Suggested Songs for April 29, 2012 Mass

Sunday, April 29, 2012

4th Sunday of Easter in Year B, Good Shepherd Sunday, World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Liturgical Color : White

Good Shepherd Sunday is the Fourth Sunday of Easter in the new Catholic liturgical calendar; that is, the Sunday three weeks after Easter Sunday. The name derives from the gospel readings on this day which are taken from the 10th chapter of John. In this reading Christ is described as the Good Shepherd who, by dying on the Cross, lays down his life for his sheep. In the Traditional (pre-1970) Latin Liturgy (see Tridentine Mass), this Mass is said on the Second Sunday after Easter, i.e., the Sunday after the Octave of Easter (Quasimodo or "Low" Sunday).

In recent times the feast day has also become known as Vocations Sunday, a day on which prayers should be said for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Entrance:

1.      Diha sa Halaran

2.      Diosnong Magtutudlo

3.      Mao Kini ang Panaghigugmaay

4.      Kon Magkatigum Ta

5.      Magsiawit sa Panginoon (Isidro & Que) "Magsiawit kayo sa Panginoon; ALELUYA!"

6.      Isang Pananampalataya (Santos & Hontiveros)

7.      Halina aat Lumapit (Santos, Hontiveros) Stanza 2 ang priority.

8.      Blest be the Lord (Schutte)

9.      City of God (Schutte) Stanza 2 ang priority.

10.  Come With Me Into the Fields (Schutte)

11.  Glory and Praise to Our God (Schutte) Stanza 3 ang priority.

12.  Play before the Lord (Dufford). Stanza 2 ang priority. "Offering Him our joyful hearts, joining in endless praise. Alleluia (4x) joining in endless praise."

13.  Sing a new song (Schutte). Don’t forget to replace “Yahweh’s people” to “O God’s people.” "Singing Alleluia...”

Kyrie:

1.      Ginoo Kaloy-I Kami (Set IV)

2.      Panginoon Maawa Ka (Francisco)

3.      Maawa Ka (Francisco-Reyes)

4.      Lord, Have Mercy (Francisco-Reyes)

5.      As We Prepare

Gloria:

1.      Himaya sa Dios (C7)

2.      Luwalhati sa Dios (Sengson)

3.      Glory to God (Francisco-Agatep)

First Reading                                                                                       Acts 4:8-12

Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said:
"Leaders of the people and elders:
If we are being examined today
about a good deed done to a cripple,
namely, by what means he was saved,
then all of you and all the people of Israel should know
that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean
whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead;
in his name this man stands before you healed.
He is the stone rejected by you, the builders,
which has become the cornerstone.
There is no salvation through anyone else,
nor is there any other name under heaven
given to the human race by which we are to be saved."

Responsorial Psalm                                                          Ps 118:1, 8-9, 21-23, 26, 28, 29

R. (22) The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his mercy endures forever.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in princes.

R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me
and have been my savior.
The stone which the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the LORD has this been done;
it is wonderful in our eyes.
R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD;
we bless you from the house of the LORD.
I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me
and have been my savior.
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
for his kindness endures forever.
R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

Second Reading                                                                                  1 Jn 3:1-2

Beloved:
See what love the Father has bestowed on us
that we may be called the children of God.
Yet so we are.
The reason the world does not know us
is that it did not know him.
Beloved, we are God's children now;
what we shall be has not yet been revealed.
We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him,
for we shall see him as he is.

Gospel Acclamation:

1.      Aleluya, Lamdag Ka

2.      Aleluya, Mao Kini ang Adlaw

3.      Aleluya sa ‘Tong Ginoo

4.      Aleluya, Wikain Mo (Francisco)

5.      Aleluya, Kami ay Gawin mong Daan (Francisco)

6.      Aleluya (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)

7.      Sing Aleluia to the Lord

Gospel                                                                                             Jn 10:11-18

Jesus said:
"I am the good shepherd.
A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
A hired man, who is not a shepherd
and whose sheep are not his own,
sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away,
and the wolf catches and scatters them.
This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep.
I am the good shepherd,
and I know mine and mine know me,
just as the Father knows me and I know the Father;
and I will lay down my life for the sheep.
I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold.
These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice,
and there will be one flock, one shepherd.
This is why the Father loves me,
because I lay down my life in order to take it up again.
No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own.
I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again.
This command I have received from my Father."

Homily/Reflection of the Readings

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, today, the faithful of the Holy Catholic Church are united as one throughout the world to pray for religious vocations. Being of one mind as Jesus and the Father are of one mind, the faithful are calling upon the grace of Our Lord Jesus shine on His Church by blessing it with an abundance of religious vocations.

This special day harmonizes with the holy readings that we have just heard. As Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for we who are His sheep, those who are called to the religious life in service to the Lord wholeheartedly and continuously embrace a life of self-denial for the spiritual well- being of the Church and its followers.

During today's First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 4:7-12], we heard how Peter and John answered their calling to serve the Lord Jesus. Having been arrested for preaching the resurrection of the Lord, they stood before the rulers, the elders and the scribes to account for their actions. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter answered that his actions of good works were performed in the Name of Jesus Christ Who had been crucified and raised from the dead by God.

Using the opportunity that was available to testify in the Most Holy Name of Jesus, Peter added that Jesus, the Stone that was rejected by the authorities, the builders, had become the Cornerstone. There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other Name under Heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.

In his discourse, Peter referred to the rulers, the elders and the scribes as the "builders." Giving credit where it is due, Peter acknowledged the authority of the leadership of the Jewish people. He was speaking to those who had been called to lead God's people, to teach the Scriptures, the Ten Commandments, the Mosaic Laws and the righteousness of the Lord. As teachers, they were the builders of God's people under the Old Covenant of the Laws of Moses. 

Peter informed the builders of God's people that they had erred in their interpretation of the Scriptures regarding the coming of the Messiah. As the leaders of the people, they had rejected Jesus, the promised Messiah, He who was the Cornerstone of God's people, the Church.

As you must realize, those to who Peter was speaking were like our bishops, our judges and senior officials of the government. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter spoke boldly. While attempting to open their minds to spiritual truths, Peter was fearless of what the authorities thought. He had a greater fear of failing to do the work of the Lord than of offending those who were listening to his discourse.

In his discourse, Peter stated, "There is salvation in no one else..." Our living faith teaches us that our salvation is through Jesus, He who is the one Mediator between God and man. [1 Tim. 2:5-6] It is through Jesus alone that we find the forgiveness of sins that leads to our salvation. This forgiveness of sins is found in the Church Sacrament of Confession that was instituted on earth by Our Lord Jesus.

About three years ago, it came to my attention that some of the faithful were claiming that salvation could be obtained by another way than through Jesus who is the one and only Mediator between God and man. They were promoting the private messages of an alleged mystic. These private messages claimed that one could bypass Jesus and go directly to God the Father. They further claimed that if one was to call out just once in their lifetime on the word "Father," they would be saved. In other words, these private messages were denying the necessity of salvation through Christ and the Church Sacraments that Our Lord has instituted on earth. What a deception!

According to Canon Law # 823, as a priest I am obligated to safeguard the integrity of the faith. As such, I have a duty to condemn these writings which harm the true faith by deceiving those who believe in such nonsense.

Moving on to the Second Reading from the First Letter of John, [1 Jn. 3:1-2] we are reminded of the love of God the Father for us. So great is the love of God that it results in our being called His children.

The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Jesus. In the eyes of many, it is "strange" that those who have been genuinely called to the religious life choose to be celibate. It is strange that many of them live in poverty, renouncing worldly possessions. To them, it is strange that someone would renounce their free will by making the vow of obedience. To these of worldly minds, they fail to perceive the beauty of self-denial and self-giving in the love of God. Those of the world do not understand those who give themselves to the religious life because, contrary to their claims, they do not know Jesus.

As God's children know, we do not know what we will be like after the resurrection of the bodies because it has not been revealed to us. What we do know is that we will be like Jesus glorified. During our eternal life, we will not have a physical form because Jesus no longer has a physical body. This is known by the fact that He is no longer physically present in this world in human form. Nor will we be spirits because Jesus and His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, are two separate Divine Presences in God.

There are two things that the Holy Bible tells us. First of all, after the resurrection of the dead, at the twinkle of an eye, our bodies will be transformed into imperishable and immortal bodies. [1 Cor. 15:52] Secondly, those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. [Dan. 12:3]

Today's reading from the tenth chapter of the Gospel of John reminded us through the spoken Words of Jesus that He is the Good Shepherd. What is the difference between the Good Shepherd and the hired hand? When the hired hand sees the wolf approaching, he abandons the sheep. After all, why should he risk his life for what is not his? But, the Good Shepherd, He lays down His life to save His sheep from the approaching wolf. So loving and caring is the Good Shepherd that when He sees one of His sheep is missing, He will leave the ninety-nine who are safe to go and find His missing sheep.

Similar to this, those who answer their religious calling have a duty to safeguard the faith of the children of God, the believers of the Church. When they see a lost child who has been misled away from the Body of Christ, they have an obligation to reach out to this child so he or she may be reconciled with God, with the Church and with the faithful. This will ensure that every child shall bear spiritual fruits. This will ensure that when the Heavenly Father prunes the Tree of Life, He will not remove this child as a dead branch that should be burned.

Jesus said that He knows His own and they know Him. Jesus knows each and everyone of us by our first name and we know Him by His first name, Jesus.

Jesus also said that He has other sheep that do not belong to the fold. He must bring them also and they will listen to His voice. Consequently, they will be of one flock, having one Shepherd.

When Jesus spoke of His other sheep, He was referring to the Gentiles who at the time were not inheritors of the Old Testament promises of God for His chosen people. He was referring to all the people throughout the world, no matter their language, their nationality, their race or their culture. All are called to be of one flock, to have one Shepherd. Through faith in Jesus and the Sacrament of Baptism, all are born again of the godly seed to belong to the One Body of Christ. Through the Sacrament of Baptism, all are equal as children of God.

The Heavenly Father loves His Son Jesus because He voluntarily laid down His life for all of mankind. Jesus laid down His life so He can take it up again.

Equally, the Heavenly Father has a special love for those who voluntarily give their lives in the service of the Lord Jesus through the Holy Catholic Church. While not all lay down their lives by being called to martyrdom, all those who embrace the religious life are fully aware that their calling may send them to foreign missions where they may become martyrs.

Since today is the World Day of Prayers for Vocations, I would like to take a moment as a humble instrument of the Lord to draw to God those who think they may have a calling to the religious life. 

If any of you are contemplating the religious life, being frequently inspired by the Holy Spirit to reflect on this possibility, then I would like to hear from you.

If any of you enjoy a burning desire to serve the Lord by tending to the sheep, even as a lay missionary, then I would like to hear from you.

If any of you entertain a spiritual mind that is continuously compelled to reflect on spiritual things, being in this world but not of this world, then I would like to hear from you.

If you suspect for a moment that the Lord Jesus is calling you to care for His sheep, then I urge you to investigate the nature of this suspicion. If you are called to the religious life and you answer your call, you will have fulfilled your calling according to the will of God. If it is determined that you are not called to the religious life, at least you will gain the peace of mind in knowing that the religious life was not for you, that God had simply blessed you with a very spiritual mind.

As we continue with the celebration of the Holy Mass, may our minds be strengthened by the Word of God and the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist that we are about to receive. And let us humbly ask the Heavenly Father for His grace to shine on our Parish by the power of His Spirit so we may be blessed with religious vocations to fruitfully continue the ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ among His children.

Offertory

1.      Gasa sa Gugma

2.      Diyutay lang Kini

3.      Pagdaygon ka Dios

4.      Ang Tanging Alay Ko “’Sa ‘Yo aking Ama” connects to 2R.

5.      Isang Pagkain, Isang Katawan, Isang Bayan (San Pedro)

6.      Paghahandog ng Sarili (Ofrasio-Hontiveros or Arboleda-Francisco)

7.      Blessed Be God

8.      Prayer for Generosity (Arboleda)

Sanctus:

1.      Sanctus Mass IV (Villanueva)

2.      Santos Pastorela (Villanueva)

3.      Santo, Santo, Santo (Que)

4.      Santo, Santo, Santo (Francisco)

5.      Holy, Holy, Holy (Dufford-Schutte)

Acclamation:

1.      Among Gihandum

2.      Si Kristo Namatay

3.      Si Kristo ay Gunitain (Ramirez)

4.      Sa Krus Mo at Pagkabuhay

5.      Memorial Acclamation (Marcelo-Fenomeno)

6.      Dying

Amen:

1.      7 Amen

2.      Dakilang Amen

3.      Great Amen

Pater Noster:

Please choose the best Amahan Namo/Ama Namin/Our Father which all the people in the church can sing with you.

Doxology:

1.      Kay Imo Man

2.      Sapagkat

3.      For Thine (Mallote)

Agnus Dei:

1.      Kordero sa Dios Pastorella (Villanueva)

2.      Agnus Dei Mass VIII (Villanueva)

3.      Kordero ng Dios (Ryan Cayabyab)

4.      Kordero ng Dios (Que)

5.      Lamb of God (Folk)

6.      Lamb of God (Arboleda-Francisco)

Communion

1.      Misyon sa Tawo

2.      Ang Ginoo akong Magbalantay, swak for the Gospel

3.      Kini Maong akong Lawas

4.      Tungo Sa’yo (Hangad), swak for the celebration Vocation Sunday

5.      Ang Mabuting Pastol (Hontiveros)

6.      Ang Panginoon ay aking Pastol (Isidro & Ramirez)

7.      Pagsibol (Aquino)

8.      Tubig ng Buhay (Valdellon)

9.      Ama Kong Mahal (Aquino)

10.  Pag-ibig Mo, Ama (Macalinao, Hontiveros)

11.  Sa Diyos Lamang Mapapanatag (Isidro & Que) Ang priority ay stanza 3. “Pastol kang nagmamahal sa kawan”

12.  Panginoon ng Pag-ibig at Pag-asa. Emphasize Aleluya at finale.

13.  So the Love of God (Schutte)

14.  Shelter Me, O God

15.  Like a Shepherd (Dufford). Prioritize Stanzas 2 & 3

16.  Pastorale (Francisco)

17.  Valleys of Green (Schutte)

18.  Empty Space (Go, Francisco)

19.  For You Are My God (Foley)

20.  God of Silence (Francisco)

21.  Here I Am, Lord (Schutte)

Recessional

1.      Pagbanwag

2.      Ang Tawag

3.      Ang atong Tulubagon

4.      Humayo’t Ihayag (Francisco, Catalan & Go). Emphasize "Aleluya" at finale.

5.      Ito ang Bagong Araw (Isidro, Ramirez)

6.      Pananagutan

7.      Before the Sun burned bright (Schutte). Emphasize Alleluia.

8.      All My Days (Schutte) Stanza 4 ang priority.

9.      Pilgrim’s Theme (Go & Francisco) dahel Vocation Sunday.

10.  Save us, O Lord. Lenten, pero "O Shepherd of Israel"

Suggested Songs for April 22, 2012 Mass

April 22, 2012

3rd Sunday of Easter in Year B

Liturgical color: White

Good day brothers and sisters. We are now on the 3^rd Sunday of Easter. I hope you are doing fine. And I’m so happy to know that this blog really works, that a lot of Christians (Catholic) visits this blog weekly. And I really appreciate that. But I will be more happy if you will introduce yourself to us in D’MECC. Kindly email us at dmecchoir@yahoo.com to know your stories. The stories of your choir and etc.

Entrance:

1.      Diosnong Magtutudlo

2.      Diha sa Halaran (Koro Viannista)

3.      Kasaulogan sa Kinabuhi (Fernandez)

4.      Daygon ta ang Ginoo

5.      Magpasalamat kayo sa Panginoon (Ramirez) prioritize stanza 2

6.      Purihi’t Pasalamat (Esteban, Hontiveros)

7.      Sumigaw sa galak (Que)

8.      Water of Life (Haas)

9.      Sing to the Mountains (Dufford) prioritize stanza 1 and 3

10.  Sing a New Song (Schutte)

Kyrie:

1.      Ginoo Kaloy-I Kami (Set IV)

2.      Panginoon Maawa Ka (Francisco)

3.      Maawa Ka (Francisco-Reyes)

4.      Lord, Have Mercy (Francisco-Reyes)

5.      As We Prepare

Gloria:

1.      Himaya sa Dios (C7)

2.      Luwalhati sa Dios (Sengson)

3.      Glory to God (Francisco-Agatep)

First Reading...

"At the Temple gate, Peter addressed the people: 'The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our ancestors has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you handed over and rejected in the presence of Pilate though he had decided to release him.

But you rejected the Holy and Righteous One and asked to have a murderer given to you, and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses.

And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. In this way God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, that his Messiah would suffer.

Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out.'" [Acts 3:13-5, 17-9]

Responsorial Psalm Ps 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9

R. (7a) Lord, let your face shine on us.
When I call, answer me, O my just God,
you who relieve me when I am in distress;
have pity on me, and hear my prayer!
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
Know that the LORD does wonders for his faithful one;
the LORD will hear me when I call upon him.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
O LORD, let the light of your countenance shine upon us!
You put gladness into my heart.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.
As soon as I lie down, I fall peacefully asleep,
for you alone, O LORD,
bring security to my dwelling.
R. Lord, let your face shine on us.

Second Reading...

"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.

Now by this we may be sure that we know him, if we obey his commandments. Whoever says, 'I have come to know him,' but does not obey his commandments, is a liar, and in such a person the truth does not exist; but whoever obeys his word, truly in this person the love of God has reached perfection. By this we may be sure that we are in him." [1 Jn. 2:1-5]

Gospel Acclamation:

1.      Aleluya, Lamdag Ka

2.      Aleluya, Mao Kini ang Adlaw

3.      Aleluya sa ‘Tong Ginoo

4.      Aleluya, Wikain Mo (Francisco)

5.      Aleluya, Kami ay Gawin mong Daan (Francisco)

6.      Aleluya (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)

7.      Sing Aleluia to the Lord

Gospel Reading...

"The two disciples told the eleven and their companions what had happened on the road to Emmaus and how Jesus had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, 'Peace be with you.' They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He said to them, 'Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.

And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, 'Have you anything here to eat?' They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence.

Then he said to them, 'These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you - that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.' Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, 'Thus it is written, that the Christ is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things." [Lk. 24:35-48]

Homily/Reflections of the Readings:

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today, all three readings from the Holy Scriptures echo that Jesus suffered for the forgiveness of sins.

During the First Reading, you heard the words, "God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, that his Messiah would suffer. Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out." [Acts 3:18-9]

During the Second Reading, you heard, "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." [1 Jn. 2:2]

And, during the Gospel, you heard me read, "Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem." [Lk. 24:46-7]

When reflecting on the atoning sacrifice of Our Lord Jesus for our sins, what comes to my mind is the model life of St. Maximilian Kolbe who was canonized in October, 1982. Born in Poland in 1894, when he was old enough to answer God's calling, Maximilian joined the religious congregation of the Franciscans. By 1927, he had founded a house for those who wished to enter the religious life. 

In 1941, while appointed as the superior of the Polish community, he was arrested by the Gestapo and imprisoned at Auschwitz. Twelve weeks after his arrival at the prison camp, a prisoner escaped. In retaliation, ten men were chosen at random to die of starvation. One of the chosen men was a young father. Shining in the love of Jesus, Father Maximilian offered to take the place of the young man. The offer was accepted and on August 14, 1941, Fr. Maximilian died of starvation.

In this act of self-sacrifice, we perceive true Christian love. Here, one man gave his life for another on the day of judgment, when the young father was condemned to death. With Jesus, it was different. Rather then waiting for us to be condemned to death on Judgment Day because of the sinful nature that we have inherited from our first parents and the personal sins that we have committed against our Lord, Jesus offered Himself as our atoning sacrifice before we were born. Now, when we will appear before the Lord God on Judgment Day, Jesus shall be our Mediator. He shall testify on our behalf that He who was sinless, washed away our sins through His Blood as the Lamb of God.

As was foretold through all the prophets of the Old Testament, the Author of life, our Messiah Jesus was called to suffer for our sins. To this, the disciples of Jesus were witnesses.

Having died for our sins, for the sins of the whole world, each and everyone of us has a free will to turn to Jesus in order to accept His sacrifice as our substitute or to reject the grace of God. If we accept the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, we must repent of our sins with a sincerity of heart. Then, we must obey the Commandments of God that are found in the Holy Bible and that are placed before us through the teachings of the Holy Catholic Church. 

Those who obeyed the commandments of God as Father Maximilian obeyed them, they have come to know God. In them, the love of God has reached perfection. By embracing the same obedience to the Commandments in the love of Jesus Christ, we know that we are in Jesus and that Jesus is in us.

When Jesus appeared to His disciples to command them to proclaim repentance and the forgiveness of sins to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem, the disciples were startled and terrified. They thought that they were seeing a ghost."

But no, the disciples were not seeing a ghost. They were in the presence of Jesus glorified. As Jesus said, "A ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have." Nor can a ghost, having a spiritual body, eat food that is physical in nature. But, in the presence of His disciples, Jesus did eat. Therefore, it is certain that the presence of Jesus was not the presence of His Spirit.

Today's reading from the Gospel of Luke is an interesting passage because it gives us a spiritual perception of the nature of the Holy Ghost who was given to the world on Pentecost Day.

Throughout the Holy Bible, in the Old and New Testament, numerous references are found to the Holy Spirit as being the Spirit of God. Some of these passages are found in: Gen. 41:38; Mt. 3:16; Rom. 8;9; 1 Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:30; 1 Pet. 4:14; and 1 Jn. 4:2. There are also a reference to the Spirit of the living God. [2 Cor. 3:3] 

Elsewhere in the Holy Bible, a reference is found to the Holy Spirit as being the Spirit of the Father. [Mt. 10:20]

There are references to the Spirit of the Lord. [Is. 61:1; Lk. 4:18; Acts 8:39; 2 Cor. 3:17, 8] Some of these references are to the Spirit of the Lord God of the Old Testament (God the Father) while others refer to the Spirit of the Lord as Jesus. In another passage, the Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of God's Son. [Gal. 4:6]

There are also references to the Spirit of Christ. [Rom. 8:9; 1 Pet. 1:11] One Bible passage refers to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Jesus Christ. [Phil. 1:19]

By perceiving that the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of God is the same Spirit of the Lord Jesus, we have a greater appreciation of the nature of the Divine Presence of the Holy Spirit who continues the ministry of Christ on earth.

Jesus commanded us to proclaim repentance and the forgiveness of sins throughout the whole world. This calling can only be achieved by the grace of God the Father and the power of the Holy Spirit in the Most Holy Name of Jesus.

As we continue with the celebration of the Holy Mass, let us keep in mind that Jesus suffered in our place for the forgiveness of our sins. Let us call upon the Spirit of Christ to teach us to perceive the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, the tremendous love that Jesus has for each and everyone of us.

Offertory:

1.      Nagahalad Kami

2.      Palihug Dawata Ginoo

3.      Daygon Ikaw Ginoong Dios (Koro Viannista

4.      Isang Pagkain, Isang Katawan, Isang Bayan (San Pedro)

5.      Panalangin sa Pagiging Bukas Palad

6.      One Bread, One Body (Foley)

Sanctus:

1.      Sanctus Mass IV (Villanueva)

2.      Santos Pastorela (Villanueva)

3.      Santo, Santo, Santo (Que)

4.      Santo, Santo, Santo (Francisco)

5.      Holy, Holy, Holy (Dufford-Schutte)

Acclamation:

1.      Among Gihandum

2.      Si Kristo Namatay

3.      Si Kristo ay Gunitain (Ramirez)

4.      Sa Krus Mo at Pagkabuhay

5.      Memorial Acclamation (Marcelo-Fenomeno)

6.      Dying

Amen:

1.      7 Amen

2.      Dakilang Amen

3.      Great Amen

Pater Noster:

Please choose the best Amahan Namo/Ama Namin/Our Father which all the people in the church can sing with you.

Doxology:

1.      Kay Imo Man

2.      Sapagkat

3.      For Thine (Mallote)

Agnus Dei:

1.      Kordero sa Dios Pastorella (Villanueva)

2.      Agnus Dei Mass VIII (Villanueva)

3.      Kordero ng Dios (Ryan Cayabyab)

4.      Kordero ng Dios (Que)

5.      Lamb of God (Folk)

6.      Lamb of God (Arboleda-Francisco)

Communion:

1.      O Dios Ikaw Haduol

2.      Kalig-on sa Pagtoo

3.      Kahanga-hanga (Corpuz, Hontiveros)

4.      Kapayapaan (Aquino)

5.      Pagsibol (Aquino)

6.      Tubig ng Buhay (Valdellon)

7.      One thing I ask

8.      I seek you for I Thirst

9.      The Face of God, swak sa RP

10.  Here in this Place (Haas) best choice.

11.  I am the Bread of Life (Toolan)

Recessional:

1.      Ang Kalinaw Ibilin ko Kaninyo

2.      Pagbanwag

3.      Ang Tawag

4.      Humayo’t Ihayag

5.      O Bayan ng Dios

6.      I Will Sing Forever

Have a nice weekend ahead J

Suggested Songs for Sunday Mass, April 15, 2012

Sunday, April 15, 2012
2nd Sunday of Easter, Easter of Octave, Divine Mercy Sunday
Liturgical Color : White

Jesus said to his disciples, ‘This is the will of my Father, that whoever sees the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and that I shall raise him up on the last day.

Note: Please us to improve our site by sending your comments and suggestions to dmecchoir@yahoo.com Thank you and God bless us All 

Entrance:
1. Diosnong Magtutudlo
2. Lungsod nga Balaan
3. Daygon ta ang Ginoo, to justify the 2nd Sunday of Easter
4. Awit ng Pasasalamat (Hontiveros)
5. Magsiawit sa Panginoon (Isidro & Que) "Magsiawit kayo sa Panginoon; ALELUYA!"
6. Isang Pananampalataya (Santos & Hontiveros)
7. Blest be the Lord (Schutte) "The God of mercy, the God who saves" is so Divine Mercy.
8. Sing a new song (Schutte). Don’t forget to replace “Yahweh’s people” to “O God’s people.” "Singing Alleluia..."
9. Sing to the Mountains (Dufford)

Kyrie:
1. Ginoo Kaloy-I Kami (Set IV)
2. Panginoon Maawa Ka (Francisco)
3. Maawa Ka (Francisco-Reyes)
4. Lord, Have Mercy (Francisco-Reyes)
5. As We Prepare

Gloria:
1. Himaya sa Dios (C7)
2. Luwalhati sa Dios (Sengson)
3. Glory to God (Francisco-Agatep)

First Reading...

"The whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.

With great power the Apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.

There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the Apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need." [Acts 4:32-5]

Responsorial Psalm

R. (1) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Let the house of Israel say,
"His mercy endures forever."
Let the house of Aaron say,
"His mercy endures forever."
Let those who fear the LORD say,
"His mercy endures forever."
R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I was hard pressed and was falling,
but the LORD helped me.
My strength and my courage is the LORD,
and he has been my savior.
The joyful shout of victory
in the tents of the just:
R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The stone which the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the LORD has this been done;
it is wonderful in our eyes.
This is the day the LORD has made;
let us be glad and rejoice in it.
R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Second Reading...

"Beloved: Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child.

By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith.

Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? This is the one who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one that testifies, for the Spirit is the truth." [1 Jn. 5:1-6]

Gospel Acclamation:
1. Aleluya, Lamdag Ka
2. Aleluya, Mao Kini ang Adlaw
3. Aleluya sa ‘Tong Ginoo
4. Aleluya, Wikain Mo (Francisco)
5. Aleluya, Kami ay Gawin mong Daan (Francisco)
6. Aleluya (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)
7. Sing Aleluia to the Lord

Gospel Reading...


"It was evening on that day Jesus rose from the dead, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you."

When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

But Thomas (who was called the Twin one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."

A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name." [Jn. 20:19-31]

Homily or Reflection of the Readings:

How marvellous was the living faith of the early Church Christians once they knew that Jesus was the Messiah and that He had resurrected from the dead! Once Jesus had resurrected by the grace of God the Father and the power of the Holy Spirit, it did not take Him very long to firmly establish the Mystical Body of the Holy Catholic Church on earth.

During today's First Reading from The Acts of the Apostles, [Acts 4:32-35] we heard of the living faith that united the members of the early Church. They were of one heart and one soul. No one claimed private ownership of any possessions. All shared what they owned for the good of all.

The love and charity that was enjoyed by the early Church Christians is still visible today in a variety of degrees. Many of those who have been called to the religious life have made the vow of poverty in order to live their faith of one heart and soul as was seen in the early Church.

In the worldly life, many of those who are more fortunate than others contribute to charities on an ongoing basis to help the less fortunate. The oneness of heart and soul in today's Christians is seen through the ongoing fruits of the Bishop's appeal, the assistance provided to missions, the United Way Appeal, the Red Cross, special funds set up for those enduring natural disasters, the local Food Banks, and the thousands of other agencies that are managed by an endless number of volunteers who donate their endless time and efforts for the betterment of the world.

While our living faith embraces physical actions, it also requires that we testify to the Word of God. As the apostles gave their testimony to the glorious Resurrection of the Lord Jesus, as instruments of the Lord, we too are called to testify to others as to the reason for our living faith. From the understanding and knowledge of our living faith, our hope and our charity that have been firmly established in Jesus Christ, we are called to share this knowledge and understanding with our brothers and sisters for the growth and benefit of the whole Body of Christ. We are called to share it with our children so they too may establish their living faith in the righteousness of Jesus Christ.

The Second Reading from the First Letter of John [1 Jn. 5:1-6] teaches us that "Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child."

Through faith in Jesus and the Sacrament of Baptism, we were born again as new creations of the godly seed. As new creations, we became children of God. This qualifies us to inherit the eternal Kingdom of God if we persevere in our living faith through the sacramental life. As children of God, if we love our Heavenly Father, then we also love His children, our brothers and sisters in Christ.

How do we know if we love our brothers and sisters in Christ? It is by our love for God and by our obedience to His Commandments. The Commandments of God are not hard to obey for those who are born again. For their living faith in Christ testifies to their victory, that they have conquered the world. Their charitable actions and their testifying as to the Word of God to others is a sure sign that while they are in the world, they are not of this world. Their minds are set on what is spiritual in the hope of things to come.

Our living faith is in Jesus, the Son of God. In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells us, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the Kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit." [Jn. 3:5] Through the words that were inspired upon John the Baptist, we know that through Jesus, we are baptized with the Holy Spirit and fire. [Mt. 3:11] Having received our Baptism through water, it is the Holy Spirit who purifies us as we are sanctified to become in the likeness of Christ.

When Jesus was baptized, it was not to be born again. For He is the eternal God. His baptism was an example for us to follow. The baptism of Jesus was not only a baptism by water, but also by blood. He gave His life for us as the sacrificial Lamb of God.

Who shall testify on our behalf that we have been born again through faith in Jesus and the Sacrament of Baptism? Who shall testify on our behalf that we have lived our faith in Christ? Who shall testify on our behalf that we allowed ourselves to be sanctified in Christ by the purifying fire of the Holy Spirit? Will it be our parents, our godparents or our friends?

No! It is the Holy Spirit Himself Who shall testify on our behalf. It is the indwelling Holy Spirit who bears witness that we have received the new creation of the godly seed during the Sacrament of Baptism. It is indwelling Holy Spirit who shall testify that we have walked our faith in Christ and allowed ourselves to be sanctified by His purifying fire.

Most of us, we remember today's reading from the Gospel of John. [Jn. 20:19-31] We all know the story of the doubting Thomas who said that he would not believe that Jesus had resurrected until such time as he had touched the mark of the nails and the side of the Lord. The Holy Bible does not tell us if St. Thomas ever did touch the marks on the body of Jesus. But it does tell us that once Jesus had appeared to St. Thomas, he suddenly came to believe. St. Thomas said, "My Lord and my God!" Not only did St. Thomas perceive at that moment that Jesus was His Lord and teacher, but that He was also the eternal God manifested in human form.

In response to the doubt of St. Thomas, Jesus said, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." Yes, blessed are those who have not seen and who believe! Do you realize that not having seen Jesus, because of your living faith in Him, you are more blessed than the Apostle St. Thomas who doubted? What a blessing!

When Jesus appeared to His disciples, He breathed the Holy Spirit upon them. In other words, the Holy Spirit made His indwelling within the disciples and they became full of the Holy Spirit. Their minds were opened to the knowledge and understanding of the Spirit of Truth.

Having done this, Jesus authorized His Apostles to forgive the sins of others in His Name. Those who's sins are forgiven shall be forgiven. Those who sins are retained shall be retained.

This statement of Jesus testifies to the truth regarding the Sacrament of Confession. While some may want to believe that they can confess their sins directly to God the Father by bypassing those who have been appointed by Jesus to administer the Sacrament of Confession in the Holy Catholic Church, they are living a false hope. Without the Sacrament of Confession through the priests who have received the faculty to hear Confessions and who are in direct succession to the Apostles of Jesus, there is no forgiveness of sins.

Jesus did not say, "Be baptized and you are saved." He gave a number of commands. The Sacrament of Baptism through faith in Jesus Christ opens the door to our salvation. It makes us righteousness in the eyes of God through the forgiveness of the original sin and the sins committed before our Baptism. To maintain that righteousness, we must receive the Sacrament of Confession on a regular basis. The Sacrament of Confession that returns our state of grace is still insufficient for our salvation. We still need the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, the Living Bread that leads to the salvation to our souls.

My brothers and sisters, to live our faith in Jesus, we must receive the Sacraments of the Holy Catholic Church. To live our faith in Jesus, we must abide by the Commandments of God. By doing these things, we will have life in His Most Holy Name.

Offertory:
1. Mugna sa Dios (Koro Viannista)
2. Diyutay Lang Kini (Koro Viannista)
3. Ihalad Namo Kanimo (Fernandez)
4. Palihug Dawata Ginoo
5. Unang Alay (Magnaye)
6. Paghahandog ng Sarili (Arboleda-Francisco)
7. Pag-aalay (Francisco)
8. One Bread, One Body (Foley)
9. Blessed Be God
10. We Remember (Haugen) Use Stanza 2.

Sanctus:
1. Sanctus Mass IV (Villanueva)
2. Santos Pastorela (Villanueva)
3. Santo, Santo, Santo (Que)
4. Santo, Santo, Santo (Francisco)
5. Holy, Holy, Holy (Dufford-Schutte)

Acclamation:
1. Among Gihandum
2. Si Kristo Namatay
3. Si Kristo ay Gunitain (Ramirez)
4. Memorial Acclamation (Marcelo-Fenomeno)
5. Dying

Amen:
1. 7 Amen
2. Dakilang Amen
3. Great Amen

Pater Noster:
Please choose the best Amahan Namo/Ama Namin/Our Father which all the people in the church can sing with you.

Doxology:
1. Kay Imo Man
2. Sapagkat
3. For Thine (Mallote)

Agnus Dei:
1. Kordero sa Dios Pastorella (Villanueva)
2. Agnus Dei Mass VIII (Villanueva)
3. Kordero ng Dios (Ryan Cayabyab)
4. Kordero ng Dios (Que)
5. Lamb of God (Folk)
6. Lamb of God (Arboleda-Francisco)

Communion:
1. Kini Maong Akong Lawas (Koro Viannista)
2. Kalig-on sa Pagtoo (Koro Viannista) sibo kaayo sa Gospel diin nasukod ang pagtoo ni San Tomas sa dihang wala siya motoo nga nakita sa ubang tinun-an si Jesus nga buhi
3. Ang Kalinaw Ibilin Ko Kaninyo, sibo usab kini sa Ebanghelyo
4. Tubig ng Buhay (Valdellon)
5. Pagsibol (Aquino)
6. Pag-ibig Ko (Cenzon). If your parish wants to emphasize celebrating Divine Mercy.
7. Far Greater Love (Go & Francisco)
8. Without seeing you (Haas), Best choice, for this is especially about doubting Thomas.
9. Now we remain (Haas), Stanzas 1 & 2 ang priority.
10. I Seek You For I Thirst (Valdellon)

Recessional:
1. Ang Kalinaw Ibilin Ko kaninyo, if wala nakanta sa kalawat
2. Ang Tawag
3. Pagbanwag
4. Humayo’t Ihayag (Francisco, Catalan & Go). Emphasize "Aleluya" at finale.
5. O Bayan ng Diyos (Aquino)
6. I will sing forever (Francisco)
7. I am the Bread of Life (Toolan) Prioritize Stanza 5
8. Let There Be Peace n Earth (Miller, Jackson)

Have a nice weekend everyone 

Suggested Song Line-Up for Sunday Mass (Easter Sunday) April 8, 2012

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Easter Sunday

Liturgical Color : White

Easter (Old English: Ēostre) is a Christian feast and holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion at Calvary as described in the New Testament. Easter is preceded by Lent, a forty-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance. The last week of Lent is called Holy Week, and it contains Maundy Thursday, commemorating Maundy and the Last Supper, as well as Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Easter is followed by a fifty-day period called Eastertide or the Easter Season, ending with Pentecost Sunday. The festival is referred to in English by a variety of different names including Easter Day, Easter Sunday, Resurrection Day and Resurrection Sunday.

Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the civil calendar. The First Council of Nicaea (325) established the date of Easter as the first Sunday after the full moon (the Paschal Full Moon) following the northern hemisphere's vernal equinox. Ecclesiastically, the equinox is reckoned to be on March 21 (even though the equinox occurs, astronomically speaking, on March 20 in most years), and the "Full Moon" is not necessarily the astronomically correct date. The date of Easter therefore varies between March 22 and April 25. Eastern Christianity bases its calculations on the Julian calendar who’s March 21 corresponds, during the 21st century, to April 3 in the Gregorian calendar, in which the celebration of Easter therefore varies between April 4 and May 8.

Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. In many languages, the words for "Easter" and "Passover" are etymologically related or homonymous. Easter customs vary across the Christian world, but decorating Easter eggs is a common motif. In the Western world, customs such as egg hunting and the Easter Bunny extend from the domain of church, and often have a secular character.

Entrance:

1. Saulogon Ta Karon

2. Daygon Ta Ang Ginoo

3. Magsiawit sa Panginoon (Isidro & Que)

4. Sumigaw sa Galak (Que)

5. Sing to the Mountains (Dufford)

6. Sing a new Song (Schutte)

7. City of God (Schutte)

Kyrie:

1. Ginoo Kaloy-I Kami

2. Panginoon Maawa Ka (Francisco)

3. Lord, Have Mercy (Francisco-Reyes)

Gloria:

1. Himaya sa Dios (Villanueva)

2. Papuri sa Dios (Francisco-Reyes-Torres)

3. Glory To God  (Francisco-Agatep)

First Reading...

"Peter began to speak: You know the message that spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.

He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sin through his name." [Acts 10:34, 36- 43]

Responsorial Psalm Ps 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23.

R. (24) This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

or:

R. Alleluia.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,

for his mercy endures forever.

Let the house of Israel say,

"His mercy endures forever."

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

or:

R. Alleluia.

"The right hand of the LORD has struck with power;

the right hand of the LORD is exalted.

I shall not die, but live,

and declare the works of the LORD."

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

or:

R. Alleluia.

The stone which the builders rejected

has become the cornerstone.

By the LORD has this been done;

it is wonderful in our eyes.

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

or:

R. Alleluia.

Second Reading...

"Brothers and sisters: If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you will be revealed with him in glory." [Col. 3:1-4]

OR

"Do you not know that a little yeast leavens the whole batch of dough? Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch, as you really are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. Therefore, let us celebrate the festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." [1 Cor. 5:6-8]

Gospel Acclamation:

1. Aleluya (chord of A D Bm E-E7)

2. Aleluya Lamdag Ka

3. Salubong

4. Aleluya, Wikain Mo

5. Salamat Sa Dios (Hontiveros)

6. Sing Alleluia to the Lord

7. Sing Alleluia

Gospel Reading...

"Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, 'They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.'

Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there but he did not go in.

Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead.

Then the disciples returned to their homes. But Mary Magdalene stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. They said to her, 'Woman, why are you weeping?' She said to them, 'They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.'

When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, 'Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?' Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, 'Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.'

Jesus said to her, 'Mary!' She turned and said to him in Hebrew, 'Rabbouni!' which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, 'Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'

Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, 'I have seen the Lord,' and she told them that he had said these things to her." [Jn. 20:1-18]

OR

"On the first day of the week, two of the disciples were going to a village called Emmaus, about eleven kilometres from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.

And Jesus said to them, 'What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?' They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, 'Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?'

He asked them, 'What things?' They replied, 'The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of Angels who said that Jesus was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see Jesus.'

Then he said to them, 'Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the Prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?'

Then beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, Jesus interpreted to them the things about himself in all the Scriptures. As they came near the village to which they were going, Jesus walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, 'Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over,' So Jesus went in to stay with them.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Jesus; and he vanished from their sight.

The two disciples said to each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the Scripture to us?'

That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. These were saying, 'The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!'

Then they told what had happened on the road, and how the Lord has been made known to them in the breaking of the bread." [Lk. 24:13-35]

Homily/Reflection:

My brothers and sisters, today's message from the First Reading [Acts 10:34, 36-43] of the Word of God is presented to us by our first Pope, Peter the First. Often, we do not think of Peter as the First Pope. Rather, we think of him as St. Peter. But in reality, it is he who received the Keys to the Kingdom of God and he was in fact the first Pontiff of the Holy Catholic Church. As the spiritual leader of the Church of Jesus Christ that was being established on earth, Saint Peter took his place of authority and began to speak to those who had assembled in the house of Cornelius.

St. Peter said, "You know the message of God sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ - he is Lord of all." For centuries, the people of God had awaited for the coming Messiah who would bring peace to the world to reconcile man with God. Peter affirmed that this had come to pass through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Lord of all! Through Jesus, God the Father had fulfilled all His promises that are found in the Old Testament.

In the presence of all, Peter affirmed that he and the disciples of the Lord were witnesses to all what Jesus had done in Judea and in Jerusalem. What was said about Jesus was not fabricated stories. It was the truth. The disciples of Christ lived alongside Him and witnessed everything that He had done and said.

Peter testified that Jesus was indeed crucified and that He had died on the Holy Cross. But God raised Him from the dead on the third day. And, after His glorious resurrection, Jesus appeared to many of the disciples who were chosen by God as witnesses. In all, it is estimated that Jesus appeared to approximately 500 different persons during the days that followed His resurrection.

Now, when Jesus appeared to the disciples, it was not in a dream or in a vision. Nor was it the Spirit of Jesus who appeared to the disciples because a spirit cannot eat or drink. It was the Lord Jesus Himself, He had resurrected from the dead. In His resurrected physical body, Jesus ate and drank with the disciples.

When Jesus came to the disciples, He gave them a command. Jesus commanded the disciples to preach to the people and to testify to all that He was the One sent by God to judge the living and the dead. Jesus was the promised Messiah in fulfillment of the Scriptures.

In today's first reading, Peter finished by stating that all the prophets of the Old Testament spoke about the coming of Jesus. In their inspired writings, they testified that those who would believe in Jesus would receive the forgiveness of sin through His Most Holy Name. As the Holy Bible tells us elsewhere, Jesus gave the authority to forgive sins in His Name to His disciples. "If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." [Jn. 20:23]

During today's Second Reading that was taken from the Letter of Paul to the Colossians, [Col. 3:1-4] we heard that if we have been raised with Christ, we should seek the things that are from above where Christ dwells in Heaven. We should set our minds on spiritual things, not on worldly things.

Having been born again through the Church Sacrament of Baptism, we are obligated to God to feed our souls with spiritual things. We are called to spiritually grow in shining virtues and in the fruit of the Holy Spirit so that we may gradually be transformed by the grace of God the Father to become more in the likeness of His Son Jesus Christ.

For many, their participation in the celebration of the Holy Mass on Easter Day is a stepping stone towards returning to their living faith. It is a sincere resolution... but it must not end there.

Jesus is the Lord of all! And we all need Him! On a regular basis, we need to receive the Sacrament of Confession that Jesus has instituted on earth through the apostles for the forgiveness of our sins. We need to receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist that Jesus has instituted on earth through the apostles as our assurance of salvation and eternal life in the Kingdom of God. The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is the Living Bread that feeds our souls once we have been reinstated in a state of grace after having received the Sacrament of Confession.

During today's reading of the Holy Gospel, [Jn. 10:1-18] we heard how Mary Magdalene needed Jesus. She wept when she realized that His body was gone, believing that someone had stolen it. She wept because she missed the Divine presence of Jesus. She missed that inner burning desire to be near the living body of Jesus, to follow Him, to hear Him, to feel loved, to be understood and to be forgiven of sins.

Mary Magdalene was not the only one to have these feelings. All the disciples of Jesus felt that way. That is why they reacted the way they did when they heard some saying that Jesus was no longer in His tomb, that He had resurrected, or that He was appearing here and there to different disciples.

The word, "Jesus is alive!" or "I have seen the Lord!" were enough to instantly create a great spiritual hunger in the soul of the disciples of Jesus where emptiness existed because of His death. The worldly minds of the disciples suddenly became alerted to the truth. Through these words, there was a new hope. Faith was being reinstated in the Words that Jesus had spoken while He lived on earth.

Jesus is the Lord of all! It is the will of God that we all experience spiritual hunger for the Divine presence of the Lord Jesus. It is the will of God that Jesus feed our spiritual hunger so like Mary Magdalene and the disciples, we will never want to leave His Divine presence.

When we set our minds on Jesus, we do what is spiritual. While we are in this world, we are not of this world. Through faith in Jesus and the Sacrament of Baptism, we have become new creations of the godly seed, called to obey and serve the Lord Jesus in all righteousness.

When you go home today, think of the words, "Jesus is alive!" Think of the words, "Jesus is the Lord of all!" He is your Lord as much as He is my Lord and the Lord of all the others, those who are present and those who are not. Remember that spiritual hunger that you experienced so many times in your life, during those moments when you desired that the Lord Jesus could be so close to you... (pause) and He came close to you. You felt His warmth, His joy and His peace.

Awaken your spirits so you may relive those moments, not only for a day or two, but for every day of your life until you appear before the Lord Jesus in person. While you are in this world, be of above. For Jesus is the Lord of all and by the grace of God the Father and the power of the Holy Spirit, He can once more ignite your hearts with a burning hunger that will draw you to Him.

Sequence: Victimae Paschali Laudes (Wipo) You may sing this everyday up from today to April 15, 2012, the 2nd Sunday of Easter inclusive.

Today there would be no Profession of the Creed; instead: the Renewal of Baptismal Vows. After the vows, singing is typical.

Renewal of Baptismal vows: Isang Pananampalataya (Santos & Hontiveros)

Offertory:

1. Nagahalad Kami

2. Mugna sa Dios

3. Diyutay Lang Kini

4. Tinapay ng Buhay  (justified for today’s celebration)

5. Unang Alay

6. Blessed be God

7. We Remember (Haugen) Use Stanza 2.

Sanctus:

1. Santos (Mass 21 Villanueva)

2. Santos (Fernandez) chord G C G D7

3. Santo, Santo, Santo (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)

4. Santo, Santo, Santo (Francisco)

5. Holy, Holy, Holy (Dufford-Schutte)

Acclamation:

1. Si Kristo Namatay

2. Si Kristo’y Namatay (Hontiveros)

3. Christ Has Died (Bayogos)

4. Christ Has Died (Wise)

Amen:

1. 7 Amen

2. Amen Pagdaygon Ang Dios

3. Dakilang Amen (Francisco)

4. Amen Alleluia (Bayogos)

Pater Noster:

1. Amahan Namo

2. Ama Namin (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)

3. Ama Namin (Hontiveros 1)

4. Our Father (Malotte)

Doxology:

1. Kay Imo Man Ang Gingharian

2. Sapagkat Sa’yo ang Kaharian (Francisco-Arboleda-Torres)

3. For the Kingdom

Agnus Dei:

1. Kordero sa Dios (Set III Fernandez)

2. Kordero ng Diyos (Arboleda-Francisco)

3. Lamb of God (Folk)

Communion:

1. Kini Maong Akong Lawas (Koro Viannista)

2. Ang Ginoo Nabanhaw Na (F82)

3. Nabanhaw si JesuKristo (F81)

4. Ang Huni sa Kinabuhi

5. Way Sukod ang Pagmahal

6. Daygon Ikaw Ginoong Dios

7. Bawat Sandali (Gan, Francisco)

8. Pagsibol (Aquino)

9. Tubig ng Buhay (Valdellon)

10. Tinapay ng Buhay (if hindi kinanta sa Offertory)

11. Far Greater Love (Go and Francisco)

12. I am the Bread of Life (Toolan)

13. On Eagle’s Wings (Joncas)

Recessional:

1. Ang Tawag

2. Pag-inambitay

3. Pagbanwag

4. Humayo’t Ihayag (Francisco, Catalan, Go)

5. Awit ng Pasasalamat (Hontiveros)

6. Life Forevermore (Ellerton and Francisco)

7. I am the Bread of Life (Toolan)

Happy Easter Everyone 