to Lady of Manaoag.

The concelebrating priests were Msgr. Oscar Aquino, J.C.D., main celebrant, Fr. Jed Sumampong, C.P., Pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, the homilist, Fr. Ninoy Vinluan, Fr. Lito Cabatuan and Fr. Mike Lagrimas, the master of ceremonies. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Knights led by Romy Zamudio, Douglas Ealdama, Dado Acayan and Ed Pascual were the altar servers.

The congregation participated in the offering of flowers to Our Lady of Manaoag led by the flower girls – Rita Bregendahl and Kate Bautista during the offertory. Each one were given a red rose to offer. Other offerors were Elna and Evan Prado – basket of fruits, Celeste Gomez – Wine, Lita Solis – Ciborium, James Bautista for the petition basket.

Other participants in the Mass were: Lectors - Geraldine Solis & Joepet de Venecia; Petition readers – Menchie Pulido, Alex Dy, Rose Calicdan, Eleanor Parico, Ramon Filoteo, Baby de la Isla, Willie Pacleba, Raul Calicdan. The offerors were Elna & Evan Prado. Mr. Ed Burkard the music director of the Immaculate Conception and the cantor Sally Alonso of Our Lady of Pompei church collaborated in providing the music for the Mass.

A reception followed after the Mass. There were music, good food and raffle prizes for the attendees. Congratulations to the Hermana Mayores and their families – Celeste Gomez and Lita Solis. And of course to the officers and members of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional chapter for doing the heavy work in making the event very successful.

Salu-Salo Para Kay San Lorenzo sa Philippine Center

Judging by the attendance, the Salu-salo Para Kay San Lorenzo Ruiz hosted by the Philippine Consul General Cecile Rebong at the Philippine consulate on April 24 was a success.

Consul Rebong gave the welcome address saying that she will do everything to bring the Filipino American community together. We should show One identity as Filipino, one Faith because whatever we do, benefits everybody, the people, and our country. She appealed to the community to support the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz to show to the archdiocese of New York and the city of New York our unity as a Filipino community and to work as one.

Fr. Joseph Marabe and Ambassador Hilario Davide gave inspirational appeal to the community. Ambassador Davide hoped that the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz will be the symbol of unity, a real hope, reaching out to many people and pray that the Team Ministry will be able to do their work in accordance with the plan of God.

The purpose of the meeting was to address the status of the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz, discuss how the team can continue to minister to the spiritual needs of the Filipino Catholic community. The idea was initiated by Architect Zonny Lerum to appeal for the participation of the civic and religious organization in the different spiritual activities with the key challenge of showing “unity” in offering their commitment to pursue the spiritual mission of the Chapel.

A question and answer forum was conducted by Fr. Joseph Marabe and Fr. Nil Villavisa.

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK)

The SGSK will kickoff the celebration with a dinner dance fund raising “People’s Ball” to be held on August 8, 2009. It will be a joint project of the SGSK and the Philippine Fiesta. Reservation for the dance is now available.

Save the Date – September 20, 2009

The Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz will celebrate the feast day celebration of San Lorenzo Ruiz on September 20 to be held at Cathedral of Saint Patrick. Bishop Oscar Solis, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, CA will be the main celebrant of Mass for the feast day celebration of San Lorenzo Ruiz. The Novena Masses in preparation for the feast day will be held at the Chapel.

Birthdays and baptism

Congratulations to the newly baptized Christopher Salvador Go, son of the proud Mom and Dad Elvira Macaraig and Joon Go. Msgr. Romy Montero officiated the ceremony at Our Lady of Pompei on April 25.

Happy Birthday to all the celebrants for the month of April and May.

FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY of Our Lady of Pompei SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

May 2009

Wednesday 6:30 P.M. Mother of Perpetual Help
Sunday 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino * First Friday 6:30 P.M. Mass and Holy Hour

May

01 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
03 Sun 3:00 PM Start of FLORES DE MAYO (All Sundays of May)
09 Sat 6:00 PM Seminar DIVINE ECONOMICS by Fr. Mike Lagrimas
10,17,24 Sun 3:00 PM Novena Mass for Santo Nino
06 Wed 6:30 PM Perpetual Novena Mother of Perpetual Help
10 Sun 3:00 PM Mother’s Day
24 Sun 3:00 PM May Birthday Celebration
31 Sun 3:00 PM 19th Annual May Crowning & SANTAKRUSAN
*Free Ballroom and Line Dancing & Fellowship after the Sunday Mass

Mga Hapenings sa Vilage

By AA Medrano April 2009

19th SAYAWAN SA VILLAGE

Please come and join us to the 19th Annual Sayawan sa Village sponsored by the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York and the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei in Manhattan. It will be held on April 18, 2009 Saturday 7:00 P.M. to midnight. The donation is $ 20. Aside from dancing (disco, ballroom and line dance) there will be raffle prizes and good food. Tell your friends and family to come and enjoy the evening.

The proceeds of the Sawayan sa Village will be used to support the programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to help defray the expenses for the 19th Annual Flores De Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village, and the 26th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta.

Tickets will also be available at the entrance door. For more information please call: FPM office c/o Fr. Romy 212 727 0214, Nancy – 917 294 4203, Malou –917 515 4764, Nelia C. 718 844 2829, Maxie – 914 874 7762.

PABASA NG PASYON – San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center

We are grateful to all the devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno who participated in the annual Pabasa ng Pasyon sa Village sponsored by Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamaica, Queens. Many came to participate on different hour thus the timing and taking turns to sing while others could rest for a while helped to finish the book in record time. Msgr. Romy Montero celebrated the anticipated Palm Sunday Mass after the Pabasa was finished.

The Pabasa started at 9:00 P.M. on Friday April 3 and continued through the next day Saturday April 4. Since it was First Friday, there was a Novena Mass at 7:30 P.M. officiated by Msgr. Oscar Aquino. The Rosary, the Stations of the Cross and the Novena to the Poon Hesus Nazareno were recited before the Mass.

Congratulations to the Hermano and Hermana Mayor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village, Jun and Amelia Makinano and their family for the successful and very meaningful Pabasa ng Pasyon. We are also grateful to Fr. Romy Montero and Fr. Mike Lagrimas and to all the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry for the continued support of this Lenten Filipino tradition.

The in-house daily Pabasa ng Pasyon at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center hosted by the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group will start on April 6 – 8 at 7:00 P.M. to Midnight and on April 9 –10 at 9:00 A.M to 1:00 P.M. There are different sponsors on each day of the Pabasa.

Novena Mass to Santo Nino

It is once again time for the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei Church to welcome the family members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPG/NY) for the annual nine days Novena Mass in preparation for the feast day in honor of Santo Nino. Starting on April 19, the member and sponsor families of each chapter of the SPGNY will come together every Sunday to attend the Novena Mass. The weekly transfer of the Santo Nino images between the sponsor families will be done in the church.

The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York, now on it’s 26th year anniversary propagating the devotion to Santo Nino, continues to be the link to our kababayans that the Filipino Pastoral Ministry serves. It’s members have a vital role in promoting the programs and activities of the ministry.

The SPGNY Brooklyn Chapter is the host for this year’s celebration. Norma de Jesus, coordinator and Corazon del Mar, the hermana mayor will coordinate the weekly novena starting and the preparation of the Santo Nino Fiesta celebration on June 21.

If you would like to be one of the sponsors during each week, or if you have petitions and thanksgiving prayer to Santo Nino, please contact the Filipino Pastoral Ministry c/o Fr. Romy Montero (212) 727 0214 or the Chapter Coordinators of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York : Norma de Jesus -Brooklyn, Josie Bueno - Manhattan, Noemi Alfaro - Queens and Alma Cruz - Bronx.

Feast of the Annunciation

The Feast of Annunciation was celebrated at Our Lady of Pompei church on Wednesday, March 25with the Mass officiated by Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Fritz Penaranda, a visiting priests from the Philippines delivered the homily. The Mass was attended by the devotees of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and many parishioners of Our Lady of Pompei church.

A visiting choir from Algona Iowa, the Bishop Garrigan High School Choir sang in the Mass. We were happy to welcome them at Our Lady of Pompei and grateful for sharing their beautiful music. The choir was composed of 46 students representing all grade levels. Most of its members have earned recognition as solo and as a group and to have been selected for the Iowa All State Chorus. Mrs. Linda Ferjak was the choir director. Taking advantage of the spring break, the choir together with their teachers and chaperone traveled by bus from Iowa for a tour of New York.

Baclaran sa Village - Feast of Mother of Perpetual Help

Save the Date: April 22, 2009 is the start of the nine Wednesdays perpetual Novena Mass in preparation for the 21st Feast Day of Our Mother of Perpetual Help at Our Lady of Pompei Church on June 24. The Exposition of the Holy Eucharist, Rosary and Novena will start at 6:00 P.M followed by the Mass at 6:30 P.M.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) continues to welcome devotees every Wednesday at Pompei for the Novena Mass in honor of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. The Baclaran sa Village now on its 21st year gained momentum among the Filipinos that other churches with many Filipino parishioners followed the lead of the FPM.

19th Sayawan sa Village

Please come and join us to the 19th Annual Sayawan sa Village sponsored by the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York and the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei in Manhattan. It will be held on April 18, 2009 Saturday 7:00 P.M. to midnight. The donation is $ 20. Aside from dancing (disco, ballroom and line dance) there will be raffle prizes and good food. Tell your friends and family to come and enjoy the evening.

The proceeds of the Sawayan sa Village will be used to support the programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to help defray the expenses for the 19th Annual Flores De Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village, and the 26th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta.

Tickets will also be available at the entrance door. For more information please call: FPM office c/o Fr. Romy 212 727 0214, Nancy – 917 294 4203, Malou –917 515 4764, Nelia C. 718 844 2829, Maxie – 914 874 7762.

Good Friday Way of the Cross over the Brooklyn Bridge to Ground Zero

The Annual Brooklyn Bridge Way of the Cross has become part of the Good Friday activity for the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) of Our Lady of Pompei Church. Fr. Romy Montero will lead the members of the FPM and the devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno of Pompei in the Good Friday Annual Way of the Cross. The procession will start from St. James Cathedral at 250 Cathedral Place in Brooklyn, stopping at City Hall Park, Ground Zero and end at St Peter’s Church in Lower Manhattan. At each stop, there will be readings from the Passion, meditation, reflection and songs by the choir.

There has been an overwhelming number of participants every year including the devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno. If you would like to join the group from Pompei for the procession, the meeting time is at 9:00A.M. The Pompei group will travel together by Subway to the assembly place at St. James Cathedral. For more info, please call the FPM office c/o Fr. Romy Montero 212 727 0214.

Easter Sunday Celebration

In addition to the usual fellowship after the 3:00 P.M. Tagalog Mass, there will be an Easter Sunday treat for the Kids. The kids ages 1 to 12 will take center stage in the annual Easter Sunday celebration hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. It will be a fun filled event for the kids -Egg hunting, egg painting and games. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of the best painted egg, best egg hunter and other fun games. All the kids will receive Easter party gifts from Ashley and Katherine Laurencio family, the host of the Annual Children’s Easter Sunday celebration. Bring your kids and friends to enjoy the fun on April 12.

Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village 2009

Save the Date: May 31, 2009 – 19th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei is now accepting Sagalas or applicants for the 19th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village. If you would like your sons and daughters to participate in this yearly event in the village, please contact Nelia Cloma, the Santakrusan sa Village Hermana Mayor and Aida Valdeviezo, Assistant Hermana Mayor.

For the Flores de Mayo, we welcome the children ages 2 to 12 to participate in the weekly flower offering to the Virgin Mary starting on May 3 after the 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino. Please contact Aida Valdeviezo, the coordinator for the Flores de Mayo or call the FPM office 212 727 0214.

March Birthday Celebrators at Pompei

Celebrating birthdays has become part of the weekly fellowship at Our Lady of Pompei Church after the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass every Sunday. Every week birthday celebrators join the Mass and celebrate their birthdays at Pompei. At times, the celebrators become the sponsors for the week that provide the food. Every last Sunday of the month, all the birthday celebrants are invited for the special birthday blessing as well as for the big birthday party.

Happy Birthday to all the Birthday Celebrators for the month of March are as follows: Chit & Katherine Laurencio, Crisanto Gutierrez, Glenda Gutierrez, Ed Pascual, Gigi Gonzales, Ernie Bugarin, Norma de Jesus, Nelia Cloma, Nestor Nepomuceno, Alexandra & Daisy Penaredondo-Armas, Vanina Cruz, Del Chavez, Ronnie Chavez, Lydia Duran, Lea Arce, Mila Javier, Myrna Miguel, Sylvia Peny, Annaliza Gutierrez, Gloria Rose Gutierrez, Emily Crisologo, Mel Cortes, Robert Tan, Mylene Valenzuela, Abel Baylon, Vince Cueva, Divina Macaraig, Lolita Palma, Jae Tamale, Robert Tagle, Archie Reyes, Girlie Suarez, Victor Sagucio, Reynaldo Ingco Jr., Jason Felix Reyes, Priscilla Margaret Alimario, Paulo Martin Alimario, Arlene Padilla.

And a memorial remembrance to Nanay Choling Sison for her birthday on March 15 and for her 3rd year death anniversary on March 28, 2009.

SAN LORENZO RUIZ CENTER – Jamaica Queens

168-41 84th Avenue, Jamaica Hills, NY 11432

Prayer Service
• Tuesday - San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, Our Lady of Manaoag and Blessed John B. Scalabrini.
• Friday – Poon Hesus Nazareno
• First Tuesday - Scalabrini Lay Movement (SLM) Formation Seminar conducted by Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs.

The Feast of Our Lady of Manaoag

• May 3, Sunday 3:00 P.M. SLRAA Devotional Group will hold the annual feast day in honor of the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary – Our Lady of Manaoag. This year’s Hermana mayores are Lita Solis and Celeste Gomez. It will be held at the Immaculate Conception church in Jamaica, Queens.
• April 24 to May 2 Novena Mass daily at the SLRAA Center at 7:30 P.M in preparation for the May Feast day of Our Lady of Manaoag. Please send your request for prayers and Mass Intention to be included in your preferred date.

Direction to San Lorenzo Ruiz Center:

Subway: Take the F train to 169 Street Stop, (the 2nd to the last stop of the F train). Exit at Hillside Ave, go up the hill on 169th Street passing Highland Ave. and Gothic St. to 84th Ave. The SLR Center is at the corner of 169th St and 84th Ave.

CHAPEL OF SAN LORENZO RUIZ

378 Broome St. New York, NY 10013

Salu-Salo Para Kay San Lorenzo sa Philippine Center

The New York Archdiocese’ Filipino Apostolate and the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ Team Ministry is inviting the different civic and religious organization for a Salu-salo on April 24, Friday, 6:30 P.M. at the Philippine Center to be hosted by the Consul General Cecile Rebong.

The purpose of the meeting is to address the status of the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz, discuss how the team can continue to minister to the spiritual needs of the Filipino Catholic community. Identified as the official “Church of the Filipinos” by Edward Cardinal Egan of the Archbishop of New York and named after the First Filipino Saint, the Team ministry would like to appeal for the participation of the civic and religious organization in the different spiritual activities with the key challenge of showing “unity” in offering their commitment to pursue the spiritual mission of the Chapel.

Although not an official parish church, Cardinal Egan has authorized the chapel to offer weekday and weekend masses and all the Sacraments of the Church except the Sacrament of Confirmation. Sunday Masses, Filipino-style weddings, baptism and funerals may be done in the chapel. Devotions dear to the Filipinos – Our Mother of Perpetual Help is now held every Wednesday. The chapel and the social hall are also available for recollection, group seminars, and meetings. The chapel also welcome all peoples regardless of ethnicity and background to attend its services and to participate in Chapel events.

For reservation, please contact Reynor Santiago – 212 966 1019 at the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz or Marivic Dimaculangan 212 764 1330 Ext. 310 at the Philippine Center.

Save the Date – September 20, 2009

The Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz will celebrate the feast day celebration of San Lorenzo Ruiz on September 20 to be held at Cathedral of Saint Patrick. Bishop Oscar Solis, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, CA will be the main celebrant of Mass for the feast day celebration of San Lorenzo Ruiz. The Novena Masses in preparation for the feast day will be held at the Chapel.

Incardination of Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD

Fr. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD was incardinated into the Archdiocese of New York on March 16, 2009 in the Incardination ceremony officiated by his Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan. He was one of the 14 priests including Fr. Francisco Lanzaderas of the Blessed Sacrament parish in Staten Island.

In addition to his responsibility as Parochial vicar at Saint Patricks Cathedral, Father Joseph is a judge on the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of New York. He is also the Moderator of the Team Ministry of the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz and the Temporary Coordinator of the Filipino Apostolate of the Archdiocese of New York.

Fr. Jose Guevarra Marabe, JCD was born in Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Philippines and attended school there. After graduating from Holy Rosary Major Seminary, Naga City, he was ordained in Luneta Park, Manila on November 28, 1970 by Pope Paul VI. Father Marabe holds a Doctoral Degree in Canon Law from the Lateran University in Rome where he graduated Summa Cum Laude and speaks four languages. Father Joseph, as he likes to be called, akin to his motto "Ite Ad Joseph" (Go to Joseph), has had a long and varied priesthood.

The FPM Pompei Family Greetings

The sayawan sa village flyer

Some of the participants of the 2009 Pabasa ng Pasyon sa Village held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center sponsored by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei.

March 2009 Lenten Services at Our Lady of Pompei

First Friday Holy Hour

Filipino/ English 6:30 – 8:00 P.M.
Brazilian 8:00 - 9:00 P.M.

Way of the Cross - Every Friday 7:00 P.M.

Palm Sunday - April 5, 2009 Filipino Mass 3:00 P.M.

Holy Thursday - Washing of the Feet at April 9, 2009 7:00 PM.

Good Friday - Veneration of the Cross April 10, 2009 7:00 P.M.

Easter Vigil Mass - April 11,2009 8:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

Easter Sunday - April 12, 2009 Filipino Mass 3:00 P.M.

Choir from Ohio will sing in the Mass for the Feast of Annunciation

On Wednesday, March 25, a group of 50 students from Ohio will sing at the 6:30 P.M. Novena Mass for Our Lady of Perpetual Help at Our Lady of Pompei Church. The Mass is being offered also for the Feast of the Annunciation. Please come and hear them sing during the Mass. For more info, please the Rectory 212 989 6806 or 212 727 0214

Pabasa ng Pasyon

The devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno will hold the Pabasa ng Pasyon on April 3 and 4 - sponsored by the FPM Pompei Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village Hermano/Hermana Mayores. Non-stop from Friday 8:00 P.M. to Saturday 2:00 P.M. There will be a concelebrated Mass and the Blessing of the Palms at the end of the Pabasa. On April 6 to 10 the daily Pabasa ng Pasyon is sponsored by the San Lorenzo Devotional Group – Jamaica Estate. Daily 7:30 P.M. to Midnight on Holy Monday to Good Friday

Way of the Cross over the Brooklyn Bridge

The devotees of Poon Hesus Nazareno are invited to join the Way of the Cross over the Brooklyn Bridge on Good Friday April 10, 2009. The procession will start from the Cathedral of St. James in Brooklyn, cross the bridge stopping at City Hall Park, Ground Zero. The Way of the Cross will end at St. Peter’s Church, 22 Barclay St. If you would like to join the group from Pompei for the procession, the meeting time is at 9:00A.M. The Pompei group will travel together by Subway to the assembly place at St. James Cathedral. For more info, please call the FPM office c/o Fr. Romy Montero 212 727 0214.

Easter Sunday Celebration and the Children’s Easter Egg Hunting

In addition to the usual fellowship after the 3:00 P.M. Tagalog Mass, there will be an Easter Sunday treat for the Kids. Children will enjoy the egg painting, egg hunting and other fun games and surprises. Bring your kids and friends to enjoy the fun on April 12.

19th Sayawan sa Village – April 18

You are invited to the 19th Annual Sayawan sa Village sponsored by Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei and the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York on April 18. It will be a 7:00 PM to midnight dancing. The donation is $ 20. Aside from dancing (disco, ballroom and line dance) there will be raffle prizes and good food. Tell your friends and family to come and enjoy the evening. Tickets will also be available at the entrance door. For more information please call: FPM office c/o Fr. Romy 212 727 0214, Nancy – 917 294 4203, Malou –917 515 4764, Nelia C. 718 844 2829, Maxie – 914 874 7762.

Santo Nino Novena Mass – April 19

Save the Date: April 19 and every Sunday thereafter, the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York will start the Novena Mass in preparation for the Feast of Santo Nino on June 21. Santo Nino devotees and member families are invited to join the weekly Novena Mass at Pompei. (See the FPM Schedule of Activities)

SGSK Thanksgiving Party

On February 22, the Simbang Gabi Sa Katedral Steering Committee held the second annual SGSK Thanksgiving party at Our Lady of Pompei Fr. Demo Hall. The party was held to acknowledge all the precious sacrifices of the SGSK volunteers, members and officers they offered for the successful December 6, 2008 Simbang Gabi sa Katedral celebration. Many came to enjoy the music, dancing, singing and of course, the Filipino food. Marami Pong Salamat.

FPM Planning Session

On February 15 and 16 the volunteers and members of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry attended the meeting held in New Jersey. Fr. Mike Lagrimas was the moderator in the discussion of issues, views, interaction and suggestions to improve the program and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to better serve the community as a welcoming church for the Filipinos in New York. There were thirty participants in the overnight brainstorming session. A second session was held on February 21 to formulate a new and improve vision and mission of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. We are grateful to all the volunteers and members who participated in the FPM Planning especially Fr. Mike Lagrimas who gave his time and expertise to make the planning happened.

Bishop of Sorsogon celebrated the Mass

The Most Reverend Arturo M. Bastes, SVD,D.D. Bishop of Sorsogon celebrated the 3:00 P.M. Tagalog Mass at Our Lady of Pompei on March 1. The members of the Team Ministry of the Chapel of San Lorenzo – Fr. Nil Villavisa, Fr. Romy Hontiveros, Fr. Mike Lagrimas and Msgr. Romy Montero were the concelebrants. He also celebrated the 12:30 Mass at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel.

Bishop Bastes is the chairman of the Episcopal Commission of Biblical Apostolate of the Philippines and the president of the Philippine Bible Society. As chairman of the ECBA, his mission is to educate the Filipino Catholics about Jesus by giving them the Holy Bible to read. He appealed for help to be able to provide the Holy Bible to 5 million Catholics in the Philippines. While in New York, he met with the Filipino clergy and the different members of the American Bible Society. He was invited by the American Bible Society, the counterpart of the Philippine Bible Society in the US.

SAN LORENZO RUIZ SCALABRINI CENTER

168-41 84th Avenue Jamaica Hills, NY 11432

Mass Schedule:
• First Tuesday and First Friday of the month
• Special Intention Masses by appointment
• Every 25th day of the month - Prayer Service and Mass in honor of Santo Nino, Our Lady of Fatima and the Lord of Pardon.

Lenten Activities
• Stations of the Cross every Friday at 7:30 P.M.
• Poon Hesus Nazareno Friday Prayer Service
• PABASA NG PASYON

1. April 3 and 4 - sponsored by the FPM Pompei Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village Hermano/Hermana Mayores. Non-stop from Friday 8:00 P.M. to Saturday 2:00 P.M. Blessing of the Palms for the Palm Sunday anticipated Mass.

2. April 6 to 10 sponsored by the San Lorenzo Devotional Group – Jamaica Estate. Daily 7:30 P.M. to Midnight on Holy Monday to Good Friday.

Prayer Service
• Tuesday - San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, Our Lady of Manaoag and Blessed John B. Scalabrini.
• Friday – Poon Hesus Nazareno
• First Tuesday - Scalabrini Lay Movement (SLM) Formation Seminar conducted by Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs.

The Feast of Our Lady of Manaoag

• Save the Date: May 3, Sunday 3:00 P.M. SLRAA Devotional Group will hold the annual feast day in honor of the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary – Our Lady of Manaoag. This year’s Hermana mayores are Lita Solis and Celeste Gomez. It will be held at the Immaculate Conception church in Jamaica, Queens.

• April 24 to May 2 Novena Mass daily at the SLRAA Center at 7:30 P.M in preparation for the May Feast day of Our Lady of Manaoag. Please send your request for prayers and Mass Intention to be included in your preferred date.

SLRAA Project Thailand

• The mission of spreading the Word far and wide, as commanded by our Lord, Jesus, through the help and intercession of San Lorenzo Ruiz and His Companion Martyrs will now become a reality. Nick Libramonte, National Director of SLRAA and Casto Changho, the Director of the SLRAA Foreign Mission will attend the blessing of the Church of San Lorenzo Ruiz and Companion Martyrs in Muhaki, Mae Hong Son Thailand. Bishop Joseph Sangval of Chiang Mai Diocese will officiate the dedication of the church and the celebration of the First Mass.

SLRAA Parapol

• The incoming 2009 Hermano and Hermana Mayores, Mr. & Mrs. Raul and Rose Calicdan initiated the SLRAA Fiesta Raffle to raise funds for the upkeep of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center and to support the programs and activities of SLRAA. $ 2 per ticket or $10 / per book of 6 tickets. Prizes - $1,000 1st prize; $500 2nd prize and $ 250 3rd prize. The raffle drawing will be held during the 27th annual San Lorenzo Ruiz Ruiz Fiesta on September 27

Scalabrini Lay Movement NY Assembly

• On March 6 – 8. the SLRAA will join the SLM Representatives from Canada – Montreal & Toronto, Columbia, Venezuela, Haiti, Rhode Island, New York – Brooklyn, Staten Island for a three days assembly at St. Charles Mission Center in Staten Island. Nick, Ed, Cely and Eleonor will represent the SLRAA to the assembly.

CHAPEL OF SAN LORENZO RUIZ

378 Broome Street New York, NY 10013

Schedule of Activities

MASS
Sunday :12:30 P.M.
Saturday : 6:30 P.M.
Wednesday: 6:30 P.M. Mother of Perpetual Help Novena Mass

• Lenten Recollection
“Pagbabago at Paglilingkod: Tawag sa Bawat Pilipino”
March 7, 2009 Saturday 1:00 – 7:00 P.M. to be conducted by Fr. Mike Lagrimas

• The Most Reverend Arturo M. Bastes, SVD, D.D. the Bishop of Sorsogon celebrated the Mass on March 1 at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel. Bishop Bastes is the Chairman, Episcopal Commission on the Biblical Apostolate of the Philippines, President of the Philippine Bible Society. His visit in New York was sponsored by the American Bible Society.

• On Ash Wednesday, 12:30 P.M. and 6:30 P.M. Mass with the imposition of the ashes was held at the Chapel. Fr. Romy Hontiveros officiated the 12:30 P.M. Mass.

• We invite you to contact the Team Ministry Service for Sunday and Weekday Mass intentions you want to offer for your loved ones, friends, families as well as the spiritual programs, and activities that you would like to be held at the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz.

SUNDAY 12:30 pm - Priests of the Team Ministry will alternate in celebrating the Eucharist Devotional prayers and confession before the Mass

WEEKDAY MASSES - can be scheduled upon request. Priests of the Team Ministry may be contacted on their assigned days. Devotional prayers and confession before the Mass

Feb 2009

FPM Schedule of Activities for the Month of February

6 Friday 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour
7 Saturday 6:00 PM Cenacle & Rehearsal Installation of Lectors
8 Sunday 3:00 PM Installation of the Lectors
15 Sunday 3:00 PM Valentines Day
15 & 16 Monday Overnight FPM Planning Session II – New Jersey
21 Saturday 5:30 PM FPM Planning Session III – NY
22 Sunday 3:00 PM SGSK Thanksgiving Party
Monthly Birthday celebrations
6:00 PM Finance Committee Meeting – Sayawan sa Village
25 Wednesday 6:30 PM Ash Wednesday

LAKSAMBAYAN – Planning and Development

A meeting is scheduled on February 15 and 16 for the long delayed planning and development to improve programs of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei in order to better serve the Filipino community. The meeting is open to all. For more information please contact the FPM Office 212 727 0214

SGSK Thanksgiving Party

DATE: FEBRUARY 22, SUNDAY
TIME: 5:00PM TO 10:00 PM PLACE: OUR LADY OF POMPEI CHURCH 25 CARMINE ST. CORNER BLEECKER NEW YORK, NY 10014

THIS PARTY IS TO ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR PRECIOUS SACRIFICES FOR THE LAST DECEMBER 6 SIMBANG GABI SA KATEDRAL.

PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE WITH YOUR RESPECTIVE CHAIRPERSONS, CONTACTS OR COORDINATORS. ENTRANCE IS FREE - JUST ENJOY THE FRIENDSHIP, THE FOOD, THE MUSIC AND THE DANCING.

The Eucharistic Seminar

After a series of seminars on the Eucharist and Liturgy of the Word conducted by Fr. Mike Lagrimas for the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei, the new Lectors, Collectors, Servers, choir will be installed in a ceremony to be held on February 8 during the 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino.

We are all grateful to Fr. Mike Lagrimas who gave his time to conduct the Seminar for us. It is not just reading but as Minister of the Word you have the responsibility as God’s human instrument to communicate to the people the word of God. It was a great learning experience for everybody who attended. The newly trained lectors have a chance to read on Sunday’s Misang Pilipino at Our Lady of Pompei church.

The formation and training is continues. If you are willing, available and able you are welcome to serve. A Bible Study and lecture which is open to all who are interested will be conducted by Fr. Mike Lagrimas twice a month. (Please see the FPM Schedule of Activities.)

Liturgy of the Word Ministry: Sally Alonso, Lenida Balce, Remy Blanco, Ernie Bugarin, Marilou Bugarin, Marilyn Castillo, Maxima Chavez, Nelia Cloma, Glenda Dizon, Susan Gamallo, Gigi Gonzales, Nancy Hombrebueno, Helen Macatulad, Cely Medrano, Mercy Mosley, Florence Noebel, Josie Olalo, Ed Pascual, Victoria “Bicbic” Rivera, Glenda Sakdalan, Freddie Salvador, Annie Swanson, Dayday Unarosa, Bobby Villanueva, Nelia Villanueva.

Renewal - Eucharistic Ministers: Bobby Villanueva, Nelia Villanueva, Ed Pascual, Cely Medrano

Collectors: Gody Olaso, Ben Dizon, Henry Medrano, Danny Maligaya, Norma de Jesus

Altar Servers: Kevin Villanueva, Adam Rodriguez, Jeremy Salvador

Youth: Kristianne Castillo, Samantha Lagura, Justine Villanueva, Ashley Laurencio, Katherine Laurencio, Mark Castillo

OLPompei Filipino Choir: Annie Swanson, Susan Gamallo, Malou Bugarin, Gigi Gonzales, Dayday Unarosa, Nancy Hombrebueno, Sally Alonso, Maxie Chavez, Nelia Cloma, Marilyn Castillo, Nelia Villanueva, Lenny Balce, Victoria “Bicbic” Rivera, Cely Medrano. Ernie Bugarin, Rey Gonzales, Freddie Salvador, Ben Dizon, Gody Olaso, Bobby Villanueva, Henry Medrano.

San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center, Jamaica Hills, Queens SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

Prayer Service every Tuesday to San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, Our Lady of Manaoag and Blessed John B. Scalabrini. The Poon Hesus Nazareno prayer service is held every Friday.

Mass is scheduled every First Tuesday and First Friday of the month. Every 25th day of the month is Prayer Service and Mass in honor of Santo Nino, Our Lady of Fatima and the Lord of Pardon.

Every First Tuesday, Monthly Scalabrini Lay Movement (SLM) Formation Seminar conducted by Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs.

March 5 – 7 Scalabrinian Lay Movement Assembly of Delegates to be held at Staten Island. The San Lorenzo Ruiz – Jamaica group will join the SLM Representatives from Canada – Montreal & Toronto, Columbia, Venezuela, Haiti, Rhode Island, New York – Brooklyn, Staten Island for a three days assembly at St. Charles Mission Center in Staten Island.

Pabasa ng Pasyon April 3 & 4 sponsored by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei.. April 6 - 10 daily Pabasa hosted by the San Lorenzo Devotional Group – Jamaica Estates.

April 18 – Thailand: Blessing and dedication of the Church of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila and Companion Martyrs in Muhahki village under the Chiang Mai Diocese. Bishop Joseph Sangval officiate the dedication of the church and the celebration of the Mass.

January Birthday Celebrators

Happy Birthday to all the January Birthday celebrators led by Msgr. Romy Montero, Fr. Lito Cabatuan, Fr. Romy Hontiveros, Fr. Warlito Namo, Fr. Ruben Camayo, Eliza Lapitan, Dayday Unarosa, Rosie Rodico, Marilou Bugarin, Jesse Montero, Nick & Edith Libramonte, Manny Pascual, Josie Olalo, Letty Dolan, Bobby Villanueva, Rochelle Pascual, Jourjine Pascual, Oscar de la Isla, Carmela Sikorski, Armando Caringal, Tess Reyes, Violeta Sangalang. May all your birthday wishes come true. We may all differ in the way we celebrate our birthdays, but it is important to give thanks to the Lord for the Gift of Life that we have received. Happy Birthday to all!

Our special thanks for the prayers, the gifts and to those who prepared and shared the food during the birthday celebration. Marami Pong Salamat!

The Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz

78 Broome Street New York, NY 10013

On Sunday, February 1, the Chancellor of the Archdiocese of New York Msgr. William Belford read the mandate signed by Bishop Dennis Sullivan, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of New York to officially announce the appointment of Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD as the moderator of the Team Ministry who will coordinate the affairs of the Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz and the temporary director of the Filipino Apostolate in the Archdiocese of New York. The new mandate is in addition to his job as Pastoral Vicar of the Cathedral of St. Patrick and Judge, Metropolitan Tribunal of Archdiocese of New York. The Team Ministry were introduced by Chancellor Belford – Msgr. Romy Montero, Our Lady of Pompei Church, Fr. Mike Lagrimas, St. Teresa Church, and Fr. Romy Hontiveros, Our Lady of Victory Church; Fr. Nil Villavisa, St. Agnes Church.

Fr. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD announced in the beginning of the Mass that the chapel is open not only for the Filipinos but also welcome the Hispanic, Chinese and Italian parishioners in the area.

The chapel was overflowing with people, some were standing outside to attend the concelebrated Mass of Unity. There were mixed emotion among the attendees. Some were wary about the changes. Others were happy to be a part of the transition. But the most important of all was that many people came to uphold the spirit of pagkakaisa for the good of the Filipino community in New York.

The Honorable Hilario Davide, Ambassador to the U.N. and Consul General Cecile Rebong were present and participated in the Offertory procession. Deputy Consul General Millie Thomeczek participated in the reading of the petition. The lectors were Ellen Torres and Victoria Baxa. Other readers of the petition were Linda Bolano, Jose Ramos, Reynor Santiago, Cely Medrano, Arch. Zonny Lerum, Lin Ruiz, Ferdinand Suba, Esq., Virgie Ricablanca, and Cecile Dumdum. The participants in the Offertory were Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD, Cora Rivera, Mina de Jesus, Aida Gamolo, Marie Pierre Santos, Kielan Santos, Dr. Angelina Ricafrente, Lenore Lim. The Chapel Youth Choir provided the music.

Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD gave a rousing homily, giving his vision for the chapel. He emphasized that the pastoral team assignment is temporary until the result of the evaluation of the chapel. However, if the San Lorenzo Ruiz community become vibrant, the Archdiocese of New York is open for a possibility of a bigger church for the Filipino community.

It is the desire of the Team Ministry at the moment to keep a low profile in the activities, no hard and aggressive fund raising; to be sensitive to the spiritual needs of the faithful; to keep an open mind to any possibilities. We do not know what the future holds but the success of the Team Ministry and for the Chapel to remain open will depend upon the support of all of us.

CHAPEL OF SAN LORENZO RUIZ
WHY FILIPINO MIGRANTS ARE PAYING CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE FOREBODING CLOSURE

By: Rev. Dr. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD, Moderator/Temp. Director of the Filipino Apostolate

Why should busy workers care?

Since the evaluation proscribed by the Archbishop of New York for the San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel was accepted by a team of five Filipino priests, subsequent conduct in the Chapel can become the basis for either discontinuing the operations, or expanding the mission.

Either way. The burden of proof falls on the communal consciousness of a people committed to their Culture and Faith. I’d say: “If you’re really serious in saving the Chapel, don’t abandon the boat.”

Passing the evaluation, pastoral or financial, rests on proving the existence of ‘retainers’. That could be a community, a group of people, or a group of communities; it is hardly even possible for a negligible bunch to constitute a gang.

The second step is to show that the faithful have achieved a “sustainable pattern of socio-religious activity” – any list of advocacies and worship, ranging from justice and peace issues to popular devotions. For team ministers success means the Chapel gets up to full-to-over-flowing capacity attendance; the attendees are excited about looking after one another’s needs.

Being able to pay for the heat and dues cannot be a gauge of a passing mark. It is only when the regular fellowships convert participants into a Praying, Caring and Sharing People of God.

Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 11:38 AM

To All:

Let us show our support as one community.

The concelebrated Mass: Sunday 12:30 P.M. February
Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz
78 Broome St. (between Mulberry and Mott Streets)
New York, NY 10013.

Direction: Subway to Downtown
Take the No. 6 Train to Spring Street. Walk eastward to
Mulberry; walk southward for 2 blocks to Broome Street.
Make a left, walk up to the middle of the block, and the
chapel will be on your left side.

Looking forward to see You All,

Cely

January 2009

Happy New Year to All! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. As we welcome the year 2009, we thank the Lord for the year that has gone by despite the unstable economy. On a personal note, we must all be grateful for what we have - family, friends, good health, good job. Above all, we thank the Lord for what we are today and we rely on HIM for what tomorrow will bring - New year, new beginning, and new hope. Let us be optimistic that the New Year will bring more exciting possibilities and new opportunities for all of us in 2009.

2008 was a successful year filled with memorable events for the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei church. Last October, the Filipino Pastoral Ministry celebrated a milestone – for 20 years as the welcoming church for Filipino migrants under the auspices of the Scalarinian Fathers. We also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the start of the devotion to Mother of Perpetual Help at Our Lady of Pompei on June 26. The Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York base at Pompei also celebrated its 25th anniversary of propagating the devotion to Santo Nino in New York. Overall the Filipino Pastoral Ministry had a fruitful year in fulfilling the vision and mission of the ministry.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry started the New Year with the successful celebration of the Fiesta of Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 4, 2009. It was the 10th annual celebration held at Our Lady of Pompei in New York. The FPM will continue the same program and will have more exciting activities in 2009

POONG HESUS NAZARENO IN NEW YORK

Photos by Henry Medrano

Hermano & Hermana Mayor Drs. Jorge & Helen Aguila-Amador receiving the medals of the PoonHesus Nazareno from Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD spiritual director of the SLRAA. assisted by Msgr Romy Montero, master of ceremonies of the feast day celebration.
On Sunday, January 4, 2009, the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei church celebrated the 10th annual Fiesta celebration in honor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village. The feast day celebration was the culmination of the Novena Masses held for nine consecutive Fridays in honor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno.

The Makinano Family led by Jun and Amelia spearheaded the successful celebration. We are grateful to them for continuing the Poon Hesus Nazareno tradition in New York.

To continue the tradition, the Sunday’s celebration started with the transfer ceremony of the Hermandad from the 2008 Hermano & Hermana Mayor Bobby and Nelia Villanueva to the 2009 Hermano and Hermana Mayor Jun and Amelia Makinano. With the transfer of the image of the Poon Hesus Nazareno, comes with the turn over of the responsibility to keep and care for the image during their term as the new Hermano and Hermana mayor.

After the transfer ceremony, the devotees carried the big image of Poon Hesus Nazareno in the carosa decked with flowers during the procession. The hermanos and hermanas mayores of the Poon Hesus Nazareno led the congregation with the concelebrating priests in the procession.

Msgr. Romulo Montero presided the concelebrated Mass. The concelebrants were Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD, Msgr. Bayani Valenzuela, Fr. Romy Hontiveros, Fr. Francis Ong, Fr. Joy Tentativa, Fr. Joselito Cabatuan, Fr. Anthony Legaspi, Fr. Mike Lagrimas was the homilist. Bro. Michael LaMantia was the master of ceremonies of the celebration.

The lectors were: El-Al Makinano-First Reading, Xana Makinano - Responsorial Psalm, Amelia Makinano for the Second Reading. Tess Vasquez led the prayers of the faithful in Tagalog.

The Mass was enhanced by the Mass music provided by Bobby Villanueva and the engaging voices of the newly formed Our Lady of Pompei Filipino Choir with Sally Alonso, conducting the choir.

After the Mass, all the guests were treated to a sumptuous Filipino food and special delicacies and also some ballroom and line dancing at the Pompei Fr. Demo Hall.

Thank you for all your support through the years for a successful celebration.

How the Poon Hesus Nazareno Devotion started in New York:

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei Church launched the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village the popular devotion for all transplanted devotees of the Hesus Nazareno in Quiapo to usher in the new millennium. The late Fr. Bernabe B. Sison, the founding director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry was optimistic then that the new devotion will fill the void of our longing to pay homage to the Black Nazarene. On January 9, 2000, the feast day of Poon Hesus Nazareno was celebrated for the first time in New York. The image of the Poon Hesus Nazareno was blessed and enshrined at Our Lady of Pompei Church, New York where the Filipino Pastoral Ministry is based.

The devotion to the Poon Hesus Nazareno gained support and dedication among the Filipinos that it became a permanent fixture in the village. What started as a vision like the many devotions and programs started by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry has indeed become a reality. The task was enormous in the beginning and was met with a lot of challenges. It has come a long way since then as we celebrated the 10th annual feast day to Poon Hesus Nazareno last Sunday. The annual feast day celebration at Pompei is celebrated every first Sunday of January.

On December 8, 2006 the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) launched the devotion of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Jamaica. The life size image of the Black Nazarene was blessed and enshrined at the new chapel of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center at 168-41 84th Ave. in Jamaica Hills NY 11432, the home base of the SLRAA. A Friday prayer service is held regularly at the Center. They hold a separate feast day celebration in honor of the Poon on January 9, the same day celebrated in the Philippines. The first feast day in Jamaica was held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center on January 9, 2007. To accommodate more devotees, the 2008 feast day celebration was moved to a bigger venue. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center still hold the Novena Mass for nine days prior to the feast day that starts on December 31 to January 8.

This year is the third annual feast day celebration of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Jamaica hosted by the SLRAA and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Chapter. It will be held at the Holy Family Church in Queens. Drs. Jorge and Helen Aguila-Amador are the continuing Hermano and Hermana Mayor for 2008 and 2009.

The devotion to Poon Hesus Nazareno in Jamaica is the extension of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village at Pompei where the devotees could pay homage to the Black Nazarene. Filipino Clergy of New York Meeting On Sunday January 4, the Filipino priests from the different parishes in New York attended the post-Christmas party/meeting at Our Lady of Pompei church hosted by Msgr. Romy Montero. Some of the attendees concelebrated in the Mass for Poon Hesus Nazareno feast day. The concelebrants were Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD, Msgr. Bayani Valenzuela, Fr. Romy Hontiveros, Fr. Francis Ong, Fr. Joy Tentativa, Fr. Anthony Legaspi, Fr. Joselito Cabatuan, Fr. Mike Lagrimas. Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD also attended.

Eucharistic Seminar Part 2

Fr. Mike Lagrimas will conduct Part 2 of the Eucharistic Seminar on January 17, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. to be held at the Our Lady of Pompei church. It will be the continuation of the Eucharist seminar held last November. The seminar is open to all interested to be lectors, servers and lay ministers. Please let us know in advance if you will attend especially to those who attended the Part 1 seminar last November. For those who are interested but did not attend the Part I Seminar, please let us know also so that we could schedule it on a different date. Please e-mail to araceliam14@yahoo.com.

SAN LORENZO RUIZ SCALABRINI CENTER

San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center celebrated its 5th anniversary with a Mass of Thanksgiving on December 8, 2008. Msgr. Oscar Aquino presided the Mass. Msgr. Romy Montero, Fr. Tony Mahinay and Fr. Mike Lagrimas were the concelebrants. A reception followed at the Fr. Bobby Sison Hall after the Mass.

On December 16, the board of directors of the SLRAA met with Fr. Matthew Didone, the new Provincial Superior of the Scalabrinian Fathers for the renewal of the lease agreement. It has been five years since the Scalabrinian Fathers allowed the SLRAA through the agreement with the late Fr. Bobby Sison to use the St. Charles House of Studies now transformed into the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center. Fr. Didone approved the renewal of the lease for another five years. He was satisfied with the improvements done to the building and was impressed with the programs and activities that invigorated the community.

“Operation Bigay Bigas” fund raising was re-launched on December 23 during the Christmas party at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center. The “Rice for the Poor” is part of the humanitarian project of SLRAA under the Scalabrinian Lay Movement program to help our poor kababayans in the Philippines. The project was started by Nick Libramonte as a personal mission in 2006. SLRAA adopted the program in 2007 with the first mission in Catbalogan, Samar.

San Lorenzo Ruiz in Thailand:

San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, (SLRAA) received the good news from Thailand that the construction of the church to be named San Lorenzo Ruiz Church in Muhahki under the Chiang Mai Diocese has started. With the building of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Church, the SLRAA is going to help in bringing the Good News in Chiang Mai Diocese. It is also a great opportunity to honor Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and also to be known among Thai people. The church construction is estimated to be completed by the end of March 2009. Bishop Joseph Sangval scheduled the blessing of the church on April 19, 2009. The Bishop will officiate the first Mass.

The building of the church is one of the projects of the SLRAA- Foreign Mission initiated by Casto Changho, Director, SLRAA-Foreign Mission. The church will be used for:

1. A place of worship with space to hold more than 50 people. Currently, they pack the village leader's house for services.
2. Center for community gatherings and other community function.
3. Village Shelter during typhoons since the village houses are mostly made of bamboo and leaves
4. Welcoming center for visiting village leaders from other tribes.
5. As showcase for the Catholic church to the mountain hill tribes and also to propagate the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz.
6. Learning center for educating the village people about Christianity.
December 2008
By AAMedrano

Christmas Triduum and the Simbang Gabi

November 30 was the first day of Advent.  We started the first day of the Christmas Triduum in preparation for the birthday of the Baby Jesus at Our Lady of Pompei during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass.   Fr. Mike Lagrimas blessed the Advent Candles and led the prayers.  Maxie Chavez lighted the first advent candle that symbolized Hope.  Sally Alonso led the song “Halina Hesus” at the conclusion of the lighting ceremony.

The Triduum Mass  will continue every  Sunday  in  December prior to Christmas Day. Please come and join the Mass and Prayers every Sunday culminating on December 21 for the FPM Christmas party.

At the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamiaca, the nine days Simbang Gabi will start on December 15 at 7:30 P.M. and every night thereafter until December 23.

May you all have a Blessed Christmas as we all look forward to a Happy, Healthy, Peaceful and Prosperous New Year!

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK)
As of press time,  the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral, Inc (SGSK) steering committee is gearing up for the “Pasko Noon at Ngayon”  Simbang Gabi celebration on Saturday December 6, 6:30 P.M.at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in New York City.  
The Most Reverend Antonieto Cabahug, Bishop of Surigao, Philippines is the principal celebrant of the Mass.  There will  be over  50  concelebrating priests and two deacons confirmed to attend.
Parol is this year’s theme of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral. The Parade of Parols  in different colors, shapes and sizes will precede the Mass celebration.

A cultural presentation is immediately following the Mass.  An evening featuring great songs of Christmas performed by great artist and singers – Fatima Soriano (blind singer & healer) Alexis Perlas, Ronald Seludo and the Bayanihan Club of Union Singers, Erwin Argonza Music director.  A Mariachi Band will also perform.

In the morning of December 6, there will be an all day Rosary from 7:00 A.M. in front of the Exposed Blessed Sacrament in the Cathedral High School Gym until 4:00 P.M. culminating with the procession of the devotees to St. Patricks Cathedral for the Simbang Gabi Eucharistic celebration. The procession route will start from 56th Street First Avenue ending at 51st Fifth Ave at St. Patricks Cathedral.

Founder’s Day of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry

Every year the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei hold aThanksgiving Memorial Mass for > Fr. Bobby B. Sison, the FPM Founding Director. The Mass was held on Sunday, November 23 at Our Lady of Pompei church celebrated by Msgr. Romy Montero as the presider and Fr. Mike Lagrimas as the homilist. A reception followed after the Mass at the Fr. Demo Hall. Many attended the Mass to pay tribute to our founder and enjoyed the food, the songs and the dancing after the Mass. We are grateful because almost everyone brought something to share for the potluck reception.

The 20th anniversary celebration of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry was also a lasting tribute to Fr. Bobby’s pioneering effort to establish a welcoming church for the Filipinos. What started as a vision has indeed become a reality. The seed which he planted years ago has become a large and fruitful tree. And we are now enjoying the fruits of his labor twenty years later.

The FPM continues to serve the Filipino community through its programs  and activities  under the leadership of Fr. Romy Montero, the FPM director and with the help of Fr. Mike Lagrimas who voluntary gave his time to assist us in the programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village and in Jamaica

Our Lady of Pompei will celebrate the 10th annual Feast Day celebration in honor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 4, 2009.  Mr. Jun Makinano is the incoming Hermano Mayor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village celebration.

In preparation for the feast day, the nine Friday Novena Mass is held at Our Lady of Pompei that started on November 7 and every Friday thereafter until January 2, 2009. There are different sponsors  of the Novena Mass every Friday and a salo-salo is prepared after the Mass.

At the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamaica Queens, the nine days Novena Mass in preparation for the feast day of Poon Hesus Nazareno will start on  Monday December 31 and every day until January 8 at 7:30 P.M. The feast day celebration will be held on January 9 at the Holy Family Church in Queens.

Thanksgiving Day Mass and Celebration

Msgr. Romy Montero and the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) of Our Lady of Pompei hosted the Annual Thanksgiving Vigil Mass and Dinner on Wednesday,  November 26.  After the Novena Mass to Mother of Perpetual Help, the devotees were invited to the pot luck Thanksgiving dinner. The dinner was prepared by the friends and members of the FPM family as a prelude to the Thursday Thanksgiving day.  Different Filipino food and the traditional Roast turkey were served. It was a big turn out this year. We were glad that despite the crowded FPM office, everybody enjoyed an evening of food, drinks and  fun stories to share. We thank you all for joining us as we continue this FPM annual sharing. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

 

Feast day of St. Andrew, the Apostle
The Samahang San Andres Apostol (SSAA) led by this year’s president, Maxie Chavez hosted the feast day celebration in honor of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Norzagaray Bulacan at Our Lady of Pompei Church on November 30, 2008. Msgr. Romy Montero, Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei was the main celebrant of the Thanksgiving Mass. The concelebrants were Fr. Mike Lagrimas, and Fr. Francis Ong, the homilist.  The lectors were the members of the Samahang San Andres Apostol.
A reception at the Pompei Fr. Demo hall followed after the Mass.  There were songs and dances performed by the young and the old members of the SSAA. Line dancing and ballroom dancing were also part of the program with the music provided by DJ - Bobby Villanueva.  They gave recognition for the “Parents of the Year” to three families; Awards for two members who finished in the 2008 NYC ING Marathon and the Founders award. They appealed for voluntary donations to their program of supporting 4 scholars to college in the Philippines.
Congratulations to  Ms. Maxie Chavez, the president and all the officers and members of the group for the successful celebration.

SGSK Family Bible Quiz

There were five family Bible Quiz contestants who vied for the top prize winner last December 5 in the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK) sponsored Family Bible Quiz.  The Manila Bible Quiz Team was led by Fr. Mike Garcia, Msgr. Gary Formoso, Bishop Antonieto Cabahug and  Ms. Emelita Go, the initiator of the Family Bible Quiz from the Philippines. They conducted the final hurdle for the contestants who attended the preliminary round on November 29.  The contestants were as follows: Bobby and Nelia, Justine and Kevin Villanueva, Wilfredo and Erma, Dana and Paolo Beyo, Zacarias and Betty and Kyle Taco, Ramon and Emelinda, Jesus and Jennifer Celebrados, Marcelino and Sofia, Patrick and Phoebe Lindo.

Congratulations to the Winners –  the Celebrados Family of St. Eugene Parish of  Yonkers, won the first prize. The second prize were the Beyo Family of Our Lady of Mercy, Jersey City and the third prize were the Taco family of the  Our Lady of Angels in the Bronx.

It was the first time that it was held in New York and hopefully it will generate enthusiasm to read the Bible. 

5th Anniversary of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamaica

The SLRAA will celebrate the fifth anniversary of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center on Monday December 8. A Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated at 7:30 P.M. to commemorate its 5th anniversary.  There will be the installation of the  candidates  for the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz during the Mass.  A reception  will follow at the Fr. Bobby Sison Hall.

Please come and visit the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center especially on Tuesdays for the 7:30 P.M. Novena to San Lorenzo Ruiz and for the  upcoming activities in December.  The SLRCenter is located at 168-41 84th Ave. Jamaica Hills, NY 11432.  For info of schedule of Novena and Mass please call (718)  206 1135.

Scalabrini Lay Movement Formation Seminar

Fr. Walter Tonelotto, c.s.  conducted the second of a series of the SLay Movement seminar at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamaica hosted by SLRAA on December 2.  The seminar is held every first Tuesday of the month after the Prayer service to San Lorenzo Ruiz and the Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini.  He talked about the Book of Ruth, an  interesting story about migration in the Bible.  The lecture is open to everybody.

Give Lulu’s Hope a Chance
LIVE 4 LULU, a benefit concert for Maria Lourdes R. Bucci as she battles Paraneoplastic syndrome was organized by her friends  led by Armel Martinez in the hope  of generating  awareness of her plight  and to  raise funds to support her rehabilitation.  The concert was held at Our Lady of Pompei Fr. Demo Hall on November 22 Saturday.  It was an evening of Live Retro and contemporary music featuring the SANCATERBA Band with the ISLAND MAGIC who took turns to entertain a good crowd. It was a fun night , and the musicians rocked!   

In Lulu’s case, she is only the 4th person in the world to be diagnosed with Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndrome associated with breast cancer.  As of now, after the  removal of her left breast, the cancer may be in remission but she still could not walk nor use her right arm and has had some loss of hearing.  These symptoms of  neuromuscular disorder, progressive numbness and weakness of her limbs are her main hurdles, especially painful spasms on her right arm.  Due to the rareness of this disease, her doctors cannot really say if she can fully recover or not.  She needs to continue her physical and occupational therapy but unfortunately, her insurance has a limit on how many treatments she can received per year and it has been fully exhausted.

If you want to help, please send your donations to: Maria Lourdes Bucci 427 Hopper Ave. Ridgewood, NJ 07450

November 2008
By: AA Medrano

FPM 20th Anniversary

Twenty years serving the Filipino migrants under the auspices of the Scalabrinian Fathers.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei celebrated its 20th anniversary with the Thanksgiving Mass and Reception on Sunday October 26. Msgr. Romy Montero, Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry was the main celebrant of the Mass. The concelebrants were Fr. John Massari, cs, Pastor, Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs representing the Scalabrinian Fathers, Fr. Mike Lagrimas and the homilist was Fr. Leo Capeding from New Orleans.

The celebration started with the procession of the banners representing the different programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry followed by the images of the different devotions initiated at Pompei. The coordinators and hermano mayores of the different groups participated in the procession. The family of Nanding and Marilyn Castillo and Ramon and Chit Laurencio, the long time members of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry led the procession.

The 20th anniversary of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry (FPM) and the Laksambayan night was sponsored by the Friends, volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and the October birthday celebrants We are grateful to all of you who helped and supported the FPM to reach this milestone especially to the Scalabrinian Fathers, Fr. John Massari, cs, Pastor of Our Lady of Pompe, Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs – Local Superior, Fr. Matthew Didone, cs - Provincial Superior, Fr. Joseph Fugolo, cs. Archbishop Jose S. Palma, D.D., SthD of Palo Leyte, Most Rev. Isabelo C.Abarquez, D.D. - Bishop of Calbayog, The Sison Family, Nick Libramonte – SLRAA, Bobby Villanueva & Family, and Fr. Mike Lagrimas.

The Filipino apostolate at Pompei started when the late Fr. Bobby Sison, the Founding Director was transferred to Manhattan from Long Island in the summer of 1987 to work for the Scalabrinian Fathers on their program for the migrants. With the approval and support of the then Provincial Superior, Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, c.s., Fr. Bobby continued his program and activities for the Filipinos that he started in Long Island when he moved to Pompei Church. One year later, he launched the Filipino Pastoral Ministry on October 26, 1988 with the first Mother of Perpetual Help Novena and Mass in New York. He was the FPM director until his untimely death in November 20, 2003. The seed which he planted has by now become a large and fruitful tree. And now we are enjoying the fruits of his labor twenty years later. What started as a vision has indeed become a reality.

The FPM continues to serve the Filipino community through its programs and activities under the leadership of Fr. Romy Montero, the FPM director and with the help of Fr. Mike Lagrimas who voluntary gave his time and service to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

2008 Laksambayan Awardee

Congratulations to Bro. Michael LaMantia, cs. who was awarded the Laksambayan Award for his loyalty and dedication to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to the Filipinos. His invaluable support to all the activities and programs of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry at Pompei for 20 years endear him to the Filipinos. Bro. Michael is member of the Missionaries of St. Charles congregation and Pompei church has been his home for over 35 years. He is Italian-American but will always be a part of the FPM family.

The Laksambayan Award(Lakas ng Sumasambang Sambayanan) is awarded by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei to Filipinos/ Americans who made outstanding contribution for the welfare and spiritual development of the Filipino community through voluntary work.

FPM Founders Day

A Mass of Remembrance and Thanksgiving will be offered on Sunday November 23 during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass at Our Lady of Pompei Church to commemorate the 5th death anniversary of Fr. Bobby b. Sison, Founding Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

The EUCHARIST Seminar

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei invites you to attend the Seminar about the Eucharist. Fr. Mike Lagrimas, associate pastor of St. Teresa Church will conduct the seminar on November 15, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. at Our Lady of Pompei Conference Room. If you would like to participate, please call the Filipino Pastoral Ministry office 212 727 0214 for reservation.

Thanksgiving Vigil Mass

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei celebrates the pre-thanksgiving day celebration with the Novena to Our Mother of Perpetual Help and Thanksgiving Vigil Mass on November 26 Wednesday, 6:30 P.M. Potluck dinner will follow after the Mass. For more info, please call the office of the FPM 212 727 0214.

9 Fridays Novena Mass to Poon Hesus Nazareno

Starting on Friday November 7 and every Friday thereafter at 6:30 P.M., there will be novena Mass at Our Lady of Pompei church in preparation for the feast day celebration of the Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 4, 2009.

Please come and join us every Friday at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan and on the feast day. Mr. Jun Makinano is the incoming Hermano Mayor. For more info: call the FPM office, Msgr. Romy Montero 212 727 0214 or Ed Pascual.

Feast day of San Andres Apostol

The Samahang San Andres Apostol of Norzagaray, Bulacan invites you to the feast day celebration honoring their patron saint on November 30 Sunday at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. The Thanksgiving Mass will start at 3:00 PM with the reception to follow at the Fr. Demo Hall of Our Lady of Pompei.

Please come and bring your friends. For more info, please contact the president, Maxie Chavez 914 874 7762, Josie Dizon 718 343 6410, Marisa Fojas 917 837 4195. Semi-formal attire required.

San Lorenzo Ruiz Center 5th Anniversary

The San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica, Queens will celebrate its 5th anniversary with a Mass of Thanksgiving on December 8, 2008 at 7:30 P.M. The celebration will include the installation of candidates for the Knight of San Lorenzo Ruiz. Please come and join us for this event.

SLM Seminar on Migration

Fr. Walter Tonelotto, cs will conduct a formation seminar for members of the Scalabrinian Lay Movement starting on November 4, the feast day memorial of St. Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of the Scalabrinian Fathers. Fr. Walter will talk about migration. The seminar will continue every first Tuesday of the month. Mass and Prayer Service to San Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed John B. Scalabrini at 7:30 PM will precede the seminar. Those who are interested to attend, please come to the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini Center in Jamaica every Tuesday. Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGSK) Update Simbang Gabi sa Katedral, Inc (SGSK) steering committee is gearing up for the “Pasko Noon at Ngayon” Simbang Gabi celebration on Saturday December 6, 6:30 P.M.at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in New York City. Tickets are not required to attend however, some seats are reserved for SGSK donors and sponsors. This year’s theme is the “Parol”. Parish groups, social and religious organization are encourage to join the Parade of Parol preceding the Mass. Please contact the SGSK Youth Committee to register your Parol and the Parol bearer. A cultural presentation is immediately following the Mass. An evening featuring great songs of Christmas performed by great artist and singers – Fatima Soriano (blind singer & healer) Alexis Perlas, Ronald Seludo and the Bayanihan Club of Union Singers, Erwin Argonza Music director. A Mariachi Band will also perform. 2000 Hail Mary’s & The Procession All day rosary on Saturday, December 6 from 7:00 AM. in front of the exposed Blessed Sacrament in the Cathedral High School Gym culminating with the procession of the Marian devotees and “Our Lady of Manhattan” joining the Simbang Gabi celebration at Patricks Cathedral. Procession will start from the Cathedral High School at 1011 First Ave. and 56 St. to 5th Ave and 50th Street. Assembly time is 4:30 P.M. For out- of- town participants, please register your group for procession assembly or bus parking location with Aida Gamolo, coordinator of the Marian procession (917) 816 0530 or e-mail to alg@bestweb.net or the SGSK Steering Committee. SGSK Halloween Party The SGSK held a successful SGSK Halloween Costume Party fund raising last Friday October 31 at the St. John Nepomucene Church Hall at 411. E. 66th street and 1st Ave, NY 10065. The parade of outrageous and fascinating costumes from Zorro, Angels mingled with the witches, pirates, the “Madre Mia”, to superman was the highlight of the celebration. Prizes were given to the best costume won by Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD as Zorro, best ethnic costume in Chinese outfit won by Msgr. Oscar Aquino. The kids also won special prizes. There were door prizes and raffle prizes for the lucky winners. There were lots of food. After the party everybody were asked to take home something. BCV provided the lively music. Thank you to Bobby Villanueva and his assistants Gody & Henry for the music. Congratulations to the SGSK Adhoc-Finance committee led by Cora Rivera who organized this successful event. SGSK Social Outreach The SGSK Inc. Social Outreach Program donated $1,500 to accomplish the charitable component of helping our kababayans who need assistance. In a meeting at the Philippine Consulate on October 16, Dr. Lestrino Baquiran representing PEACE (Philippine Economic and Cultural Endowment Foundation) received the check donation from Fr. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD the Chairman of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral, Inc. (SGSK) to support their artesian well program in the Philippines. A barrio in Masbate will be the beneficiary of the artesian well donated by SGSK, Inc. SGSK Family Bible Quiz The Family Bible Quiz is open to families in the Tri-State Area. There are 8 family contestants who signed up. The elimination round is to be held on November 29 at the Meeting room of the Cathedral of St. Patrick. The championship round is on December 5 to be conducted by the Bible Quiz Manila group. Top prize is a free pilgrimage trip to Maine for a family of four. All the Bible Quiz family contestant will receive certificate of recognition as first time participants. The Bible Quiz will be an annual event to be hosted by SGSK. 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. October Birthday Celebrants Happy Birthday to all the Octoberians. Every year the October birthday celebrants always have the privilege to celebrate their birthday during the Filipino Pastoral Ministry Laksambayan Night. This year was special because of the the 20th Anniversary celebration of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. Leading the celebration - Gody Olaso who turned the Big “70”, Henry Medrano, Nancy Hombrebueno, Marilyn Castillo, Justine Villanueva, Joy Gumban, Mimi Rodriguez, Emma Membrere, Angelina Gumban, Cassandra Laurencio, Ricardo Menendez, Beth Gemina, Remy Paglinawan. They received a special birthday blessing from Fr. Romy Montero after the Mass. Happy Birthday to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to all the birthday celebrants. 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 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 08 Sat 6:00 PM Clergy Meeting hosted by the FPM volunteers & staff 15 Sat 7:00 -9PM Seminar – The Eucharist – Fr. Mike Lagrimas 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, The Apostle Sponsor: Samahang San Andres Apostol of Norsagaray Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass December 05 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour Novena/Mass Poon Hesus Nazareno 06 Sat 6:30 PM Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) St. Patricks Cathedral 07 Sun 3:00 PM Christmas Triduum 08 Mon Feast of the Immaculate Conception 5th Anniversary of San Lorenzo Ruiz Center 21 Sun 3:00 PM FPM Christmas Party 24 Wed 12:00MN Midnight Mass 25 Thu Christmas Day- Holy Day of Obligation 28 Sun 3:00 PM December Birthday Celebrations 31 Wed 12:00MN FPM New Year’s Eve Party * Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass . October 2008 By: AA Medrano FPM 20th Anniversary The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Twenty years serving the Filipino migrants under the auspices of the Scalabrinian Fathers. Preparations is under way for the Thanksgiving Mass and Reception on Sunday October 26. Every year we usually have Laksambayan Dinner Dance but this time we will do it differently. The Thanksgiving Mass will start at 3:00 P.M. and the Reception to follow at the Fr. Demo Hall. Please come and join us on this special celebration. Photos by Henry OCTOBER 5 : Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompei This Sunday was the feast of Our Lady of Rosary of Pompei, the patroness of the Parish. Fr. Rinaldo Vecchiato, cs a Scalabrini Father and former Pastor of Our Lady of Pompei Church in Montreal Canada will be the main celebrant of the Mass. The Solemn Mass started at 12:00 P.M. with the participation of the different ethnic groups that make up the Parish to honor Our Blessed Mother. The Italian, Brazilian and Filipino community Masses were cancelled and instead all the groups celebrated as one community for the Madonna di Pompei. The Rosary and the Supplica both in English and Italian were recited before the Mass. A Marian procession through the streets surrounding the church followed after the Mass. The lively Marian songs played by the band keep up the pace of the procession. The Benediction and the blessing with the relic of Blessed Bartolo Longo concluded the procession. San Lorenzo Ruiz Fiesta On September 28, there were simultaneous feast day celebrations in different churches and dioceses in the tri-state area to honor San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, the first Filipino saint. It is a testament that more Filipino-Americans now embrace the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz, our first Filipino saint. The movement initiated by the Blessed Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. to make Lorenzo Ruiz known after he was beatified and later after his canonization to propagate the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz has been successful. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) celebrated its 27th annual celebration of the Feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz at the Immaculate Conception church in Jamaica Queens. The Most Reverend Emilio Z. Marquez, DD, Bishop of Lucena City was the main celebrant with other priests concelebrating: Fr. Jed Sumampong, CP, Msgr. Oscar A. Aquino, JCD, Msgr. Romy Sosing, Fr. Gil Suaybaguio, Fr. Joey Francisco, Fr. Francis Ong, Fr. Ramon Saavedra, Fr. Eugene Solera, Fr. Lito Ebron, Fr. Mario Ramirez, and Fr. Mike Lagrimas, the master of ceremonies. A celebration was also held at St. Patricks Cathedral in Manhattan, and the Cathedral Basilica of Sacred Heart in Newark, New Jersey where the Most Reverend Jose S. Palma, DD, SthD, Archbishop of Palo, Leyte was the main celebrant. All the fiesta celebrations were well attended. Bangkok, Thailand For the first time, the feast day celebration in honor of San Lorenzo Ruiz was held in Bangkok at the Parish of Mary Help of Christians on September 28. Fr. Tamayo, Pastor, was the main celebrant and two Filipino priests concelebrated Fr. Agot, SOLT working in Ratchaburi,) and Fr. Pablo, a diocesan priest taking Master's in AIT). The historic event was attended by over 200 Filipinos, Thais and the Philippine Ambassador to Thailand was also present. The SLRAA- Foreign Mission initiated by Casto O. Changho paved the way for this historic event. In addition, a room named after San Lorenzo Ruiz will be reserved to become the meeting center for activities of the Filipino migrants in Bangkok. Queens, New York At the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica Queens, the celebration started with the procession led by the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz. Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Ealdama led the Rosary during the procession. In a symbolic gesture to commiserate with the vandalized statue of San Lorenzo Ruiz leaving only the feet attached to the pedestal, the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz wore sandals – instead of their shoes for the feast day celebration. The Most Rev. Emilio Z. Marquez, D.D., Bishop of Lucena, Quezon was the main celebrant of the Mass. He also officiated the installation of the 2008-2009 SLRAA Hermano and Hermana Mayor Mr. & Mrs. Albert and Ampy Medenilla before the start of the Mass. The outgoing SLRAA Hermano and Hermana Mayor Mr. & Mrs. Alex and Edna Dy assisted in the transfer of responsibility. Other participants in the Mass: Charles & Philip Medenilla, lectors, the Knights of San Lorenzo led the prayers of the faithful, Offertory – the SLRAA Past Hermano & Hermana Mayores offered flowers, Drs. Jorge & Helen Amador offered fruits and Mr. & Mrs. Albert and Ampy Medenilla offered the wine and ciborium. The Prayer to Blessed John B. Scalabrini was led by Dr. & Mrs. Raul and Rose Calicdan. Sally Alonso, Cantor and Ed Burkard was the Music director. A reception was hosted by the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group – Jamaica Estates Chapter after the Mass. Congratulations to all for the successful celebration. Photos by Henry The Feet of San Lorenzo Ruiz In a related event, the Most Reverend Jose S. Palma, DD, SthD, the Archbishop of Palo Leyte celebrated the Mass at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scalabrini (SLRS) Center in Jamaica on Tuesday September 30. The SLRS Center was full of people to welcome the Archbishop. After the Mass, everybody went outside to participate in the blessing and enshrinement of the Feet of San Lorenzo Ruiz officiated by Archbishop Palma. Archbishop Palma said that San Lorenzo Ruiz was martyred twice when his body was stolen and only the feet was left, a the reminder of the sufferings endured by San Lorenzo. He also expressed his appreciation to the doctors, nurses and volunteers for the Medical Mission of PMAA and the “Rice for the Poor” Humanitarian project of SLRAA in Catbalogan Samar last year. FPM Pompei Host to Archbishop Palma We are grateful to all the friends, volunteers and staff of Filipino Pastoral Ministry and Fr. Mike Lagrimas who helped us welcome Archbishop Jose S. Palma, DD, SThD at Pompei especially Maria de Jesus who prepared their breakfast every morning. The Archbishop stayed at Our Lady of Pompei Rectory for three days (Sept 29, 30 Oct 1) after he celebrated the Mass for the feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz on September 28 sponsored by the Filipino Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Newark, NJ(FAAN). He came with two retired priests Fr. Tony Andre and Fr. Nanding Yu from Leyte. They left on Thursday for Florida. 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 SGSK will hold a SGSK Halloween Costume Party fund raising on October 31 Friday 7:00 P.M. at the St. Nepomucene Church Hall at 411. E. 66th street and 1st Ave, NY 10065. The Adult admission is $30. Bring your Kids in costumes for trick or treating. Kids entrance are free! Food, Dancing, Games and Prizes for lucky Halloweeners! Mask or costume required for entry. 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. BFT 9th Annual Walk Against Poverty Foot Soldiers joined the 5K Walk against Poverty. The Building Futures Together (BFT) held its yearly fundraiser, the Ninthh Annual Walk for Poverty on Saturday September 20. The 5K (3.1 miles) walk took place at the beautiful Flushing Meadows, Corona Park Queens, New York. Foot Soldiers, participants met at the park under the Unisphere. The Consul General Cecile Rebong and Loudette Avelino, the founder of the BFT led the foot soldiers in the walkathon. The primary beneficiaries of the funds raised by the Foot Soldiers in BFT’s the 9th annual Walk against Poverty are the communities in the Provinces of Samar, Philippines. The community based programs of help and hope address the multidimensional aspects of poverty: no sources of income, illiteracy and malnourishment and other health issues including drug addiction and aids. If you would like to help, please contact Ms. Loudette Avelino 718 426 9471 or visit their website www.buildingfuturestogether. org. September Birthday Celebrations On September 5, the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Fund Raising – “Dancing with a Star” party was also the celebration of Fr. Joseph Marabe’s birthday. The SGSK Finance ADHOC Committee coordinated the event held at Our Lady of Pompei Fr. Demo Hall. Food, drinks, songs and dances all night long and raffle drawing. Maxie Chavez & Fr. Joseph Marabe celebrated their birthday on September 2 and the party was held on Sunday, September 7. Nelia Villanueva, Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Glen Dizon held a joint birthday celebration on September 14. Fr. Mike serenaded the guests while they ate the sumptuous food prepared by the birthday host Nelia & Bobby. All the September birthday celebrants hosted a birthday party on September 21 including Kevin Villanueva. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL! 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 October 03 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour 05 Sun 11:30AM Feast of OUR LADY OF POMPEI 17, 18 Fri/Sat Pre 20th FPM Anniversary Overnight Picnic – Upstate NY 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 December 05 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour Novena/Mass Poon Hesus Nazareno 06 Sat 6:30 PM Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) St. Patricks Cathedral 07 Sun 3:00 PM Christmas Triduum 08 Mon Feast of the Immaculate Conception 5th Anniversary of San Lorenzo Ruiz Center 21 Sun 3:00 PM FPM Christmas Party 24 Wed 12:00MN Midnight Mass 25 Thu Christmas Day- Holy Day of Obligation 28 Sun 3:00 PM December Birthday Celebrations 31 Wed 12:00MN FPM New Year’s Eve Party * Fellowship and Free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Mass FLORES DE MAYO By AA Medrano The May Flower Festival marks the culmination of the children’s flower offering to the Blessed Virgin Mary during the Sunday Masses in the month of May. The Flores de Mayo is one of the oldest Filipino religious traditions. Variations exist and much of its structure and organization depends upon the imagination and financial capability of the hermanas or sponsor-organizers. Like the Santakrusan devotion that it also celebrated in the month of May, the Flores de Mayo observance began as form of devotion that was catechetical in nature. Designed to form the minds and touch the hearts of young children, the Flores de Mayo devotion can be an enjoyable form of prayer and religious education for today’s young believer’s. To keep these customs alive takes real effort and sacrifice for us, but the reward is a deeper awareness of Filipino culture and religious tradition. The Flores de Mayo tradition is a valuable part of the Filipino folk religiosity and culture. May the faithful observance of this May devotion help to shape the minds and hearts of today’s children. SANTAKRUSAN By AA Medrano The Santakrusan is another much-awaited religious festival celebrated during the month of May in almost every barrio and town. In New York, the tradition continues at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan with its 18th annual FLORES DE MAYO & SANTAKRUSAN SA VILLAGE celebration. This is a novena procession in which the last Sunday of May becomes a procession of pomp and pageantry. A Reina Elena characterizing Queen Elena reigns with her consort, representing Emperor Constantine who is joined by the town’s beautiful girls (Sagala) and those coming from the neighboring boroughs, towns and cities. This festivity commemorates the finding of the Holy Cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified, by Queen Helena, the mother of Constantine, the Great Emperor of Rome. The Holy Cross was said to have been buried in the Calvary Hill in Jerusalem. Helen traveled many times to Palestine where she ordered churches built, one near the Nativity Grotto in Bethlehem, and another on the Mount of Ascension near the Holy City. St. Helena, was venerated as saint from the time she died in 330. Her remains were believed to have been transferred to a vault in Hautvilliers Abbey near Rheims, France. Like Emperor Constantine, St. Helen was a Christian convert. Photos by Henry 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. more....

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

April 2008
AAMedrano

After the Holy Week, the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei starts the second quarter with a full schedule.

This is a special year and all the activities and celebrations starting with the Poon Hesus Nazareno last January are concurrent with the 20th anniversary of the FPM. The culmination of all the activities will be on the 20th Anniversary celebration in October, 2008.

Novena Mass to Santo Nino

It is that time of the year again, that the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei Church welcomes the family members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPG/NY) for the annual nine days Novena Mass in preparation for the feast day in honor of Santo Nino. Starting on April 13, the member and sponsor families of each chapter of the SPGNY will come together every Sunday to attend the Novena Mass. The weekly transfer of the Santo Nino images between the sponsor families will be done in the church.

On June 25, the SPG/NY will celebrate the 25th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta. This year’s celebration coincides with the 20th anniversary year of the FPM. The SPG/NY is the backbone of the FPM. Its members have a vital role in promoting the programs and activities of the ministry. The SPG/NY is the link to our kababayans that the Filipino Pastoral Ministry serves.

The host for this year’s celebration is the Manhattan Chapter of SPG/NY, Josie Bueno, coordinator and hermana mayor.

If you have petitions and thanksgiving prayer to Santo Nino, please contact the Filipino Pastoral Ministry c/o Fr. Romy Montero (212) 727 0214 or the Chapter Coordinators of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York : Norma de Jesus -Brooklyn, Josie Bueno - Manhattan, Noemi Alfaro - Queens and Alma Cruz - Bronx.

20th Baclaran sa Village - Feast of Mother of Perpetual Help

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei Church (FPM) will celebrate the 20th annual Feast day of Our Mother of Perpetual Help on Wednesday June 25, 2008. To prepare for the 20th Feast day, there will be nine Wednesdays perpetual novena Mass starting on April 23. The Exposition of the Holy Eucharist, Rosary and Novena will start at 6:00 P.M. The Mass will follow at 6:30 P.M. to be celebrated by different invited priest each week.

The FPM was officially launched with the first Novena Mass in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help on October 26, 2008 which evolved into what is now known as “Baclaran sa Village.” The devotion gained momentum among the Filipinos that other churches with many Filipino parishioners followed the lead of the FPM.

The 2000 Hail Mary Outreach, led by the Salvador Family is this year’s Hermana Mayor for the June 25 Baclaran sa Village celebration. Please come and join us every Wednesday at 6:30 P.M for the Novena Mass.

18th Sayawan sa Village

Please come and join us to the 18th Annual Sayawan sa Village sponsored by the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York and the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei in Manhattan. It will be held on April 19, 2008 Saturday 7:00 P.M. to midnight.

The proceeds of the Sawayan sa Village will be used to support the programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and to help defray the expenses for the 18th Annual Flores De Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village, and the 25th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta.

For tickets and information: Filipino Pastoral Ministry c/o Fr. Romy Montero (212) 727 0214 or the Chapter Coordinators of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York : Norma de Jesus -Brooklyn, Josie Bueno - Manhattan, Noemi Alfaro - Queens and Alma Cruz - Bronx.

Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village 2008

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei is now accepting Sagalas or applicants for the 18th Annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village. If you would like your sons and daughters to participate in this yearly event in the village, please contact Noime Alfaro, the Santakrusan sa Village Hermana Mayor, the Coordinators of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Alma Cruz (Bronx), Josie Bueno (Manhattan), Norma de Jesus (Elmhurst/Brooklyn) and the Assistant Coordinators of Queens Chapter - Nelia Cloma and Florence Sikorski.

The children ages 2 to 12 are welcome to participate in the weekly flower offering to the Virgin Mary starting on May 4 after the 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino. Please contact Josie Bueno who is coordinating the children for the Flores de Mayo.

Pabasa ng Pasyon sa Village

We are grateful to the enthusiastic response of the Filipino community to the annual Pabasa ng Pasyon sa Village sponsored by Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica, Queens. Some devotees gave their time to finish the singing of the Pasyon without sleep to fulfill a Panata. Different groups came to participate on different hour thus the timing and taking turns to sing while others could rest for a while helped a lot to finish the book in record time.

The Stations of the Cross and Rosary Prayer preceded the Pabasa that started at 8:30 P.M. on Friday March 14 and continued through the next day Saturday March 15 until 1:00 P.M. Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Mike Lagrimas concelebrated the Mass and blessing of the Palaspas after the Pabasa.

Congratulations to the Hermano Mayores of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village, Bobby and Nelia Villanueva & family for the successful and very meaningful Pabasa ng Pasyon.

Meanwhile, the in-house Pabasa ng Pasyon at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center was hosted by the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group. The Pasyon was divided into five parts and the singing was done for 3 to 4 hours daily starting on Holy Monday, March 17 through Good Friday at 7:30 P.M. to 11:30 P.M. Dr. Helen Amador coordinated the event.

Brooklyn Bridge Way of the Cross

On Good Friday the members of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry led by Msgr. Romy Montero and the devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno of Our Lady of Pompei joined the 11th Annual Brooklyn Bridge Way of the Cross. The procession started from St. James Cathedral at 250 Cathedral Place in Brooklyn, stopping at City Hall, Ground Zero and ended at St Peter’s Church in Lower Manhattan.

Many members of the FPM joined the event despite the cold and windy weather. Thank you to all of you and we hope you will attend again next year. The Annual Brooklyn Bridge Way of the Cross became part of the Good Friday activity for the volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry since Nancy Hombrebueno and I first joined procession in 2004. More members and devotees along with the image of the Poon Hesus Nazareno participated in the following year.

Easter Sunday Celebration

The kids ages 1 to 12 took center stage in the annual Easter Sunday celebration hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei. It was a fun filled event for the kids -Egg hunting, egg painting and games. The kids also showed their ballroom dancing talent led by Katherine Laurencio and her friends. Prizes were given to the winners for the best painted egg, for the best egg hunter and for the different games. All the kids received Easter party gifts from Katherine and the Laurencio family, the host of the Annual Children’s Easter Sunday celebration.

The usual Sunday line and ballroom dancing followed after the children’s event.

March Birthday Celebrators at Pompei

Celebrating birthdays has become part of the weekly fellowship at Our Lady of Pompei Church after the Filipino Mass every Sunday at3:00 P.M. Every week birthday celebrators join the Mass and celebrate their birthdays at Pompei. At times, the celebrators become the sponsors for the week that provide the food. Every last Sunday of the month, all the birthday celebrants are invited for the special birthday blessing as well as for the big birthday party.

Happy Birthday to all the Birthday Celebrators for the month of March as follows: Chit & Katherine Laurencio, Crisanto Gutierrez, Glenda Gutierrez, Ed Pascual, Gigi Gonzales, Ernie Bugarin,, Norma de Jesus, Nelia Cloma, Nestor Nepomuceno, Alexandra & Daisy Penaredondo-Armas, Vanina Cruz, Del Chavez, Ronnie Chavez, Lydia Duran, Lea Arce, Mila Javier, Myrna Miguel, Sylvia Peny, Annaliza Gutierrez, Gloria Rose Gutierrez, Emily Crisologo, Mel Cortes, Robert Tan, Mylene Valenzuela, Abel Baylon, Vince Cueva, Divina Macaraig, Lolita Palma, Jae Tamale, Robert Tagle, Archie Reyes, Girlie Suarez, Victor Sagucio, Reynaldo Ingco Jr., Jason Felix Reyes, Priscilla Margaret Alimario, Paulo Martin Alimario, Arlene Padilla.

And a memorial remembrance to Nanay Choling Sison for her birthday on March 15 and for her 2nd year death anniversary on March 28, 2008.

SAN LORENZO RUIZ CENTER – Jamaica Queens

Schedule of Activities

Santo Nino at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center

A new chapel was dedicated to the Santo Nino, Our Lady of Fatima and to the Lord of Pardon on March 1, 2008. Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD and Fr. Ramon Saavedra officiated the blessing of the chapel.

There will be prayer service every 25th of the month be in honor or Santo Nino at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center. All the Santo Nino Prayer Groups will have the opportunity to host the monthly service. Please contact Minda Ealdama who will coordinate the monthly Santo Nino prayer service.

Novena Mass for the Feast day of Our Lady of Manaoag

The nine days Novena Mass in preparation for the Feast day of Our Lady of Manaoag hosted by the SLRAA at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center will start on April 25 to May 3, 2008 at 7:30 P.M. Each day Novena Mass will be sponsored by the different groups.

The Feast day celebration will be held on May 4, 2008 3:00 P.M. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica, Queens. This year’s Hermano and Hermana Mayores are Mrs. Nelly Uy and Mr. & Mrs. Tito & Matty Lerum representing the Pangasinan group and the Hermano Mayor for San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group.

Marian Seminar

Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Parochial Vicar of St. Teresa’s Church will conduct Mariology seminar on April 13 Sunday 2:00 P.M. to 4:00P.M. at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica Queens. It will be study of teachings about the Virgin Mary, the doctrines and beliefs . If you are interested, please contact the SLR Center for reservation.

Direction to San Lorenzo Ruiz Center:

Subway: Take the F train to 169 Street Stop, (the 2nd to the last stop of the F train). Exit at Hillside Ave, go up the hill on 169th Street passing Highland Ave. and Gothic St. to 84th Ave. The SLR Center is at the corner of 169th St and 84th Ave.

Our Lady of Antipolo Chapel – SLRCenter Jamaica

A new chapel was dedicated to the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage – Lady of Antipolo at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica, Queens on First Friday, April 4. Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD blessed the image and the chapel after the concelebrated Mass in the SLRCenter. The Biasbas-Paraiso family of Staten Island sponsored the new chapel.

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

April

4 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour

13 Sun 3:00PM 1st Day Novena Mass SANTO NINO
Nine Sundays in preparation for the Feast day on June 15, 2008

19 Sat 7:00P.M 18th SAYAWAN SA VILLAGE

23 Wed 6:30PM 1st Day Perpetual Novena to Mother of Perpetual Help
in preparation for the Feast day - June 25, 2008

27 Sun 3:00PM April Birthday celebration

*Fellowship and free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Misang Pilipino Mass

May

02 Fri 6:30 PM 1st Friday Mass & Holy Hour

04 Sun 3:00PM Start of FLORES DE MAYO (All Sundays of May 11,18,25)
Novena Mass for Santo Nino

7 Wed 6:30 PM Perpetual Novena Mother of Perpetual Help
in preparation for the Feast day - June 25, 2008

11 Sun 3:00PM Mother’s Day

18 Sun 3:00 PM May Birthday Celebration

25 Sun 3:00 PM 18th Annual MAY CROWNING & SANTAKRUSAN SA VILLAGE
Host: Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Queens Chapter
Noime Alfaro – Coordinator/Hermana Mayor

*Fellowship and free Line / Ballroom dancing every Sunday after the Misang Pilipino Mass

Pre-Valentines Day Party at Pompei

Feb 2008
AAMedrano

Come join us for the Pre-Valentines day celebration at the Fr. Demo Hall of Our Lady of Pompei Church on February 10, 2008 after the 3:00P.M. Filipino Mass. Bring your friends and love ones for the Mass and then the dancing and party to follow. This year’s celebration will include the best of the “Karaoke Moments” of pre-registered participants and the selection Mr. & Ms. Valentine. Everybody has the chance to become the Mr. & Ms. Valentine. The winner will be chosen from among the guests present. Everybody is welcome. Maxie Chavez is coordinating the celebration. For more information, please call the office of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry c/o Msgr Romy Montero 212 727 0214.

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) Thankgiving Party

The Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) Steering Committee will host the thanksgiving party on February 17, 2008. All the volunteers, participants, and committee members who have contributed to the successful event held at St. Patricks Cathedral are invited. It will be get-together and appreciation party for the untiring efforts of everyone who helped to make December 1st Simbang Gabi Sa Katedral a memorable and significant evening for our Filipino-American community and for all of us. The party will start at 5:00 P.M.to be held at the Father Demo Hall of Our Lady of Pompei Church 25 Carmine Street, New York City 10014.

Pabasa ng Pasyon sa Village

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America (SLRAA) invites you come and participate in the annual Pabasa ng Pasyon at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica Queens. Pabasa ng Pasyon is the traditional commemoration and celebration of the Christ’s Passion and Death through the non-stop reading and singing the verses in the Filipino tradition.

The overnight Pabasa ng Pasyon hosted by the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village of Pompei will start on Friday March 14 through Saturday March 15 at 8:00P.M. Mr. & Mrs. Bobby and Nelia Villanueva, the 2008 hermana and hermana mayor are coordinating the preparation for the annual event.

The 5-Days Pabasa ng Pasyon during the Holy Week will start on March 16 to 21 at 7:30 P.M to midnight. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group in Jamaica is hosting the daily Pabasa. This year’s hermano and hermana mayor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Jamaica Drs. Jorge and Helen Aguila-Amador will coordinate the Pabasa.

Direction to San Lorenzo Ruiz Center: Subway: Take the F train to 169 Street Stop, (the 2nd to the last stop of the F train). Exit at Hillside Ave, go up the hill on 169th Street passing Highland Ave. and Gothic St. to 84th Ave. The SLR Center is at the corner of 169th St and 84th Ave.

Poon Hesus Nazareno in Jamaica

The Friends of SLRAA and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group of Jamaica Estate hosted the 2nd feast day of the Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 9,at the Holy Family Church in 175-20 Flushing Queens. Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD was the main celebrant of the Mass. The concelebrants were Msgr. Romy Montero, Fr. Mark Escobar, cs, Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD, also the homilist and Fr. Mike Lagrimas was the master of ceremonies. Fr. James King, the administrator of the Holy Family also concelebrated and welcomed the congregation at the beginning of the Mass.

The life size image of the Poon Hesus Nazareno was taken to the church for the feast day celebration. After the Mass, the people lined up and took turns to venerate the Poon Hesus Nazareno.

It was a very successful event. Congratulations to the Amador Family, Helen & Jorge the 2008 Hermano & Hermana Mayor who led the preparation of this year’s celebration. Likewise congratulations to the members of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group for their devotion and continued support of the religious activities at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center especially the Poon Hesus Nazareno.

San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica 168-41 84th Ave. Jamaica Hills, NY 11432

Every Tuesday Devotion San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, Our Lady of Manaoag, Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini

Every Friday Devotion Poon Hesus Nazareno

Novena Mass held every First Tuesday and First Friday of the month.

January Birthday Celebrators

Happy Birthday to All the January Birthday celebrators especially to : Msgr. Romy Montero, Dayday Unarosa, Cora Lopez, Rosie Rodico, Marilou Bugarin, Jesse Montero, Nick & Edith Libramonte, Manny Pascual, Josie Olalo, Letty Dolan, Bobby Villanueva, Rochelle Pascual, Jourjine Pascual, Oscar de la Isla, Carmela Sikorski, Eliza Lapitan, Novel Mosura, Armando Caringal, Tess Reyes, Fr. Warlito Namo, Fr. Ruben Camayo, Vilma Filoteo, Dr. Cesar Malantic, Jun Makinano. May all your birthday wishes come true. We may all differ in the way we celebrate our birthdays, but it is important to give thanks to the Lord for the Gift of Life that we have received. Happy Birthday to all!

Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei

Schedule of Activities
Filipino Masses

Every Sunday 3:00 P.M. Misang Pilipino

Every Wednesday 6:30 PM Novena Mass Our Lady of Perpetual Help

February

3 Sun 3:00PM Presentation of the Lord

6 Wed 6:30 PM Ash Wednesday

10 Sun 3:00PM Valentines Day Party

17 Sun 5:00PM Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) Thanksgiving Party

24 Sun 4:00PM February Birthday celebrations
Sun 6:00PM Laksambayan Meeting Part I

March

2 Sun 6:00PM Laksambayan Meeting Part II

7 Fri 6:30PM First Friday Devotion

14 & 15 Fri 8:00PM PABASA NG PASYON sa Village

17 - 21 San Lorenzo Ruiz Center, Jamaica Coordinator – Bobby & Nelia Villanueva

16 Sun 3:00PM Palm Sunday

20 Thu 7:00PM Holy Thursday - Washing of the Feet

21 Fri 9:00A.M Brooklyn Bridge Way of the Cross
And the Poon Hesus Nazareno Devotees

21 Fri 7:00 P.M. Good Friday - Veneration of the Cross

23 Sun 3:00PM Easter Sunday
Children=s Easter Egg Hunting

30 Sun 3:00PM March Birthday celebrations Divine Mercy Novena Mass

By AAMedrnao
January 2008

Happy New Year to All! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. As we welcome the year 2008, we thank the Lord for the year that has gone by. We must all be grateful for what we have - family, friends, good health and we still keep our job.. And be patient for unfulfilled wishes because you'll never know, it may come later. Above all, we thank the Lord for what we are today and we rely on HIM for what tomorrow brings. New Year means new challenges, new plans, new hope, new opportunities , and 366 days to reflect on new ways to be a good Christian.

On Sunday, January 6 we had a double celebration, at Our lady of Pompei Church.- the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord and the 9th annual feast day celebration of the Poon Hesus Nazareno, the famous Filipino devotion. The celebration started with transfer of the Poon Hesus Nazareno image from the outgoing Hermano and Hermana Mayor Boni and Zeny Papa to the new Hermano and Hermana Mayor Bobby and Nelia Villanueva officiated by Msgr. Romy Montero. The transfer of the image symbolized the turn- over of responsibility of the care of the Poon for one year. The Mass and procession of the image followed after the transfer. .

The feast day is the culmination of the nine Novena Mass held every Friday for nine consecutive weeks at Our Lady of Pompei Church. There is a separate Novena Mass that is drawing a lot devotees everyday attending the nine consecutive days that started on New Years day and still going on as of press time at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center. And the feast day celebration to be held at the Holy Family Church in Queens on January 9.

9th Annual Feast of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Pompei.

2008 marks the 20th anniversary of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei and what makes a better way to begin the anniversary year with a successful fiesta celebration of the Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 6 in Manhattan. In addition, the presence of the Provincial Superior of the Scalabrinian Fathers, the Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Fugolo, c.s., the main celebrant of Mass, showed the continued support of the Scalabrinian Fathers to the ministry ever since it begun when Fr. Bobby Sison founded the Filipino Pastoral Ministry 20 years ago.

The devotees of the Poon Hesus Nazareno that filled the church of Our Lady Our Lady of Pompei was a manifestation of the vision of Fr. Bobby that will unite the Filipinos. The spirit of the ‘pagkaka-isa” was shown yesterday. Fr. Joseph Fugolo, c.s. was very impressed with the turn out of devotees. He paid tribute to the late Fr. Bobby Sison’s work, whose vision was always to create a welcoming church for the Filipinos, a home church where they could practice their religious and cultural tradition.

Msgr. Romy Montero, Msgr. Oscar A. Aquino, JCD, and John Massari,c.s. Pastor of Our Lady of Pompei, Fr. Mike Lagrimas were the concelebrants of the Mass. Fr. Lagrimas was the homilist who gave a very profound and interesting homily.

Maestro Hector Martinez provided the music and the Our Lady of Pompei Filipino Choir with some members of the choir from the different churches.

The fiesta celebration will not be complete without the reception. Sumptuous Filipino food such as adobo, lechon and other Filipino delicacies and desserts were served.

Congratulations to this year’s Hermano and Hermana Mayor, Bobby and Nelia Villanueva, their children Justine and Kevin who worked together in the preparation to make a very successful and well attended celebration. Likewise thank you to all the past hermano and hermano mayores who helped and participated in the celebration. And thank you to all who came to celebrate the 9th annual Fiesta ng Poon Hesus Nazareno

FPM Christmas Party

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry held its Christmas Party on December 23, 2007 after the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass at Our Lady of Pompei Church Fr. Demo Hall. Thank you to our Santa Claus this year, Nonong Torres who distributed gifts to the children. There were also raffle drawing and exchange gifts.

Fr. Romy Montero with fellow Waray, Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Msgr. Francisco Cinco III performed the traditional “Curacha” dance. Jeremy Salvador and Kristianne Castillo once again wowed the guests with their ball room dance performance.

The FPM volunteers and staff serenaded the guests with the special Christmas song. Fr. Mike Lagrimas did the lyrics of the Chistmas song dedicated to the friends of Pompei. Fr. Romy and Fr. Mike Lagrimas did the drums accompaniment while Msgr. Francisco “Jun” Cinco III played the guitar.

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry presented to the Pastor, Fr. John Massari, CS, the donation to the Capital Fund Campaign of Our Lady of Pompei Church. He was very grateful to the great effort the Filipino community is doing to help raise funds for the repairs and improvement of the church.

It was a fun filled celebration.

San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica

The SLR Center was packed with devotees during the traditional nine days Simbang Gabi on December 15 to 23. It was same for the Poon Hesus Nazareno Novena Mass that started on New Years day.

On December 8, the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center celebrated its fourth anniversary. The Center was full to capacity during the celebration. Seven candidates were installed as the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz in a solemn ceremony presided by Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD with the help of Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Warlie Namo. Congratulations to the new Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz as follows: Joey Penafiel, Ed Olivares, Douglas Ealdama, Ben Saguirer, Joseph Pasaoa, Ramon Filoteo.

The new officers of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group – Jamaica Estate were also inducted on that day: Tito Lerum – President, Romy Zamudio – President, Ignie Ocampao – Secretary, Loida de la Isla – Treasurer, Dr. Helen Amador & Dado Acayan – Auditors and Fred Donaire- Executive Director. Congratulations to all of you!

The SLRAA celebrated the Christmas Party on December 23, the last day of the Simbang Gabi. There were lots of food, Christmas carols, gift giving, dancing and Karaoke singing. The Hawaiian belles led by Dr. Cesar Malantic and Romy Zamudio were a total entertainment with their Hawaiian dance performance. Not to be outdone were Msgr. Oscar Aquino, and all Waray priests - Msgr. Romy Montero, Msgr. Francisco “Jun” Cinco III, Fr. Joy Tentativa, Fr. Mike Lagrimas for their own version of the Hawaiian dance. It was indeed a very enjoyable night.

Poon Hesus Nazareno in Jamaica, Queens

The 2nd annual feast day of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Jamaica sponsored by the SLRAA and San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group – Jamaica Estates will be held at the Holy Family Church in 175-20 74th Ave. Flushing NY 11366. The life size image of the Poon Hesus Nazareno enshrined at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center will be taken to the church for the Mass and procession.

Dr. Helen Aguila-Amador is the Hermana Mayor of this year’s celebration.

With the presence of the Poon Hesus Nazareno in Jamaica, more devotees were able to venerate the Poon not only at Our Lady of Pompei in Manhattan but also at the SLRCenter. Please come and attend the weekly devotion every Friday at 7:00 P.M. at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center, 168-41 84th Ave., Jamaica Hills NY 11432.

Laksambayan Meeting

The annual Laksambayan Meeting hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry will be held on Sunday January 27, 2008. There will be a Mass of Thanksgiving then followed by fellowship and meeting to discuss the important programs and activities for the year. Please come and join us.

December Happenings

Happy Birthday to all December birthday celebrators especially to Josie Bueno, Freddie Salvador, Marilyn Zamudio.

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Congratulations to Boni and Zeny Papa who celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary. Fr. Romy Montero officiated the renewal of their marriage vows during the Wednesday Perpetual Help Novena Mass on January 2, 2008. A very happy reception was held at the FPM office.

By AAMedrano

In behalf of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee (SGsK), we would like to thank The Filipino Catholic for the full support you have given to this event. The first news and pictures about the SGsK were published in the Filipino Catholic and we are very grateful for that. Many of the Filipino Catholic readers came to witness History at St. Patricks Cathedral. Maraming Salamat Po! - Cely Medrano, SGsK Secretary.

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral

We could still feel the impact of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral at St Patricks Cathedral after event, hearing the comments and congratulatory remarks from people. We are all part of history. We Pinoys should be proud. We are grateful to the members of the Steering Committee led by Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD who proved to all that nothing is impossible if every body could work hard for the common good. The SGsK Steering Committee had regular meetings. planning and closely monitoring the activities that was going to happen, we were prepared. We were expecting that the Cathedral will be full but not overflowing and some were not able to get in. Our kababayans came to St Patricks Cathedral from everywhere despite the cold winter weather. We apologize to those who were not allowed get in and stayed outside for the Mass. Thank you for all the support.

Msgr. Robert T. Ritchie, Pastor of the Cathedral of St. Patrick was the main celebrant of the Mass. More than 35 Filipino priest concelebrated in the Simbang Gabi Sa Katedral. Rev. Joseph Marabe, JCD delivered an inspiring homily, unity among us Filipinos.

Food Stations were set-up outside the cathedral were Food volunteer servers handed out Filipino delicacies, hot chocolate and salabat after Mass. The real troopers were the rondalla, dance performers and singers who delighted the waiting crowd outside the Cathedral at 5th Avenue for their cultural performance despite the cold weather following the “Show must Go On” to the letter.

The Simbang Gabis sa Katedral is only the beginning, the prelude to Simbang Gabi in the different parishes and centers in the coming weeks. Please support all of them, too. (See Schedule)

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE SGsK STEERERS FOR THE COMMENDABLE BAYANIHAN AND PAGKAKA-ISA, A JOB WELL DONE.

Likewise, I am personally grateful to the FPM Pompei family, volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center who gave their unconditional support to Fr. Joseph and the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee for the successful Simbang Gabi sa Katedral. Maraming marami pong salamat sa inyong lahat.

Founders Day of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei held its annual Thanksgiving Memorial Mass for Fr. Bobby B. Sison, the Founding Director, on November 18 at Our Lady of Pompei church. The Filipino Pastoral Ministry continues to be the welcoming church for the Filipinos. I will always remember Fr. Joseph Cogo’s message to us, the former Pastor of Our Lady of Pompei, four years ago after the 40th day memorial Mass for Fr. Bobby - “Cely, we have to continue the programs that Fr. Bob had started for the Filipino community... “ The continued success of the programs and activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry under the leadership of Msgr. Romy Montero is our lasting tribute to the legacy of Fr. Bobby. Next year, 2008 the Filipino Pastoral Ministry will celebrate its 20th anniversary.

San Lorenzo Ruiz Center

On November 20, Nick Libramonte hosted a Memorial Thanksgiving for Fr. Bobby Sison at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center. The Mass was celebrated by Msgr. Oscar Aquino, Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Warlie Namo was the homilist. The FPM Pompei family and the Sison family joined the devotees at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center for the memorial Mass. Reception at Fr. Bobby Sison Hall

 

Thanksgiving Day Mass and Celebration

The volunteers and staff of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei continue to hold the Annual Thanksgiving Vigil Mass and Dinner. On November 21, after the prayer service and Mass for the Mother of Perpetual Help, the devotees were invited to the pot luck Thanksgiving dinner prepared by the members of the FPM family. Different Filipino food and the traditional Roast turkey were served. It was an enjoyable evening of fun - singing, games, dancing and exchanging jokes that lasted until the early morning.

Anniversary of Foundation of the Scalabrini Fathers

The Missionaries of St. Charles, the Scalabrini Fathers, celebrated the 120th anniversary of its founding by Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini. The founding of the mission took place in the Basilica of St. Antonino in Piacenza on November 28, 1887 when Bishop Scalabrini gave the Missionary cross to two missionaries leaving for the Americas to help the Italian migrants. The Scalabrini Fathers in the New York area celebrated a special mass at Our Lady of Pompei church on November 28 during the 12.05 Mass to commemorate the event. Rev. Walter Tonelotto, c.s. the local Superior and Director of Radio Maria was the main celebrant of the Mass. The 8th graders of the Scalabrinian parishes from Brooklyn and China town joined the Our Lady of Pompei School 8th graders in the celebration of the Mass.

Christmas Triduum and the Simbang Gabi

The first day of the Christmas Triduum in preparation for the birthday of the Baby Jesus was held on December 2 at Our Lady of Pompei during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass. The Triduum will continue on all Sundays of December prior to Christmas Day.

Meanwhile at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center, the nine days Simbang Gabi will start on December 15 at 7:30 P.M. and every night thereafter until December 23.

Please come and join the Mass and Prayers in preparation for Christmas. The FPM Christmas party will be held on December 23.

SIMBANG GABI SCHEDULES 2007

CHURCH	ADDRESS	DATE	TIME	CONTACT	PHONE
Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz www.chapelofsanlorenzoruiz.org	378 Broome Street, NY, NY, 10013	December 16-24	23 - 12:30p 17 - 21 - 6:30p 22 - 5:00p 24 - 6:30a & 8pm	Fr. Erno Diaz	(212) 966-1019
Church of Our Lady of Pompeii	25 Carmine Street New York City NY 10014	Triduum Masses all Sundays of December	3:00 P.M.	Msgr.Romy Montero	(212) 989-6805
Church of the Holy Child Jesus	111-11 86th Avenue Richmond Hill NY 11418	December 15-23	7:00PM	Rose Alovera	(212)-381-2196
Church of the Immaculate Conception	414 East 14th Street/First Avenue,NewYork, NY 10009	December16-24	6:00 AM	Zeny Abarriao	(212) 673 3873; (917) 287 0384
Most Precious Blood Church	32-23 36th Street, Long Island City, NY 11106	December 16-24	5:00 PM	Nenita Advincula	(718) 396-9677
Philippine Center	556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10038	December12-20	6:30 PM	Merle Puruganan	(212)-764-1330 x310
Roman Catholic Church of St.Sebastian	58-02 Roosevelt Ave, Woodside, NY 11377	Dec.15-23	Dec.15 & 23 at 6 PM, Dec.16-22 7:30 PM	Juliet Sibug Belinda Sebastian	(718) 429-1167 (718) 457-3575
San Lorenzo Ruiz Center	168-41 84th Ave. Jamaica Hills, NY 11432	December 15 -23, 2007	7:30 PM	Nick Libramonte/ Romy Zamudio	(718) 206-1135
Our Lady of Mercy	40 Sullivan Drive, Jersey City, 07305	December 15-23	Dec. 15 5:30 PM Dec. 16-23 7:00 PM		(201) 434-7500
Our Lady of Victory	2217 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, 07304	December 16-24	5:00 AM		(201) 433-4152
St. Anne's Church	3545 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07307	December 15-23	7:00 PM		(201) 656-2490
St. Mary's Church	2nd Street between Manila Ave and Erie St Jersey City, NJ	December15-23	7:15:00 PM (7:00 PM on Sunday)		(201) 434-8500
Guardian Angel RC Church	2978 Ocean Pkwy Brooklyn, NY 11235-8380	December15-23	7:30 PM	Leo Torres	(718) 946-0803
St Brigid's RC Church	409 Linden St, Brooklyn, NY 11237-5898	December15-23	7:30 PM	Emma Padierno	(718) 574-0865
Corpus Christi RC Church	31-30 61 St, Woodside NY 11377	December15-23	7:30 PM	Aida Bartolome	(718) 565-8852
The Church of the Ascension RC Church	86-13 55th Avenue Elmhurst, NY 11373	December13-21	7:30 PM	Mary Ann Nepomuceno	(718) 335 4772
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish	92-96 220th St Queens Village, NY 11428	December15-23	7:30 PM	Betty Power	(718) 740-7200

4th Anniversary of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica

On December 8, Saturday 11:00 A.M., a Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center to commemorate its 4th anniversary. On this day, the program of activities include the installation of the five candidates for the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz and the induction of the officers of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotional Group - Jamaica Estate. It will also mark the 2nd year of the launching of the Poon Hesus Nazareno devotion in Jamaica.

Please come and join us in the celebration at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center 168-41 84th Avenue Jamaica Hill Queens NY 11432.

Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village and in Jamaica

Our Lady of Pompei will celebrate the annual Feast Day celebration in honor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno on January 6, 2008. Mr. & Mrs. Bobby and Nelia Villanueva are the incoming Hermano & Hermana Mayor of the Poon Hesus Nazareno sa Village celebration.

In preparation for the feast day, the nine Friday novena Mass is held at Our Lady of Pompei that started on November 9 and every Friday thereafter until January 4, 2008.

At the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica Queens, the nine days novena Mass in preparation for the feast day of Poon Hesus Nazareno will start on Monday December 31 and every day until January 8 at 7:30 P.M. The feast day celebration will be held on January 9, the same day celebrated in Quiapo, Manila, Philippines.

SGsK Sayawan sa Village

The Sayawan sa Village sponsored by the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral (SGsK) Steering Committee and the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei held on November 11, 2007 was very successful. We thank those who came and supported the event to raise funds for the December 1 Simbang Gabi Prelude at St. Patricks Cathedral in New York City.

It was a night of dancing, Karaoke Moments during intermission, raffle drawing, Curacha dance led by Msgr. Romy Montero & Fr. Mike Lagrimas.

We have lots of people to thank for the success of the Sayawan. The food were donated by the members of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Pompei and the members of the SGsK Steering Committee. Thank you to Bobby Villanueva as DJ, Music and entertainment who did not charge for the service as well to Gody Olaso who coordinated the program.

Pinoy Plus Five

By Rev. Joseph G. Marabe, J.C.D.
Parochial Vicar, St. Patricks Cathedral

Over-All Chair

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee

Every time, Christmas fever hits high on 5th Avenue – the Rockefeller Tree; the Radio City Spectacular. This year the weather even seemed to conspire to confuse people’s plans. When they are supposed to lie curled under comforters, leaves defiantly cling to the boughs till now.

Then came Simbang Gabi of the Filipinos – also on the 5th; in the first of December. After the Mass inside the most renowned Cathedral in the U.S., native delicacies were freely shared. Youthful dancers displayed their grace and toughness to brave the chilling wind. At the corner of 51st and 5th! The Event is thought to be a miracle story of unity and generosity - at the Big Apple.

Unity. Individual worshippers and families, civic groups and parish delegations coming by buses and trains from the NY.NJ.CT tri-states and Pennsylvania added to the congestion of Mid-Manhattan. NYPD so graciously allowed them to park near the church. The seating capacity of the Cathedral is 24 hundred. The headcount was more than three thousand. Some are reported not to have been admitted in. Is there a way to assuage the frustration of these people? The consoling factor is that Pinoys are reputedly patient and resilient.

Generosity. Through different channels food and money flowed into the resource tank of the committee. In 45 days a Journal was put up from the advertisers shooting way beyond the target mark. The miracle of sharing food could feed two thousand people. Another miracle of multiplication was necessary at that point of feeding a thousand more.

Another miracle of science was highlighted at the celebration. The formerly conjoined twins, Carl and Clarence Aguirre, attended with their mother and a nanny. They are a national treasure. Their historic and unprecedented process of operation could save many other conjoined twins in the future.

Celebrating these miracles serially is hard enough; handling them simultaneously makes a people great. But the reference point is the greatest miracle of all – the Father’s Gift of His Son to the world. It is only fair that we do not rush-judge any festivities. We must savor the divine flavor in each one of them, preserving the power, the presence – and our own sanity.

Reviews and Comments about the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral

December 1, 2007:

By Fr. Warlito Namo
Chair, Presentation Committee

Once again, WE, FILIPINOS made HISTORY! Our BAYANIHAN SPIRIT was so much felt and expressed since day one till that amazing evening when impressions abound from one to the thousands. Added to that, everyone was so humble that you could never identify who is who, and who is what? It was pure Filipinism that reigned unto all of us...now we strongly affirm that indeed FAITH once lived will forever be expressed in MUSIC...now is the moment to sing THANKSGIVING to the God who moved each one to be a real AGUINALDO to every Filipino and beyond!

Fr. Joseph...two thumbs up for a well deserved and commendable LEADERSHIP! Do we see STARS ahead glittering? Hmmmmm, whatever that is, I know, you will do it FOR God's greater glory!

To all the Committees.. .WOW and a big WOW!!! Personally as a priest, I was evangelized by your commitment and dedication to any task given to you and did them without any tinge of complaint and ughhhhs! Despite of everything you still managed to SMILE because you knew it was THE power of a CHRISTIAN CATHOLIC to make any endeavor a SUCCESS! And it was...and furthermore, WE made HISTORY!

To my Committee partner, Vivian Velasco...I believe you can never escape to do the same next year (lol)...you were just great! Thanks!

Well, we are just starting and we know MORE is coming and therefore, MORE to take as a CHALLENGE. We are never afraid to dare it then because we know HOW... Thank you very much and God bless!

Comments by the St. Patricks Cathedral Staff as told to Fr. Joseph Marabe, Over-All Chair:

Rector of the Cathedral, Msgr. Robert T. Ritchie and the Main Celebrant of the Mass. . -"It was a huge success. ... and the Journal, Wow!"

(Technically Msgr. Ritchie was the initiator when he requested Fr. Joseph Marabe to hold the Simbang Gabi at the Cathedral like what he saw in LA. Fr. Joseph gathered the parish leaders and the Filipino community responded.)

Chief security, Kevin Donahue - "It was an extraordinary gathering. ... it could run to 3,000 people. ... next year, we will have to close first the church, after it is vacant we will allow the Filipinos to come in, to settle them conveniently. "

Chief Usher, Andre Deliha - "I have been telling my wife how Filipinos gather ... all smiling, everybody singing. It's unbelievable! "

Soundmen: "Everybody in charge was nervous at first ... but we are the experts here ... it was a great homily I recorded everything and will give copies to the Cardinal and Msgr. Ritchie."

Deacon Edmundo: "With all young priests present, madre mia, es estupendo! and everyone with stipends." (When I met Loida Nicolas she commented - "Let's do it next year again.")

More…….

Fr. Richard Segraves (Cathedral staff): "What a beautiful image of the Lady. Where does the light come? The who image reflects light!" (Salamat Kuya Nick Libramonte/Jamaica San Lorenzo Ruiz Knights).

Cathedral Usher: "Oh, how this people give - the baskets are full ...and they keep on putting in money."

Nichael Weekes (head sacristan for 30 yrs. in the cathedral): "How did they organize this? Did you know before hand how this would happen. (Hindi niya alam na ako ang chair ng committee - kala niya hindi ako nagaalam ng malaking pangyayaring ito).

Sister Rita Cedrone (Italian, Cathedral staff): "Cute little kids with their own musical instruments. Just like angels!" (Thanks - Connecticut & Brooklyn group).

FPM 19th Anniversary

November 2007
By AAMedrano

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei in Manhattan celebrated its 19th anniversary of its foundation. The Filipino apostolate at Pompei started when the late Fr. Bobby Sison, the Founding Director was transferred to Manhattan from Long Island in the summer of 1987 to work for the Scalabrinian Fathers on their program for the migrants. With the approval and support of the then Provincial Superior, Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, c.s., Fr. Bobby continued his programs and activities for the Filipinos that he started in Long Island when he moved to Pompei Church. One year later, he launched the Filipino Pastoral Ministry on October 26, 1998 with the first Mother of Perpetual Help Novena and Mass thus the 19th year anniversary was celebrated last October 27, 2007 with friends, members and supporters of the program of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

The FPM continues to serve the Filipino community through its programs and activities under the leadership of Fr. Romy Montero, who also celebrated his third year as FPM Director.

We thank all the friends, supporters, benefactors, members, volunteers, Fr. John Massari, C.S. Bro. Michael and all the priests, who helped celebrate the Filipino Masses at Pompei through all the years, and to all of you who supported the FPM to reach the 19th year. We especially thank the Scalabrinian Fathers for their continued support to the Filipino community through the FPM and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica. Happy 19th Anniversary!

Founders Day

A Mass of Remembrance and Thanksgiving will be offered on November 18 during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass at Our Lady of Pompei Church and also on November 20, 7:30 P.M. at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica to commemorate the 4th death anniversary of Fr. Bobby Sison, Founding Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

A Testimonial To Fr. Bobby B. Sison . . .

by Gody Olaso

TODAY, WE ARE CELEBRATING FOUNDER’S DAY IN HONOR OF FR. BOBBY SISON WHO FOUNDED THE FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY HOUSED HERE AT THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF POMPEI’S PARISH. THRU THE MINISTRY HE INITIATED ALL THE ACTIVITIES AND HAPPENINGS HERE AND OUTSIDE THE WEST VILLAGE OF MANHATTAN WHEREIN WE ARE SITUATED.

WE START THE YEAR WITH THE FIESTA NG POONG NAZARENO ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF JANUARY. THEN, SAYAWAN SA VILLAGE FOLLOWS ON APRIL, A FUND-RAISING DANCE TO SUPPORT THE FORTHCOMING SANTA-CRUZAN SA VILLAGE COME MAY FOLLOWED BY THE FIESTA NG STO. NINO IN JUNE SPONSORED BY THE STO. NINO PRAYER GROUP OF NEW YORK. A WEEK LATER, THE BACLARAN SA VILLAGE FIESTA IN HONOR OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP. JUST LIKE BACK HOME IN THE PHILIPPINES, WE ALSO HAVE THE CURRENT HERMANO AND/OR HERMANA MAYOR HOSTING THESE EVENTS. THEN THE ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY DANCE CALLED LAKSAMBAYAN (LAKAS NG SUMASAMBANG BAYAN) IS HELD ON THE LAST SATURDAY OF OCTOBER. THE PROCEEDS OF THIS AFFAIR IS EARMARKED FOR ALL THE INCOMING EXPENDITURES OF THE MINISTRY. LAST OCTOBER 27 WAS OUR 19TH ANNIVERSARY. THE EVERY WEDNESDAY 6:30PM NOVENA TO OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP AND FILIPINO MASS AT 3PM EVERY SUNDAY ARE BOTH ONGOING ALL YEAR LONG. RIGHT AFTER THE MASS WE HAVE OUR REGULAR SUNDAY SOCIAL GATHERING LIKE THIS WHERE WE MEET OLD & NEW FRIENDS AND BECOME AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FPM FAMILY.

OUTSIDE THE PARISH, WE HAVE THE SAN LORENZO RUIZ CENTER IN JAMAICA WHERE THE SLRAA (SAN LORENZO RUIZ ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA) AND THE KNIGHTS OF SAN LORENZO RUIZ ARE HOUSED. AND BACK HOME IN THE

PHILIPPINES, OUR GOOD SAMARITAN FOUNDATION HELP SUPPORT OUR FUTURE PRIESTS IN THE SEMINARY. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT A PRIEST, JUST DROP BY OUR OFFICE AND TALK TO MSGR. ROMY MONTERO, OUR CURRENT DIRECTOR. ALSO, WE HAVE A CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR THE CURRENT YEAR AVAILABLE TO KEEP YOU INFORMED SO THAT YOU CAN SAVE THE DATE(S) IN YOUR CALENDAR.

THANK YOU FR. BOBBY FOR THE FILIPINO PASTORAL MINISTRY! WE LOVE YOU & HERE’S YOUR FAVORITE LINE DANCE - ‘’ONE STEP FORWARD’’ - DEDICATED TO YOU . . .

. . . GODY R. OLASO & THE OLP LINE DANCE GROUP.

SUNDAY/4PM, NOVEMBER 18, 2007.
(OLP Fr. Demo Hall, West Village, Manhattan)

40th Sacerdotal Anniversary to Priesthood

Rev. Joseph Fugolo, c.s. the Provincial Superior of the Eastern Province of the Missionaries of St. Charles, the Scalabrinian Fathers celebrated his 40th sacerdotal anniversary to priesthood with a Mass of Thanksgiving followed by a dinner dance sponsored by the Scalabrinian Lay Movement of Staten Island, New York. Friends, supporters and members of the different groups gathered at the Catering Hall of the Saint Charles Mission Center in Staten Island, NY on November 3, 2007 to honor Fr. Joseph. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, a member of the Scalabrinian Lay Movement was represented in the gathering.

A Mass of Thanksgiving was held at the chapel of the St. Charles Mission Center by Fr. Fugolo as main celebrant and several Scalabrinian priests from New York led by Rev. Walter Tonelotto,c.s, Msgr, Oscar Aquino and Msgr. Romy Montero represented the Filipino clergy as co-celebrants.

Fr. Joseph was born in Padua, Italy, on February 21, 1940 and after grammar school entered the Scalabrinian seminaries with a vocation to become a Scalabrini missionary. After graduating from college, he was sent by his superiors to study theology for four years at Saint Charles Seminary, Staten Island, New York. On May 30, 1966 he was ordained deacon by Archbishop of New York. He returned to his hometown and was ordained to priesthood on June 19, 1967. Ad Multos Annos, Fr. Joseph!

9 Fridays Novena Mass to Poon Hesus Nazareno

The nine Fridays novena Mass for the Poon Hesus Nazareno will start on Friday November 9 and every Friday thereafter at 6:30 P.M. in preparation for the feast day celebration on January 6, 2008.

Please come and join us very Friday at Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. Mr. & Mrs. Bobby and Nelia Villanueva are the incoming Hermano and Hermana Mayores. For more info: call the FPM office , Msgr. Romy Montero 212 727 0214.

SGsK Sayawan sa Village, November 11

The Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee in cooperation with the Filipino Pastoral Ministry of Our Lady of Pompei cordially invites you to a pot luck fund raising dance. An afternoon to evening of dancing and fun. All the proceeds will be used to defray the expenses for the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral event on December 1.

Date: November 11, 2007 Sunday 5:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M.
Where: Father Demo Hall, Our Lady of Pompei Church 25 Carmine Street NY 10014
Donation: $10.00
Directions to Our Lady of Pompei Church by Subway: Take A,B,C,D,E,F or ,V trains to West 4th , (Washington Square stop) Exit at 6th Avenue and turn right at Carmine St. the Church is at the corner of the Carmine and Bleecker Sts.

For more information, Please contact the FPM office c/o Fr. Romy (212) 727 0214 or Fr. Joseph Marabe (212) 753 2261 ext 251 or the Members of the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee

Simbang Gabi sa Katedral, December 1, 2007

“Simbang Gabi sa Katedral” signifies an evening as a prelude and the center point to usher the celebrations of this Simbang Gabi tradition in different parishes throughout the New York and tri-state area. The “Simbang Gabi” is a long treasured Philippine tradition originally a series of “dawn masses” for nine consecutive days before Christmas Day. Its liturgical significance emanates from the Season of Advent, being the time of spiritual preparation and purification to worthily welcome and receive the Child Jesus in our midst.

With deep respect for and great appreciation of this beautiful Filipino tradition and religiosity, the Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee of St. Patricks Cathedral in New York City has initiated the effort to extend this tradition by gathering all Filipino Catholics here in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut for a Eucharistic Celebration for one evening at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on Saturday, December 1, 2007 at 6:30 P.M. Rev. Msgr. Robert T. Ritchie, Rector of St. Patricks Cathedral and more than 50 Filipino priests concelebrating.

One of the highlights of this most anticipated event will be the procession of multi-colored and festive lighted lanterns or “parol” that would symbolize the coming of the LIGHT from darkness; guiding STAR that leads us to the MESSIAH.

To this Event will come civic and religious groups with an approximate number of 2,500 participants from all over New York and neighboring states. The event will culminate with a gathering and sharing of native delicacies and presentation of Filipino traditional folksongs, dances, rondalla outside the Cathedral at 51st street between Madison and Fifth Avenue.

On behalf of the “Simbang Gabi sa Katedral Steering Committee, we invite you and your family to celebrate the Simbang Gabi with all of us. Your support will greatly make the events meaningful, taking us back to our traditional ways of reaching and touching families far and wide. Let this beautiful celebration be an occasion for all of us to reach out to one another as one God’s family , thus creating a community of love and peace that the spirit of Christmas season brings.

For more info: please visit our website: www.simbanggabinyc.com

Contact person: Rev. Joseph G. Marabe, JCD Parochial Vicar of St. Patricks Cathedral and Over-all Chairperson. 212 753 2261 ext. 251 e-mail: majam49@hotmail.com

San Lorenzo Ruiz Center 4th Anniversary

The San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica, Queens will celebrate its 4th anniversary with a Mass of Thanksgiving on December 8, 2007 at 7:30 P.M. During the celebration, there will be the installation of candidates for the Knight of San Lorenzo Ruiz. Please come and join us for this event.

October Birthday

Happy Birthday to all the October birthday celebrators especially to - Cassandra Laurencio, Justine Villanueva, Aurea Vukov, Nancy Hombrebueno, Gody Olaso, Cora Guevara, Henry Medrano, Marilyn Castillo who celebrated their birthday during the Laksambayan Night of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. Happy Birthday and may you all receive the blessings from above.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2007 at 3:00 PM + HOLY MASS
Church of Our Lady of Pompei, between Bleecker & Carmine St's., NYC

More info : ( 347 ) 277 - 3487
Please join us on a special Mass with Fr. Marcelino Malana. A humble priest
from the Philippines who has 44 adopted " Special Needs " Filipino children mostly
saved from Abortion and Buried Alive!
Refreshment after the Mass also Exercized Line Dancing ( NO FEE )
Just come with your modest & comfortable clothes & footwear.
Bring a friend & any Filipino or American food is welcome! Thanks.

By AAMedrano
July 2007

FPM celebrates the 7th Independence Day BBQ Party

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry held the 7th annual July 4th celebration in the parking lot of the Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. The barbeque party was a very successful event despite the early afternoon shower and later the heavy rain. The guests took shelter on the big tent set up in the front yard of the office of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. There were lots of food, drinks and dessert brought by everybody. Line dancing, karaoke singing, games, movies for the kids or just enjoy socializing with friends were the activities of the day. Msgr. Romy welcomed his brother priests – Fr. Warlie Namo, Fr. Richard Tan, Fr. Gil Suaybagio, Fr. John Massari, cs, the Pastor of OLPompei, Fr.John McGuire Pastor of St. Joseph Church and Fr. Carlo de Lazzare,cs visiting priest from Milano, Italy who enjoyed the Filipino food and the karaoke singing.

Thank you to the Papa family led by Boni for setting up the big tent and to the designated cooks Bobby Villanueva and Gody Olaso who manned the two charcoal grill. Thank you to all of you for making our 7th annual FPM Barbeque Party a big success. We will see you again next year. Happy Birthday, America.

Santo Nino Fiesta

sgr. Romy Montero was pleased with the outcome of all the activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. He congratulated the Hermana Mayor of the Santo Nino Fiesta Noemi Alfaro and the members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York for hosting the successful celebration. The Santo Nino fiesta was held on Fathers Day June 17, Sunday at Our Lady of Pompei Church.

Msgr. Romy Montero was the main celebrant of the Mass and Fr. Warlito Namo was the homilist. The celebration included the installation of the Santo Nino Hermanito – Michael Alfaro, the son of the Hermana Mayor who helped his Mom early on in the house to house transfer of the image of Santo Nino. Nelia Cloma and Florence Sikorsky were also inducted as assistant coordinators of the SPG/NY – Queens chapter.

All fathers present were given special Fathers Day blessings and flowers to show the appreciation to them. Part of the Program after Mass integrated in the Santo Nino Fiesta celebration were songs and dances to honor the fathers.

The traditional blessing of the Santo Nino images, blessing of the children, the Santo Nino Sinulog dance were part of the Santo Nino fiesta celebration.

At the reception, there were lots of food – three lechon and different Filipino delicacies. Gody Olaso prepared the program for the young and adults - there were singing and folk dances by the Paaralang Pinoy – performed by the kids from Our Lady of Pompei, ballroom dancing by Kristianne Castillo and Jeremy Salvador, games for the kids. Special dances performed by the fathers brought the house down. There were games and “pabitin” for the fathers, the prizes courtesy of the Hermana Mayor. Tsang also did a solo dance. And of course line dancing followed after the program.

Congratulations to the coordinators and members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens and thank you for your continued support…..Mabuhay SANTO NINO!

Parapol ni Nino winners

The winners in the 13th Annual Parapol ni Nino drawn during the Santo Nino Fiesta were as follows: First Prize – 32 Inch Flat Screen TV – Noemi Alfaro , being generous and helpful as she is, donated the TV to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. The 2nd prize 2 GB“Nano” I-Pod was won by Josie Bueno – who also donated the prize and gave it Msgr. Romy Montero. The 3rd prize was won by Dora Tizon, a Katbaloganon, USA member. There were consolation prizes of T-shirts and Line dancing CDs. Congratulations to the winners and thank for your generosity.

19th Annual Baclaran sa Village

Congratulations to Cora del Mar, Hermana Mayor of the 19th Annual celebration of the feast day in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help for the successful celebration. Indeed, patience and hard work paid off. The celebrations held on June 20 Wednesday at Our Lady of Pompei Church.

Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD was the main celebrant of the Mass with Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Warlie Namo concelebrating. The music was provided by Rey Lauron and the members of the Our Lady of Pompei Filipino Choir. The Eucharistic Vigil and reciting of the Rosary and the Novena to our Mother of Perpetual Help preceded the celebration of the Mass.

Cora del Mar was installed as the Hermana Mayor by Msgr. Romy Montero and received the medal of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and the responsibility of coordinating the activities related to the Baclaran sa Village and the weekly novena.

The celebration will not be complete without the Filipino food. There were two lechons and all the Filipino food and desserts you could ask for. The fiesta was held on Wednesday, and a work day but in spite of that many guests stayed late for the line dancing and some fun. Thank you to all who came and participated in this big event and also to all the donors and sponsors. Thank you to the past hermana mayores who helped in the preparation especially to Glen Sakdalan, Janet Rivera and Cory Reyes We will see you again in our 20th anniversary of the Baclaran sa Village on June 25, 2008.

26th Annual San Lorenzo Ruiz Fiesta and the Launching of the Devotion to Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini

On September 30, the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) will celebrate its 26th annual celebration of the Feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz. It will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica Queens.

The celebration will also include the launching of the prayer movement for the Canonization of the Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini, the father of the Migrants, and founder of the Scalabrinian Fathers Congregation. The image of the Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini will be enshrined at the patio of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center. After the formal launching, the prayers to BJB Scalabrini will be included in the weekly prayer meetings held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica. To learn more about Blessed J.B. Scalabrini, workshops will be held at the SLRCenter.

The SLRAA, a lay organization formally became a member of the Scalabrinian Lay Movement (SLM) this year. In line with the mission of the SLM to provide services by creating programs and activities to help the migrants, the SLRAA will integrate its established religious and humanitarian programs for the Filipinos. It will continue to provide a venue for the Filipino migrants to practice their Catholic faith - to foster appreciation of the Filipino culture and religious traditions through devotions.

PAFCOM Indepedence day Parade.

Congratulations to Alice N. Francisco, MD as Grand Marshal of the PAFCOM Independence day parade in Jersey City last June 24, 2007. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) – Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz and the ladies joined her in the parade. The Knights wore their barong tagalog and the ladies were dressed in Maria Clara. The Grand Marshal herself wore a Maria Clara inspired top and the hand painted skirt of the folklore scenes of Filipino celebrations. Her outfit attracted a lot attention which was especially made for her by Nick Libramonte.

Happy Birthday and Our Best Wishes to Aida Leano who will be moving to Rome, Italy next month with her employer. We will all miss your friendship. Take Care and Good Luck!

In a sad note, Our Condolences to the family of Ed Raymundo, a dedicated devotee of Our Mother of Perpetual Help who passed away on July 1. He brought flowers every Wednesday and never missed the novena at Our Lady of Pompei church except when he was in the hospital. To his wife, Lucy and children our prayers and condolences from the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

August 18 Picnic Trip to Lake George

Come and join the Picnic Trip to Lake George on Saturday, August 18, 2007. For details and more information, please contact Noemi Alfaro, the coordinator of SPG/NY – Queens Chapter and coordinator of the picnic trip.

St. Bartholomew Novena

The nine days Novena Mass in honor of St. Batholomew continues at Our Lady of Pompei every Saturday until July 28 at 6:30 P.M. sponsored by Katbaloganon, USA. This year’s hermana mayor , Tessie Penaranda coordinates the weekly novena and the activities for the coming fiesta celebration on August 4. The annual dinner dance prior to the fiesta will be held on August 3 at the Sheraton Woodbridge, New Jersey. Sam Maravilla is the current president of the Katbaloganon, USA .

Our Lady of Nativity

The triduum in honor of the Our Lady of Nativity, the patroness of Calbayog, Samar will start on August 12 to 26 at Our Lady of Pompei Church during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass. The Feast day celebration will be held on Saturday ,September 1. For more information will contact this year’s Hermana Mayor, Norma Bernate.

 

June 2007 /AAMedrano

17th Annual Santakrusan sa Village

Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan was filled with devotees for the 17th annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. It was another very successful in the village. Our congratulations to the Hermana Mayor - Josie Bueno and to all who contributed their time and effort to make the event successful.

Santakrusan commemorates the finding of the True Cross by the Empress Elena, and pays tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a popular depiction and narration in the form of procession of women who played an important role in the salvation history of the Old and New Testament. Characters from the bible and the litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary are represented by the "Sagalas" who carry symbols and wear gowns and crowns indicating royalty and influence. The Flores de Mayo is a devotion to pray the Holy Rosary daily in May and offer flowers to the Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It culminates in the procession of "sagalas" depicting the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The crowning of the Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the highlight of the celebration followed by the procession in the surrounding streets of the church. Katherine Valles, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary offered the rosary. The Reina Elena, Mary Joy Ramos putting the crown to the Holy Infant Jesus. The Constantine, Miggy Laforteza carried the crown of the Santo Nino. Ma. Teresa Justine Villanueva, the Reyna delas Flores did the honor of the crowning the statue of Virgin Mary with the "Ave Maria" rendition in Violin played by Samantha and Alyssa Lujares in violin and JR Velasquez played the cello. After the crowning, all the children, flower boys and girls, angels lined up to the altar to offer flowers.

After the long procession in the surrounding streets of Our Lady of Pompei, everybody converged outside the church for the final blessing and group picture.

We have many Sagalas and children that participated in the Santakrusan this year. We thank the Sagala Coordinators , Hermie Valles and Chit Laurecio for their great effort.

Philippine Independence Day Parade

The Sinulog Group of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York at Our Lady Pompei Church participated in the Philippine Independence Day Parade (PIDC). The members were excited to be part of this annual event for the Filipinos some first timers and those who have experienced before were proud to represent the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. Connie Christian, the new leader of the group led the many members wearing the native Filipino patadyong in the Sinulog Dance. Many thanks to MaryAnn Menendez, who conducted the dance practice in preparation for this big event. They were all happy that the practice paid off . Congratulations to all of you!

The SLRAA also joined the PIDC Parade with their float promoting the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz. The Knights wore Barong Tagalog with their medals and the Rosary. The Ladies wore Maria Clara with matching umbrellas marching in front of the SLRAA float. Some of the Knights knelt down in prayer facing the image of San Lorenzo with their rosary on hand in the float. Msgr. Romy Montero wearing the San Lorenzo Ruiz commemorative vestment was also in the float.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2007 at 3:00 PM + HOLY MASS
Church of Our Lady of Pompei, between Bleecker & Carmine St's., NYC

More info : ( 347 ) 277 - 3487
Please join us on a special Mass with Fr. Marcelino Malana. A humble priest
from the Philippines who has 44 adopted " Special Needs " Filipino children mostly
saved from Abortion and Buried Alive!
Refreshment after the Mass also Exercized Line Dancing ( NO FEE )
Just come with your modest & comfortable clothes & footwear.
Bring a friend & any Filipino or American food is welcome! Thanks.

By AAMedrano
July 2007

FPM celebrates the 7th Independence Day BBQ Party

The Filipino Pastoral Ministry held the 7th annual July 4th celebration in the parking lot of the Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan. The barbeque party was a very successful event despite the early afternoon shower and later the heavy rain. The guests took shelter on the big tent set up in the front yard of the office of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. There were lots of food, drinks and dessert brought by everybody. Line dancing, karaoke singing, games, movies for the kids or just enjoy socializing with friends were the activities of the day. Msgr. Romy welcomed his brother priests – Fr. Warlie Namo, Fr. Richard Tan, Fr. Gil Suaybagio, Fr. John Massari, cs, the Pastor of OLPompei, Fr.John McGuire Pastor of St. Joseph Church and Fr. Carlo de Lazzare,cs visiting priest from Milano, Italy who enjoyed the Filipino food and the karaoke singing.

Thank you to the Papa family led by Boni for setting up the big tent and to the designated cooks Bobby Villanueva and Gody Olaso who manned the two charcoal grill. Thank you to all of you for making our 7th annual FPM Barbeque Party a big success. We will see you again next year. Happy Birthday, America.

Santo Nino Fiesta

sgr. Romy Montero was pleased with the outcome of all the activities of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. He congratulated the Hermana Mayor of the Santo Nino Fiesta Noemi Alfaro and the members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York for hosting the successful celebration. The Santo Nino fiesta was held on Fathers Day June 17, Sunday at Our Lady of Pompei Church.

Msgr. Romy Montero was the main celebrant of the Mass and Fr. Warlito Namo was the homilist. The celebration included the installation of the Santo Nino Hermanito – Michael Alfaro, the son of the Hermana Mayor who helped his Mom early on in the house to house transfer of the image of Santo Nino. Nelia Cloma and Florence Sikorsky were also inducted as assistant coordinators of the SPG/NY – Queens chapter.

All fathers present were given special Fathers Day blessings and flowers to show the appreciation to them. Part of the Program after Mass integrated in the Santo Nino Fiesta celebration were songs and dances to honor the fathers.

The traditional blessing of the Santo Nino images, blessing of the children, the Santo Nino Sinulog dance were part of the Santo Nino fiesta celebration.

At the reception, there were lots of food – three lechon and different Filipino delicacies. Gody Olaso prepared the program for the young and adults - there were singing and folk dances by the Paaralang Pinoy – performed by the kids from Our Lady of Pompei, ballroom dancing by Kristianne Castillo and Jeremy Salvador, games for the kids. Special dances performed by the fathers brought the house down. There were games and “pabitin” for the fathers, the prizes courtesy of the Hermana Mayor. Tsang also did a solo dance. And of course line dancing followed after the program.

Congratulations to the coordinators and members of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York – Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens and thank you for your continued support…..Mabuhay SANTO NINO!

Parapol ni Nino winners

The winners in the 13th Annual Parapol ni Nino drawn during the Santo Nino Fiesta were as follows: First Prize – 32 Inch Flat Screen TV – Noemi Alfaro , being generous and helpful as she is, donated the TV to the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. The 2nd prize 2 GB“Nano” I-Pod was won by Josie Bueno – who also donated the prize and gave it Msgr. Romy Montero. The 3rd prize was won by Dora Tizon, a Katbaloganon, USA member. There were consolation prizes of T-shirts and Line dancing CDs. Congratulations to the winners and thank for your generosity.

19th Annual Baclaran sa Village

Congratulations to Cora del Mar, Hermana Mayor of the 19th Annual celebration of the feast day in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help for the successful celebration. Indeed, patience and hard work paid off. The celebrations held on June 20 Wednesday at Our Lady of Pompei Church.

Fr. Joseph Marabe, JCD was the main celebrant of the Mass with Msgr. Romy Montero and Fr. Warlie Namo concelebrating. The music was provided by Rey Lauron and the members of the Our Lady of Pompei Filipino Choir. The Eucharistic Vigil and reciting of the Rosary and the Novena to our Mother of Perpetual Help preceded the celebration of the Mass.

Cora del Mar was installed as the Hermana Mayor by Msgr. Romy Montero and received the medal of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and the responsibility of coordinating the activities related to the Baclaran sa Village and the weekly novena.

The celebration will not be complete without the Filipino food. There were two lechons and all the Filipino food and desserts you could ask for. The fiesta was held on Wednesday, and a work day but in spite of that many guests stayed late for the line dancing and some fun. Thank you to all who came and participated in this big event and also to all the donors and sponsors. Thank you to the past hermana mayores who helped in the preparation especially to Glen Sakdalan, Janet Rivera and Cory Reyes We will see you again in our 20th anniversary of the Baclaran sa Village on June 25, 2008.

26th Annual San Lorenzo Ruiz Fiesta and the Launching of the Devotion to Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini

On September 30, the San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) will celebrate its 26th annual celebration of the Feast day of San Lorenzo Ruiz. It will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Jamaica Queens.

The celebration will also include the launching of the prayer movement for the Canonization of the Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini, the father of the Migrants, and founder of the Scalabrinian Fathers Congregation. The image of the Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini will be enshrined at the patio of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center. After the formal launching, the prayers to BJB Scalabrini will be included in the weekly prayer meetings held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Center in Jamaica. To learn more about Blessed J.B. Scalabrini, workshops will be held at the SLRCenter.

The SLRAA, a lay organization formally became a member of the Scalabrinian Lay Movement (SLM) this year. In line with the mission of the SLM to provide services by creating programs and activities to help the migrants, the SLRAA will integrate its established religious and humanitarian programs for the Filipinos. It will continue to provide a venue for the Filipino migrants to practice their Catholic faith - to foster appreciation of the Filipino culture and religious traditions through devotions.

PAFCOM Indepedence day Parade.

Congratulations to Alice N. Francisco, MD as Grand Marshal of the PAFCOM Independence day parade in Jersey City last June 24, 2007. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Association of America, Inc. (SLRAA) – Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz and the ladies joined her in the parade. The Knights wore their barong tagalog and the ladies were dressed in Maria Clara. The Grand Marshal herself wore a Maria Clara inspired top and the hand painted skirt of the folklore scenes of Filipino celebrations. Her outfit attracted a lot attention which was especially made for her by Nick Libramonte.

Happy Birthday and Our Best Wishes to Aida Leano who will be moving to Rome, Italy next month with her employer. We will all miss your friendship. Take Care and Good Luck!

In a sad note, Our Condolences to the family of Ed Raymundo, a dedicated devotee of Our Mother of Perpetual Help who passed away on July 1. He brought flowers every Wednesday and never missed the novena at Our Lady of Pompei church except when he was in the hospital. To his wife, Lucy and children our prayers and condolences from the Filipino Pastoral Ministry.

August 18 Picnic Trip to Lake George

Come and join the Picnic Trip to Lake George on Saturday, August 18, 2007. For details and more information, please contact Noemi Alfaro, the coordinator of SPG/NY – Queens Chapter and coordinator of the picnic trip.

St. Bartholomew Novena

The nine days Novena Mass in honor of St. Batholomew continues at Our Lady of Pompei every Saturday until July 28 at 6:30 P.M. sponsored by Katbaloganon, USA. This year’s hermana mayor , Tessie Penaranda coordinates the weekly novena and the activities for the coming fiesta celebration on August 4. The annual dinner dance prior to the fiesta will be held on August 3 at the Sheraton Woodbridge, New Jersey. Sam Maravilla is the current president of the Katbaloganon, USA .

Our Lady of Nativity

The triduum in honor of the Our Lady of Nativity, the patroness of Calbayog, Samar will start on August 12 to 26 at Our Lady of Pompei Church during the 3:00 P.M. Filipino Mass. The Feast day celebration will be held on Saturday ,September 1. For more information will contact this year’s Hermana Mayor, Norma Bernate.

 

June 2007 /AAMedrano

17th Annual Santakrusan sa Village

Our Lady of Pompei Church in Manhattan was filled with devotees for the 17th annual Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village hosted by the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. It was another very successful in the village. Our congratulations to the Hermana Mayor - Josie Bueno and to all who contributed their time and effort to make the event successful.

Santakrusan commemorates the finding of the True Cross by the Empress Elena, and pays tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a popular depiction and narration in the form of procession of women who played an important role in the salvation history of the Old and New Testament. Characters from the bible and the litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary are represented by the "Sagalas" who carry symbols and wear gowns and crowns indicating royalty and influence. The Flores de Mayo is a devotion to pray the Holy Rosary daily in May and offer flowers to the Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It culminates in the procession of "sagalas" depicting the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The crowning of the Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the highlight of the celebration followed by the procession in the surrounding streets of the church. Katherine Valles, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary offered the rosary. The Reina Elena, Mary Joy Ramos putting the crown to the Holy Infant Jesus. The Constantine, Miggy Laforteza carried the crown of the Santo Nino. Ma. Teresa Justine Villanueva, the Reyna delas Flores did the honor of the crowning the statue of Virgin Mary with the "Ave Maria" rendition in Violin played by Samantha and Alyssa Lujares in violin and JR Velasquez played the cello. After the crowning, all the children, flower boys and girls, angels lined up to the altar to offer flowers.

After the long procession in the surrounding streets of Our Lady of Pompei, everybody converged outside the church for the final blessing and group picture.

We have many Sagalas and children that participated in the Santakrusan this year. We thank the Sagala Coordinators , Hermie Valles and Chit Laurecio for their great effort.

Philippine Independence Day Parade

The Sinulog Group of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York at Our Lady Pompei Church participated in the Philippine Independence Day Parade (PIDC). The members were excited to be part of this annual event for the Filipinos some first timers and those who have experienced before were proud to represent the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. Connie Christian, the new leader of the group led the many members wearing the native Filipino patadyong in the Sinulog Dance. Many thanks to MaryAnn Menendez, who conducted the dance practice in preparation for this big event. They were all happy that the practice paid off . Congratulations to all of you!

The SLRAA also joined the PIDC Parade with their float promoting the Knights of San Lorenzo Ruiz. The Knights wore Barong Tagalog with their medals and the Rosary. The Ladies wore Maria Clara with matching umbrellas marching in front of the SLRAA float. Some of the Knights knelt down in prayer facing the image of San Lorenzo with their rosary on hand in the float. Msgr. Romy Montero wearing the San Lorenzo Ruiz commemorative vestment was also in the float.

EWTN Mass and Recollection at Pompei

Fr. Mark Mary Cristina, M.F.V.A. celebrated the solemn Mass at Our Lady of Pompei on June 3. The Mass was in celebrated in English. Msgr. Romy Montero, Director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry concelebrated in the Mass.

The First Reading in Tagalog was read by Freddie Salvador. Sally Alonso sang the Responsorial Psalm and Mel Leister read the Second Reading in English. The Prayer of the Faithful was recited in Italian, Spanish, English, Tagalog, French, Polish and Chinese by the representative of each group.

The Mass songs were in English, Tagalog and Latin led by Sally Alonso and Ronald Rameau. Rey Lauron. FPM Pompei Music Director and Henrick Kolasa provided the music.

The Novena to Santo Nino was recited before the final blessing by Zeny Papa of the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York - Queens chapter.

Fellowship and Spiritual Talk conducted by Fr. Mark Mary Cristina, M.F.V.A. followed after the Mass at the OLP Fr. Demo Hall.

24th Annual Santo Nino Fiesta on June 17

Come and join us for another solemn celebration of the Mass and the Pistang Pilipino sa Village on June 17, 2007 in honor of Santo Nino. There will be Mass, Blessing of Children, Blessing of Fathers, Transfer of Santo Nino, Blessing of Santo Nino images and the Pistang Pilipino - Song and Dances and Surprises, raffle drawing, Filipino delicacies.

Sponsored by the Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York (SPG/NY) -Queens, Manhattan Brooklyn and Bronx chapters. This year's host of the Santo Nino Fiesta is the Queens chapter headed by Noemi Alfaro, the coordinator and hermana mayor.

19th Annual Baclaran sa Village on June 20

Our Lady of Pompei will celebrate the 19th annual Fiesta of Our Mother of Perpetual Help on June 20. The Mass will start at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday followed by the fellowship at the Fr. Demo Hall. Cora del Mar , this year's Hermana Mayor, is inviting you all to come and participate in the celebration.

Novena to St. Bartholomew, Patron Saint of Catbalogan

The Katbaloganon, USA will start the annual nine days novena in honor of St. Bartholomew on June 9 at Our Lady of Pompei church in Manhattan. Please come and join the weekly devotion at 6:30 P.M. Saturday and every Saturday thereafter until the feast day celebration.

PARTICIPANTS IN THE 17TH ANNUAL SANTAKRUSAN SA VILLAGE AT POMPEI

Altar Boys: Lemuel Gomez,Kevin Villanueva, Jeremy Salvador, Lead Marshal - Gody Olaso, Roving Marshals - Ed Pascual, Cely Medrano, Chit Laurencio Members - Marilyn Castillo, Dayday Unarosa, Zeny Papa, Nelia Villanueva, Sally Alonso, Aida Leano, Helen Macatulad, Yoly Reyes, Hermie Valles, Evelyn Gomez, Nora Velasquez , Aida Valdeviezo, Mimi Rodriguez, Ging Papa, Gina Valenzuela, Tess Salvador, Boots Nepomuceno, Medina Reyes, Nanding Castillo.

The Red Marching Band of New Jersey: USA Flag Bearer - Stephen Daarol; Philippine Flag Bearer - Norma de Jesus; FPM Laksambayan Banner - Bearer: Helen Macatulad SPG-NY Banner Bearer- Maria de Jesus

SANTO NIÑO SPG/NY SINULOG : Leader - Connie Christian, Assistant - MaryAnn Menendez, Sinulog Drummer - John John Dante, Sinulog Members - Nelia Cl oma, Cora del Mar, Rose Fuentes, Nene Dante, Nori Claveria,Andrea Rivera, Rose Tabing, Maxi Chavez, Sally Pacheco, Novel, Josie Olalo, Letty Dolan, Florence Sikorskii, Noemi Alfaro, Miami Panganiban, Cora Lopez, Babes Rivera, Malou, Janet Gorrecita, Rosa Palma, Rosita Enad, Mas, Marieta delaCruz, Mila Javier, Ding Rivera, Amy, Nelly Atienza, Gloria Cabati, Lulu Espina, Zena Ferrer.

The Sagalas and their Escorts: Queen of Nations- Philippines Kristin Quidit, E scort - Xegfred Quidit; USA - Dierdre Marie Levy, Escort - Armand Gayas, Morning Star - Kristine Anne Batac, Escort - Keith Estiller; Mystical Rose - Samantha Herrera, Escort - Benedict Joson; Divine Shepherd- Katheren Shiela Russel Pomero, Escort - Roseanne Karl Pomero; Gate of Heaven - Ashley Laurencio, Escort - Jojo Sahni; Tower of Ivory - Kristianne Castillo, Escort: Matthew Manuel; House of Gold - Ginger Chavez, Escort : Reggie Avelino; Cause of our Joy -Janelle Avelino; Escort - Gabriel Stephen Marquez; Mirror of Justice - Emily Aponte, Escort - John Ray Rodio; Vessel of Honor - Juliana Gonzales, Escort - Samuel Sid Peusca; Spiritual Vessel -Jenny Malacapay, Escort - Gerald Lingad; Virtues : FAITH - Marjorie Ann Ramirez, Escort: Philippe Ramirez; HOPE - Kimberly Ann Sarmiento, Escort: Jan Sarmiento; CHARITY - Murlyn Manuel, Escort: Eduardo Romero; Barangay Sang Birhen - Genevieve Amuncio; Help of Christians -Christline Fernandez, Escort - Kevin Tolentino; Ark of the Covenant - Daniela Forman, Escort - Michael Tabuzo; Health of the Sick - Carmela Sikoski, Escort - Mitchell Quilog.

Queen of Confessors- Gertrude F. Limbag, Escort: Randal Bernandes; Queen of Mercy - Samantha Velasquez, Escort - Dante Velasquez, Jr.; Queen of Martyrs - Rina Eliza Solis, Escort: Glenn Dioso; Queen of Prophets - Jennifer Paras, Escort: Michael Alfaro; Queen of Patriachs- Katrina Penaflor, Escort: Ken Sablande; Queen of Apostles - Josephine Thomas, Escort - John Fisher; Queen of all Saints- Flavia Guzman, Escort: Franklin Ramos; Queen of Peace- Mary Angel Madriaga, Escort: Ben Balahadia, Queen of Angels - Stephanie Janelle Valles, Escort -Paul Valles.

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary - Katherine J. Valles, Escort - Jeremy Forman, Rosary Bearer: Maria Cassandra Cloma. Reyna de las Flores - Ma. Teresa Justine Villanueva, Escort- Mark Alexander Castillo, Flower Girl - Katherine Laurencio. Constantino - Miggy Laforteza, Reyna Elena - Mary Joy Ramos, Escort - Luis Enrique Luyo

ANGELS - Catherine Espina , Margaret Galarita, Daniela Dinglasan, Cresnina Magpantay, Charlene Gayas, Carmina Escobar, Kaitlin Batac, Riya Nagpal, Jade Quilatio, Camille Mendoza, Kara Galvez, Isabel Kahulis.

AVE MARIA - Bea Tolentino, Monet Middleton, Angela Perez , Angelina Calderon, Abigail Laforteza, Mary Grace, Samantha Chavez, Alyssa Lujares

Big Rosary Bearers - Gabriel Papa , John Marlo Medalla, Philip Bolano, Louie Martin Paraguay, BJ Dioso, Miguel Laforteza, Joshua Medalla, Joseph Middleton

FLOWER GIRLS and BOYS - Monique Parshi, Precious Perez , Alexandra Dimagmaliw, Roxanne Pagnas,Ruzette Solis, Annica Borac, Kathrianne Muchuelas, Rheanna Muchuelas , Michaela Marquez, Bea Laforteza, Alexis Lujares, Farah Chamorro, Ma. Theresa Fernandez, Katrina Batac, Lilia Wiesburg, Nicole Richardson, Mila Swagadi, Stephanie Garner, Mariela Balaroy, Dylan Palaganas, Andrew Calderon, Kenneth Lorovico, Shiean Mercado, Vince Mercado, Alica Rodio, Anica Joy Guevarra, Vince Rodio, Amelia Rae Rodio, Vilma Guaman, Carolyna Guaman, Florence Allen Valeva, John Rivera, Jefferson Valeva ,Samantha Joy Baler, Ariana Bustos, Jilliane Prego, Jefferson Guaman.

Santakrusan sa Village Hermana Mayor 2007 - Josie Bueno; Flores de Mayo Hermanitos & Hermanitas : May 6 - Jerrica Bueno & Justin Bueno; May 13 - Thea Marcelo & Benjamin Marcelo; May 20 - Jasmine Salvador & Adam Rodriguez; May 27 - KC Lorovico & Mark Calaro. Our Lady of Pompei Three Societies; The Clergy; The Blessed Virgin Mary - Bearers: Boni Papa, Dan Papa, Chito Tabing, Nestor Nepomuceno, Freddie Salvador, Floro Gomez; Rosary Leader - Nancy Hombrebueno; Devotees ; Santo Nino Prayer Groups of New York

S P O N S O R S of the 2007 Flores de Mayo and Santakrusan sa Village

Josie Bueno, Nanding & Marilyn Castillo, Bobby & Nelia Villanueva, Alma Cruz & Family, Ramon & Chit

Laurencio, Noemi Alfaro & Family, Henry & Cely Medrano, Nelia Cloma & Family, Aida Valdeviezo,

Connie Christian & Family, Sally Alonso, Boni & Zeny Papa & Family, Ed Pascual, Gody Olaso, Nancy & Salome

Hombrebueno, Dan & Ging Papa, Letty Dolan, Medina Reyes, Josie Olalo, Tessie Gayas & Family, Nora & Dante

Velasquez, Gloria Cabati, Hermie Valles & Family, Marieta de la Cruz, Nita Nagales, Normita, Purificacion Rivera,

Marilou Quidit, Florante & Elena Valeva, Norma de Jesus, Racquel & Ryan Guevarra, Rowena & James Estrella,

Lucky & Rosale Damiao, Babes Rivera, Cora Lopez, Aileen & Archie Orodio, Precy & Cesar Lescano, Cora del

Mar, Gladys Alfaro, Jessica Manno, Evaliante Panganiban.

Santo Nino Sponsors: Melba Castillo, Nanding Castillo, Peter & Leila Inez, Lina Matthews, Vern & Nora

Caragan, Genie Acbo & Norma Bernate, Normita , Alma Cruz & Family.

FLORES DE MAYO SANTAKRUSAN SA VILLAGE COMMITEE 2007

Hermana Mayor- Josie Bueno, Sagala Coordinators - Hermie Valles & Chit Laurencio,

Crowning Ceremony Coordinator - Cely Medrano, Flower Offering Coordinators- Josie Bueno, Conchita Laurencio,

Zeny Papa; Presentation of Sagalas - Gody Olaso, Reception - SPG-NYCoordinators - Manhattan - Josie Bueno/ Marilyn

Castillo/Aida Valdeviezo Brooklyn- Norma de Jesus, Queens - Noemi Alfaro / Nelia Cloma/Zeny Papa, Bronx - Alma Cruz.

Liturgy - Ed A. Pascual, Mass and Song Leaders- Sally H. Alonso, Nancy Hombrebueno, Commentator - Helen Macatulad,

Eucharistic Ministers - Bobby & Nelia Villanueva, Araceli A. Medrano Music - Reynaldo Lauron, OLP Filipino Choir,

Flowers & Arts - Dada Gurtiza, Misallete - AA Medrano, Nancy Hombrebueno, Photographers - Hilarion A. Medrano,

Videographers - Bobby Villanueva, Ramon Laurencio; Sinulog Coordinators - Connie Christian, MaryAnn Menendez;

Services - Boni Papa; Ways & Means - Nanding Castillo/ Ramon Laurencio; Director - Msgr. Romulo Montero

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