1st Sunday of Advent - Year B - December 3, 2023

 
Another year of our church calendar has been ended and we are now on Year B. We are still grateful for your help and support for us to continue this ministry despite the odds we encounter this year. Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
 
The readings for the First Sunday in Advent for Year B are a call to be alert in waiting for the coming of the Lord. The first reading begs the Lord to return to us and save us. The psalm also asks God to look upon us and have mercy. The second reading calls us to remain steadfast in our discipleship. And in the gospel, Jesus warns us to be watchful. Not everyone will be ready in the final hour.
 
Theme:
 

• Vigilance: The passage emphasizes the importance of being watchful and alert. It suggests that one must always be prepared for significant events or the return of Christ, as the exact time is unknown.

• Preparedness: The theme of preparedness is linked to the concept of vigilance. It implies that one should live in a state of readiness, both spiritually and morally, for the end times or second coming.

• Accountability: The passage indicates that there will be a time of reckoning. It teaches that individuals are responsible for their actions and must be ready to account for them at any unexpected moment.

• Faithfulness in Duty: Servants are instructed to carry out their tasks diligently. This reflects the broader spiritual principle that followers should be consistent in their responsibilities and faithful in their duties.

• The Unpredictability of God’s Timing: The text stresses that the timing of divine actions is not for humans to know. It challenges believers to trust in God’s timing and plan, despite not knowing the details.

 
Entrance:

1. Ayaw Paglangan Ginoo
2. Andama Ang Dalan
3. Bayan magsiawit na (Song #33)
4. Advent is about, among others, anticipation for Christ’s coming. Naturally being repetitive, this song’s refrain would have an adventish touch and begin very strongly that mission to arouse the congregation’s anticipation for the coming JC when one sings: “Dakilang biyayang pangako Niya sisilay na” rather than “sumilay” na. Kung baga ang lakas ng pasok/dating nito. Parang the film outfit would be creating a teaser dahel may ilo-launch na big budget film! Most sincere apologies po to Father Arnel if binastardo ko yung song niya.
5. Halina, Jesus, aming Mananakop (Isidro, Que) 
6. Dinggin Mo (Esteban, Hontiveros) "Ama nami't Panginoon" is so 1R.
7. Seek the Lord (especially Stanza 1) (Song #289)
8. Advent is not only about anticipation for the Christ’s first coming. It is also about preparedness for the Second Coming. (Traces of 32nd and 33rd Sundays in Ordinary Time.)
9. Blest be the Lord (Schutte)
10. All the Ends of the Earth (Dufford)

 
Readings:

• First Reading – Isaiah 63:16B-17, 19B; 64:2-7: We acknowledge You as our eternal redeemer, yet we’ve strayed and become sinful. We long for Your mighty presence and deeds, as we are lost without Your guidance.

• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 80: Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.

Shepherd of Israel, hear us and save us. Look down, care for us, and let Your face shine upon us that we may be strong and faithful.

• Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 1:3-9: I thank God for the grace given to you, enriching you with knowledge and spiritual gifts as you await Jesus Christ, who will keep you steadfast until His return.

• Gospel – Mark 13:33-37: Jesus advises his disciples to stay vigilant as no one knows when He will return. It’s likened to a man going on a journey who instructs his servants to be watchful in his absence, emphasizing the need to remain prepared at all times.

 

Offertory:

1. Gasa sa Gugma (Koro Viannista) good choice
2. Daygon Ikaw, Ginoong Dios
3. Gasa Namo Kanimo
4. Pag-aalay ng Puso (Minsan Lamang) (Nemy & Que) as advent (at least the earlier part) has an eschatological notion. Traces of 32nd and 33rd Sundays in Ordinary Time yata ito.
5. Ang Tanging Alay Ko Prioritize Stanza 3. One reinforces the more common message of Advent even more when in Stanza 3 this is sung: “Aking hinihintay ang ‘Yong pagdarating, Jesus” rather than “pagbabalik, Jesus.” Nevertheless, pagbabalik can certainly remain, as again this season also has an eschatological notion.
6. Unang Alay (best choice) We can instantly make this song have an Adventish notion: The last line originally runs: “...Ngayo’y nananalig, nagmamahal sa ‘Yo.” Sing instead, “Ngayo’y umaasa, naghihintay sa ‘Yo.” You then reinforce the message re: anticipation.
7. Now if your choir sings the Koda, you deliver one solid message if you sing: “Ngayo’y nananalig (umaawit), dumudulog (sumasamba), umaasa (naghihintay) sa ‘Yo.” 
8. I will be so excommunicated by Fr. Rey Magnaye.
9. Prayer for Generosity (Arboleda)
10. Take our Bread (Wise)
11. To Be Your Bread (Haas)

 
Communion:
1.      Panahon na Karon sa Pagbag-o, literally Christians repent during Advent and Lent season. So this is a good choice
2.      O Dios, Ikaw Haduol
3.      Andani, Pag-andam sa Ani, the main keyword is Pag-andam. For his coming we should prepare.
4.      Ginoo, Sayud Ka sa Tanan (Ad-7)
5.      Awit ng Paghahangad (Cenzon) Our response to be watchful: Ika’y pagmamasdan sa dakong banal, nang Makita ko ang ‘Yong pagkarangal.
6.      Awit ng Paghilom (Aquino). “Hanap-hanap Ka ng puso”
7.      Hesus na Aking Kapatid (Hontiveros) Focus on “Tulutan Mo aking mata” Lentish admittedly though.
8.      Liwanag ng Aming Puso: Lentish but (“...sa amin manahan Ka...”) 
9.      O Diyos, Iniibig Kita (Rodrigo & Hontiveros)
10.  Pagsibol (Aquino)
11.  Panginoon Aking Tanglaw (Ramirez)
12.  Sa Dapit Hapon (Tabuena & Hontiveros) Sing stanza 1 repeatedly.
13.  Patience People (Foley) 
14.  The Face of God (Francisco)
15.  God of Silence (Francisco)
16.  Holy Darkness “As we await You” pero some consider this for the Easter Vigil mas apt.
17.  Hosea (Norbet) Lentish mas kilala, pero if you consider its links to eschatology...
18.  Love is the answer (Hannisian)
19.  One Thing I Ask (Tirol)
20.  This Alone (Manion)
21.  We Remember (Haugen)
 
Recessional:

1. Pagpangatagak na Yamog
2. Balang Araw - Suggestion ko lang ‘toh; anyone can very well disagree: consider changing yung ‘Narito na’ng Manunubos, luwalhatiin ang Diyos!’ into ‘Darating na’ng Manunubos, luwalhatiin ang Diyos!’ I just think it will be more faithful to the chronology, na for this season of advent, we should all help build up the anticipation for His coming. Technically Christ already came 2000 years ago, but we do have a liturgical year—every year and time, events that happened 2000 years ago are ever more renewed and ever more recalled to mind, and akma yung message mo when you hit the right pamanahon ng pandiwa (tenses of verbs).
3. Tanda ng Kaharian ng Diyos (Morano & Francisco)
4. Any Marian Song (kasi Nov 27 is Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal)
5. A Time Will Come for Singing (Schutte) 
6. Wait for the Lord
7. Life Forever More (Ellerton & Francisco)

Solemnity of the Christ the King - Year A - November 26, 2023

 Thank you sa nagsend pala ng 50.00 pangload sa pocket wifi.

The readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A tell us that the kingship of Christ is one of a caring master who longs for us to live together in harmony in his kingdom. The first reading tells of the Lord gathering in his flock and tending to them. The second reading reminds us that everything is subject to Jesus Christ, including death. And in the gospel Jesus tells of the Judgement of the Nations, where those who served him in this life are separated from those who did not.
 
Some themes for this Sunday:

• Final Judgment: The gospel describes the final judgment of all nations, indicating a day of accountability for actions during earthly life.

• Moral Responsibility: The criteria for judgment are based on acts of kindness or neglect, emphasizing the importance of moral and ethical conduct.

• Corporal Works of Mercy: Feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and clothing the naked are highlighted as virtuous deeds, stressing the spiritual value of compassion.

• Identification with Suffering: Jesus says that acts done to “the least of these” are done to him, suggesting a deep spiritual connection between God and those who suffer.

• Universality: The passage refers to “all the nations,” suggesting a universal scope for these spiritual principles.

• Social Justice: The emphasis on helping the marginalized connects with themes of social justice and activism.

 
Entrance:
1.      Himaya Kanimo (Koro Viannista), prioritize verse 1 and 2 good for Gospel
2.      Ang Hari sa Himaya, Ania Na
3.      Ang Ginoo Gahari Karon
4.      Pagbubunyi ("Dahil inako ng Kristong Hari kaligtasan ng Kanyang lipi.")
5.      Bayan Umawit ("Iisang lipi, iisang Diyos, iisang hari...")
6.      All Glory, Laud and Honor (Theodulph) “to thee redeemer king”
7.      Let heaven rejoice ("Hosanna to our King")
 
Readings:
 

• First Reading – Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17: The Lord God promises to act as a shepherd to his scattered flock. He will rescue, pasture, and give them rest. He’ll seek the lost, return the strayed, heal the sick, and bind the injured. He will also judge between the different kinds of sheep in his flock.

• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

The LORD is my shepherd who meets all my needs, guiding and sustaining me. I will dwell in his house forever, surrounded by his goodness and kindness.

• Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28: Christ has risen, initiating the resurrection for all. He’ll reign until all enemies, including death, are defeated. Ultimately, everything will be subjected to God.

• Gospel –Matthew 25:31-46: Jesus tells his disciples about the final judgment where people will be separated like sheep and goats. Those who helped the needy will inherit eternal life, being told that their good deeds were done unto Jesus himself. Those who neglected the needy will face eternal punishment.

 

Offertory:
1.      Daygon Ikaw, Ginoong Dios, swak for the celebration. We should be thankful for HIM
2.      Gasa sa Gugma (Koro Viannista)
3.      Paghahandog ng Sarili (..."Pagharian lahat ayon sa kalooban Mo...")
4.      Mula sa 'Yo ("Buhay ko'y pagharian Mo...")
5.      Ang Tanging Alay Ko. Stanza 3 ang priority. “Aking hinihintay ang ‘Yong pagbabalik, Hesus. Ang makapiling Mo’y kagalakang lubos.” This is so eschatology and triumph of Jesus.
6.      Earthen Vessels (Foley) “gold...wealth...treasure”
 
Communion:
1.      Ang Ginoo Akong Magbalantay (Koro Viannista), swak sa First Reading and Responsorial Psalm
2.      Magsaulog Kita Karon, swak sa Gospel
3.      O Dios Ikaw, Haduol, swak sa First Reading
4.      Awit ng Paghahangad. You might want to prioritize Stanza 3. ("Magdiriwang ang Hari...")
5.      Ang Panginoon ay Aking Pastol (Isidro, Ramirez)
6.      Pagkabighani (Alejo, Francisco)
7.      Sa Diyos Lamang Mapapanatag (Isidro, Que) Prioritize Stanza 3 “Pastol Kang nagmamahal sa kawan”
8.      Ang Mabuting Pastol (Hontiveros)
9.      Hesus na Aking Kapatid (Hontiveros)
10.  One Thing I Ask (Tirol). Best choice. There are all the elements of eschatology, as well as the good shepherd imagery, and even triumph.
11.  If I could Touch You (Francisco) Stanza 3 and counterpoint ang priority. “What you do to your brethren, you do it for Me. I am in the brokenness and woundedness of man.” Although Lenten admittedly, still a very very very good choice.
12.  How lovely Is Your Dwelling Place (Aquino) ("My King and my God.") very good choice.
13.  Like A Shepherd (Dufford) Prioritize Sanzas 2 and 3.
 
Recessional:
1.      Ang Tawag sa Panahon
2.      Pagbanwag
3.      Ang Tawag
4.      Tanda ng Kaharian ng Diyos
5.      Ito ang Bagong Araw (Stanza 2: "Kristo Jesus, tunay Kang Hari...")
6.      All the ends of the earth. You might want to prioritize stanza 3.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A - November 19, 2023

 
For the nth time, we are very sorry for not doing any updates last week here. We are so busy doing our part time jobs and school activities, hope you understand our situation dear brothers and sisters.
 
The readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A are a call to do the work of the Kingdom of God with the gifts we have been given. The first reading sings the praises of the worthy wife who uses her talents to labor for good. The psalm tells us that those who follow the Lord are blessed. The second reading reminds us that we are children of light and goodness. And in the gospel Jesus tells the parable of the talents and praises the servants who used their resources wisely.
 
Themes:

• Stewardship: The passage emphasizes the importance of wisely managing resources or gifts given by God.

• Accountability: Each servant in the parable is held accountable for how they use their talents, highlighting the theme of personal responsibility.

• Risk and Growth: The servants who invest their talents are taking a risk, suggesting that spiritual growth often involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

• Work Ethic: The servants who double their talents work hard, suggesting the value of effort and diligence in spiritual life.

• Divine Judgment: The passage suggests that there will be a time of reckoning where each individual will be judged based on their actions.

• Inequality: The talents are distributed unevenly at the start, which may prompt considerations about the spiritual implications of inequality.

 
Entrance:
1.      Lungsod nga Balaan, in preparation for the Kristori
2.      Diosnong Magtutudlo
3.      Pagmamahal sa Panginoon (Hontiveros)
4.      Buksan ang Aming Puso (Tinio, Hontiveros) Stanzas 2 and 3 ang priority. People should get rid of the idea that this song is exclusively for Lent. Siguro dahil sa ang message ng song is about reforming ourselves expressed through changing the work of our hands, minds and hearts for the better, tapos naman ang message ng Lent is repentance and reform for the better, nag-stick. But really kahit hindi Lent maaari itong kantahin, for as long as the readings are about reform for the better, or more particularly, acknowledging the need for reform.
5.      All My Days (Schutte, Murray) “Till the end of my days” 
6.      The Lord is My Light Foley (Foley) Swak sa 2R.
 
Readings:

• First Reading – Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31: A good wife is invaluable, trusted by her husband and doing good all her life. She’s hardworking and charitable, deserving of praise especially for her fear of the LORD.

• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 128: Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

Those who fear the LORD and walk in His ways are blessed. They enjoy fruitful labor, a prosperous family, and lifelong blessings from God.

• Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6: The day of the Lord will arrive unexpectedly. While others may be caught off guard, believers are children of light and should stay alert and sober.

• Gospel – Matthew 25:14-30: A man going on a journey entrusts his servants with different amounts of money. Two servants invest and double their money, receiving praise and more responsibility from their master upon his return. The third servant hides his money and is chastised for his inaction, losing even what he had.

 

Offertory:
1.      Halad sa Sinalikway
2.      O Dios Dawata, (Koro Viannista)
3.      Diyutay Lang Kini (Koro Viannista)
4.      Unang Alay (Magnaye) “Lahat ng lakas” is reminiscent of talent.
5.      Narito Ako, Panginoon (Que) Stanza 2 ang priority. “Ng aking talino... ipagkaloob ninyong gamitin ko”
6.      Prayer for Generosity (Arboleda)
 
Communion:
1.      Huni sa Usa ka Alagad, swak sa Gospel
2.      Way Sukod ang Pagmahal (Koro Viannista)
3.      Kini Maong Akong Lawas
4.      Pagkabighani (Alejo, Francisco)
5.      Likhain Mong Muli (Alejo, Francisco) Stanza 3 ang priority. 
6.      Pagkakaibigan (Cenzon, Abad-Santos) Stanzas 1 and 3 ang priority. 
7.      One Thing I Ask (Tirol)
8.      So the Love of God (Schutte) swak sa 2R.:
 
Recessional:
1.      Ang Tawag sa Panahon
2.      Pag-inambitay
3.      Ang Atong Tulubagon
4.      Sa Langit ay Higit ang Ganda sa Ganda (Perez, Ramirez)
5.      Maliban na Mahulog sa Lupa 
6.      What You Hear in the Dark (Schutte) 
 

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A - November 5, 2023

 
We are very sorry for not consistently posting here as we are busy also with our academics and personal life at medyo kapos din sa budget because of our thesis. We will always do our best to post sometimes here.
 
Themes for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A are a call to humility and holiness. The first reading demands that we listen to God and love one another. The psalm reminds us to find our peace and rest in God. The second reading tells us that we work to proclaim the Good News. And in the gospel, Jesus calls out those who lay heavy laws on others but do not practice what they preach.
 

• Practice vs. Preach: Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for not practicing what they preach. This theme highlights the importance of congruency between one’s words and actions in religious life.

• Heavy Burdens: The religious authorities are blamed for laying heavy burdens on others while not lifting a finger themselves. This theme centers on the unjust imposition of religious obligations without personal commitment.

• Humility over Titles: Jesus advises against using honorific titles like “Rabbi” and emphasizes the value of humility. This theme promotes a down-to-earth approach over seeking social or religious status.

 
Entrance:
1.      Mao Kini ang Panaghigugmaay, sibo sa 2nd Reading
2.      Diosnong Magtutudlo, tukma sa Gospel
3.      Sa Piging ng Panginoon, prioritize stanza 3 (Tabuena, Hontiveros)
4.      Pagbabasbas ,(Javellana, Arboleda, Francisco) “abang tahanan” is reflective acknowledgement of humility.
5.      Come With Praise (Schutte)
6.      Magnificat (Haas). Stanzas 2 and 3 ang priority.
 
Readings:

• First Reading – Malachi 1:14B-2:2B, 8-10: I am a great King and demand respect. Priests, if you don’t honor my name, I’ll curse you. You’ve strayed and made others falter, breaking the covenant. Remember, we all have one God.

• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 131: My heart isn’t proud, Lord. I don’t aim for things beyond me. Instead, I’m at peace, quiet like a child with its mother. Israel, put your hope in the Lord.

• Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13: We were kind to you, like a mother to her children. We shared not just the gospel, but ourselves. You know we worked hard to not be a burden. We’re thankful you received God’s word, not just human words.

• Gospel – Matthew 23:1-12: Jesus tells the crowd and his disciples to follow the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees but not their actions. He criticizes them for being showy and not genuinely helping others. He advises against using titles like “Rabbi” and “Master,” emphasizing humility and service instead.

Offertory:
1.      O Dios Dawata, (Koro Viannista)
2.      Mugna sa Dios, (Koro Viannista)
3.      Dios Nia Ko, swak sa gospel
4.      Ang Tanging Alay Ko,  Stanza 2 ang priority.
5.      Paghahandog ng Sarili, (Arboleda, Francisco)
6.      Earthen Vessels (Foley) Stanza 2 ang priority.
7.      Christify
 
Communion:
1.      Kini Maong Akong Lawas, (Koro Viannista)
2.      Natawag Ko Na Ikaw
3.      Ang Kinabuhing Mahinungdanon
4.      Hesus na Aking Kapatid (Hontiveros)
5.      Pag-alabin Aming Puso (Francisco)
6.      Saan Kami Tutungo (Macalinao, Hontiveros)
7.      Be Not Afraid (Dufford) Stanza 3 ang priority.
8.      Come To Me (Francisco) swak sa RP
9.      Say The Word
 
Recessional:
1.      Pag-inambitay
2.      Pagmantala
3.      Ang Atong Tulubagon
4.      Mapapalad (Ramirez)
5.      Happy are the Ones (Schutte)

November 2, 2023 All Soul's Day

 Commemoration of All The Faithful Departed

(All Souls’ Day)
(Paggunita sa Lahat ng Mga Pumanaw na Kristyano)

Liturgical Color: Purple or White


Short catechesis:

Please note that strictly speaking, this day is neither a solemnity nor a feast.

Kung ang Nov 2 ay pumatak sa araw ng Linggo, at dahil wala namang nakasulat na kelangan tanggalin, mayroong Gloria.

But this year, pumatak ang Nov 2 sa weekday (Wednesday). The Gloria is not mandatory for weekday commemorations of AllSouls Day.


Readings:

1R: Wisdom 3:1-9. The souls of the just are well and comfortable. Initially they will appear to be suffering, but this is superficial. In time they shall be greatly blessed, for God found them to be worthy to be with Him.


RP: The famous Psalm 23. The Lord is my shepherd. There is nothing I shall want.


G: The Judgment of the Nations: the story about the "sheep" being placed at God's right; the "goats" on His left. Then, "Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and gave You drink?"... "What you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for Me." And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."


Filipino:

E: Bayan, magsiawit na! ("...upang Siya ay makapiling...")


P of the G:

1. Ang Tanging Alay ko (Stanza 3 ang priority) "Ang makapiling Mo'y kagalakang lubos.")
2. Pag-aalay ng Puso (Minsan Lamang) (Nero, Que)


C:
1. Ang Kaluluwa Ko’y Nauuhaw (Isidro, Que)
2. Awit ng Paghahangad ("O Diyos, Ikaw ang laging hanap...")
3. Bawat Sandali (Gan, Francisco)
4. Kahanga-hanga (Corpuz, Hontiveros)
5. Likhain Mong Muli (Alejo, Francisco)
6. Pagkabighani (Alejo, Francisco)
7. Sa ‘Yong Piling (Castro, Villaroman)
8. Saan Kami Tutungo (Macalinao, Hontiveros)
9. Sino Kayo? (Javellana, Que) Best choice.

R:
1. Tanda ng Kaharian ng Diyos (Morano, Francisco)
2. Mapapalad (Ramirez) Best choice.
3. Magpasalamat Kayo sa Panginoon (Ramirez)
4. Sa Diyos Lamang Mapapanatag (Isidro, Que)
5. Sa Langit ay Higit ang Ganda sa Ganda (Perez, Ramirez)


English:

E: Ang dami ng maaaring pagpilian:
1. I Rejoiced (Foley) "We go to God's own home..."
2. Save Us, O Lord (Dufford) swak sa RP
3. Praise the Lord, My Soul


P of the G:
1. Blessed be God
2. Dwelling Place (Foley)
3. Earthen Vessels (Foley) Stanza 2 ang priority; swak sa G.
4. How shall I sing to God? ("...my life, witnessing and giving, risking and forgiving...")
5. One Bread, One Body (Foley)
6. To Be Your Bread (Haas) “Bring us home to You”


C: Ang dami ulit:
1. Now we remain: ("Now we remain with Jesus the Christ...") Lenten, pero swak sa eschatology.
2. Anima Christi ("...that I may praise Thee with Thy saints...")

3. Breath of God (Hatch, Francisco) Stanza 4 ang priority. This is starting to be my most favorite song.
4. God of Love (Schutte)
5. How Lovely is Your Dwelling Place (Aquino)
6. I Seek You For I Thirst (Valdellon) Stanzas 2 and 3 ang priority.
7. In Him Alone (Francisco)
8. On Eagle’s Wings (Joncas)
9. This Alone (Manion)
10. Turn to Me (Foley)
11. You Are Mine (Haas)
12. Here in this Place
13. I Am the Bread of Life (Toolan)
14. One Thing I Ask

R:
1. Before the sun burned bright (You are My Sons) (Schutte) "I called you each by name to share My home..."
2. Save Us, O Lord (Dufford)
3. Sing to the Mountains “You have saved my soul from death”