Binondo Church

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

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Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

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Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

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Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

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Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

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Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)

 

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23. Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim. In his …

Binondo Church commemorates 29th anniversary as minor basilica Read More »

Binondo Church

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25.

The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn and festive despite the limited number of attendees due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bishop Pabillo recognized the contribution of the parish as a reason for its inclusion in the list of pilgrim churches for the quincentennial of the arrival of our faith.

“One of the places that the faith has really matured is here in Binondo where you have the fruit of it – the first saint of the Philippines, San Lorenzo Ruiz. Galling po siya dito sa inyo, ito po yung bunga ng pananampalataya ng mga taga-Binondo,” the apostolic administrator said.

The 425-year-old church has been a part of the life of the country’s protomartyr as he served here as an altar boy and sacristan and worked as an Escribano.

He encouraged everyone to find the opportunity to pass through the Holy Door and visit the church to get plenary indulgence so that our God forgives our sins and to forgive the damages that our sins have brought about.

Contemplating on Jesus as a Good Shepherd, Pabillo reminded everyone to take Him “as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.”

He also asked for prayers to the Good Shepherd to give us more good leaders for our church and our country.

Known officially as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Parish of the Most Holy Rosary), Binondo Church was established in 1596 and declared as “basilica minore” in honor of the first Filipino saint by His Holiness Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church)

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Panillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila delivers his homily during Mass after he opens the Jubilee Door of Binondo Church on April 25, 2021. | Photo by Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church

 

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Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo

This year’s Good Shepherd Sunday has been a special and historic one for Binondo Church as His Excellency, the Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD opened its Jubilee Door to officially start its celebration of the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines last April 25. The opening rite and the Eucharistic Celebration remained solemn …

Pray to God to give us good leaders, says Bishop Pabillo Read More »

Binondo Church

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching can help.

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should the leaders do to the people. Maliwanag sa ating ebanghelyo ngayon na inilalarawan ni Jesus na siya ay pastol, at hindi lang pastol, siya ay mabuting pastol. As believers, let us take Jesus as a model of what a leader should be, whether our religious leaders or our government leaders.

Paano masasabi na si Jesus ay mabuting pastol? Una , inaaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. Hindi siya isang taong upahan na ang mahalaga sa kanya ay ang sahod, kung ano ang makukuha niya.  Kaya kung may panganib, agad-agad iniiwan ang tupa. Ayaw niyang mapahamak siya. Hindi niya itataya ang kanyang sarili para lang sa tupa. Iba si Jesus. Sabi niya na iaalay niya ang kanyang sarili alang-alang sa kanyang tupa. At ginawa nga niya ito. Inalay niya ang kanyang buhay para sa atin. “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed.” (Is 53:5) Ang pag-aalay na ito ay sinasariwa natin tuwing misa. Naririnig natin ang sinasabi ni Jesus: “Ito ang aking katawan para sa inyo….Ito ang kalis ng aking dugo na ibubuhos para sa inyo.”

Pangalawa, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi kilala niya ang kanyang tupa at kilala din siya ng kanyang tupa. Kaya nga ang Diyos ay naging tao upang ang lahat ng ating karanasan bilang tao ay maranasan din niya. He was tempted in all ways as we are. He underwent human suffering and even suffered more than most of us do. Jesus is no stranger to our human lot. At kilala din natin siya. Sinabi niya na ang lahat ng narinig niya sa Ama ay pinaabot na niya sa atin, kasi hindi niya tayo tinuturing na alipin kundi mga kaibigan. At binigay pa sa atin ang kanyang Banal na Espiritu upang ipaalaala sa atin ang lahat ng sinabi niya at dalhin tayo sa kabuuan ng pag-unawa ng kanyang mga salita. There is total transparency between the shepherd and his flock.

Pangatlo, si Jesus ay mabuting pastol kasi hangad niya, at kumikilos siya, upang mapasama ang iba sa kanyang kawan. Naniniwala siya na marami pa ang gustong makarinig ng kanyang salita so that there will be one flock under one shepherd. So he is one who brings unity among all. Kaya sinabi ni San Pablo:  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

Si Jesus ang modelo ng leadership. Ganito ba ang ating mga leaders – sa simbahan man, sa gobyerno, sa business o sa ating mga organisasyon? Ang leader ba natin ay may malasakit sa pinamumunuan niya at tinataya ang kanyang sarili para sa nasasakupan? Noong napansin ni Jesus na pinagdedebatihan ng mga alagad niya kung sino ang mas dakila sa kanila, maliwanag ang kanyang sinabi: “Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves.” (Lk. 22:26-27)

Pero iba yata ang nangyayari. Pinag-aawayan ang posisyon kasi mas malaki ang  makukuha nila dito. Kaya nga ayaw bitawan ang pork barrel. Ngayong malapit na ang election usisain natin ang mga namumuno sa atin. Nakinabang ba sila sa kanilang posisyon? Mas yumaman ba sila sa kanilang tungkulin? Kaya nga ayaw nila magbitiw sa kanilang posisyon at kapit tuko sila dito na pati ang kanilang pamilya ay pinapaluklok nila. Hindi naman dahil sa gusto nilang maglingkod, kundi ayaw mawala ang kanilang benepisyo at ayaw masilip ang kanilang ginawa – kaya isinusulong nila ang political dynasty. Ang pamilya lang ba nila ang may monopolia sa kaalaman na maglingkod? Ano ba ang itinataya ng mga leaders natin para sa tao? Takot nga sila manindigan para sa katotohanan at katuwiran at nagpapadala lang sa gusto ng namumuno o nagluklok sa kanila. Kaya pumasa ang anti-terror bill ng mabilisan. Sunod sunuran lang ang mga kongresista sa kumpas ng nasa taas. Kaya rin hindi pa inaaksyonan ng Supreme Court na halos 9 na buwan na, kahit na may mga 37 petitions na laban sa anti-terror law na ito. Kaya nga tinanggalan ng franchise ang ABS-CBN kahit na walang dahilan kasi ayaw maninidigan ng mga congresista na ang concern ay ang kanilang political survival at hindi ang katotohanan.

Hindi lang sa gobyerno laganap ang ganyang klaseng leadership. Ganyan din sa simbahan. Kaya hindi nagsasalita sa mga kasamaan na nangyayari sa lipunan kahit na lantaran na ang pang-aapi sa mga mahihirap tulad ng sa kaso ng Drug War o sa kaso ng Red-tagging at pagpapatay sa progressive and active leaders of the people’s organizations. Sad to say, we church leaders take refuge in silence. We are like watch dogs who have lost the courage to at least bark!

A good leader knows his flock and is transparent. He is not afraid to be known by the people. Talaga bang kilala natin ang mga tao, o tayo ay nakatago sa ating condone sanitaire? Madali na ngayong panahon ng pandemic na gamitin natin ang virus bilang dahilan upang mahiwalay sa mga tao. Do we protect ourselves from the virus or, do we protect ourselves from the people and our responsibility towards them? Alam ba natin ang pangangailangan ng tao ngayon? Paano natin malalaman kung wala tayo sa piling nila? At nagpapakita lang paminsan-minsan sa taong bayan, at pre-recorded pa!

At bakit tayo takot sa accountability sa mga tao? Kaya ayaw maipasa ang freedom of information bill kasi ayaw masilip ang ginagawa ng mga political leaders natin. Kahit na gumawa na ng Executive Order ng Freedom of Information sa executive branch, maraming contrata sa China na hindi dinidisclose ang laman. Hindi nga nilalabas ang SALN ng matataas na opisyales ng bansa. Sa simbahan kailangan din natin ng transparency sa ating mga programa – kung may programa nga – at sa ating finances. Kaya nga ang finance council sa mga Parokya ay requirement ng Canon Law, siyang batas ng simbahan. Kailangan ng pari na maging transparent sa kanyang pamamahala sa Parokya.

Ang mabuting leader ay inclusive. Gusto niyang isama at pag-isahin ang lahat ng nasasakupan niya  at hindi lang ang mga kakampi niya. Paano magiging inclusive ang leader  kung sinisiraan niya ang hindi niya kasundo o ang kumokontra sa kanya? In a democracy we need oppositions, and strong oppositions, so that there be healthy debate and proper check and balance of power. No person, no party, has a monopoly of good ideas. Paano magkakaroon ng good discussions kung pikon ang leader at sa halip na sagutin ang mga tanong at pag-uusisa, ay tinitira at binabansagan ang mga nagtatanong? In the church too we need leaders who are not concerned only about intra-church matters. There are so many in the peripheries who have to be reached out to, and not only the usual flock that we have. Nasa taon pa naman tayo ng Missio Ad Gentes, pagmimisyon sa iba. At sa simbahan, kailangan din natin ng mga leaders na marunong makinig sa mga observasyon na hindi inaasahan. Openness brings unity but not close mindedness. Talagang hamon si Jesus na Mabuting Pastol.

Huwag sana kayo ma-turn-off sa malalakas na salita laban sa mga leaders. Ginagaya ko lang ang mga apostol na malakas din magsalita laban sa kanilang mga leaders at elders sa ating unang pagbasa. Lantarang sinabi nila: Sa ngalan ni Jesus Kristo na taga- Nazareth, na inyong pinapatay,  ang taong ito ay magaling sa harap ninyo. Susunod kami sa Diyos at hindi sa inyo. Ganoon din katapang ang ating mga ninuno sa pananampalataya sa mga namumuno sa kanila.

The Good Shepherd Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for vocations. Minsan, napuna ni Jesus na maraming tao ang litung-lito tulad ng mga tupa na walang pastol. Nasabi ni Jesus na marami ang aanihin ngunit kakaunti ang mang-aani. So he remarked: Pray therefore to the owner of the vineyard to send more laborers to the vineyard. Tumutugon tayo sa utos na ito ni Jesus sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Panalangin para sa Bokasyon. Nakikita natin na kulang ang mga pastol sa simbahan. Kulang ang mga pari, kulang ang mga madre, kulang ang mga lay leaders. At hindi lang kulang sa bilang. Kulang din sa pagiging mabubuting pastol. May magagawa tayong lahat. Magdasal tayo na padalhan tayo ng Diyos ng mga pastol, at ng mabubuting pastol. Ganoon din iyan sa ating pamahalaan. Kulang tayo sa mabubuting leaders. Ang bawat isa naman sa atin ay maaaring magdasal para mga leaders natin ngayon na magbago naman sila, na ayusin naman nila ang kanilang pamumuno kasi gutom na ang mga tao, tumataas ang bilang ng mga may sakit, at marami na ang namamatay, at ngayon palang magdasal na tayo ng mabubuting leaders na tumakbo at mahalal sa election next year. It is never too early to start praying now for good leaders for next year’s elections. Magdasal tayo sa Mabuting Pastol na bigyan tayo ng mabubuting leaders sa simbahan at sa bansa.

 

IN PHOTO: Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page

 

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FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of every fourth Sunday of Easter is Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In the culture of the Jews in the Bible, the leader, whether religious or political, is pictured as a shepherd of his people. As a shepherd leads, provides, defends and cares for his flock, so should …

FULL TEXT | Homily of Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, Apostolic Administrator of Manila during Mass for the Opening of Jubilee Door of Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz on April 25, 2021, at 10 am Read More »

Binondo Church

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23.

Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting priest, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Mascarenhas.

The Eucharistic celebration started with Fr. Lim raising for the very first time the Apostolic Brief or the official document issued by the Vatican containing the declaration at the altar of Binondo Church.

Later on, the rector read the English translation of the Papal decree, which was originally written in Latin – another first since 1992 when the former Manila Archbishop, the late Jaime Cardinal Sin read it during the proclamation ceremony on October 25 of the said year.

The basilica rector pointed out an important reminder that Binondo Church must instill to everyone as the minor basilica dedicated to the Philippines’ protomartyr and first saint.

“We thank God for giving us the title of minor basilica. We also pray that we may continue to promote and spread the devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Fr. Lim said in his homily.

“But let us not only pray for us to spread and promote the devotion. What we also have to pray is to be able to imitate his life: being a good husband, being a good father, being a good family man, being a firm Christian. That’s why we have given this title ‘Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz’ because of its special devotion to the first Filipino Chinese saint and because of its significance as being the Filipino Chinese who was raised at this very place, the heart of Chinatown – Binondo,” he added.

Fr. Lim also extended the greetings to all the devotees and parishes that carry his name as the Basilica serves as the center of devotion to the first Filipino saint.

Established in 1596, Binondo Church was first known as Church and Convent of Saint Gabriel and eventually became the Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary until July 23, 1992 when Pope John Paul II approved the petition to elevate it as a minor basilica in honor of one of the first Filipino saint who once served the church as altar server and escribiente or an office clerk. (Lem Leal Santiago | Photo by  Anton Maria Francesco Carabeo)

 

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz

Hundreds of faithful had gathered at the historic Binondo Church to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 23. Leading the High Mass was the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim, and concelebrated by its Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, and visiting …

Binondo Church celebrates 30th year as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz Read More »

Binondo Church

The 425-year-old Binondo Church commemorated its declaration as Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz through a special Eucharistic Celebration on Friday, July 23.

Despite the bad weather, devotees trooped to the historic church to take part in a concelebrated Holy Mass led by its rector and parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andy Ortega Lim.

In his homily, Fr. Lim emphasized the importance of the title honored by Saint Pope John Paul II on July 23, 1992.

“Ano ang sinasabi nito sa atin? We are so blessed at dapat na magpasalamat sa Diyos dahil dito sa atin nanggaling ang unang Pilipinong Tsinong santo,” he said.

They also displayed the original Apostolic Letter issued by the Secretary of State on behalf of the late Holy Father beside the altar for public exhibition throughout its special day.

Written in Latin, the document contains Rome’s concession of the title and dignity of minor basilica to Binondo Church.

San Lorenzo Ruiz was a native of Binondo and served in this church as an altar boy, sacristan and escribano before his fateful martyrdom at Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan on September 28, 1637.

Binondo Church is the 10th Philippine church and 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila that bears the official symbols of the Holy See as manifestation of particular bond of the church with the Roman cathedra of Saint Peter. (Lem Leal Santiago/SOCOM-Binondo Church | Photo from Binondo Church Facebook Page)