1st Sunday of Lent - Year B - February 18, 2024

 
We are very sorry for not posting anything last week for a very important reason. We are now on the First Sunday of Lent.
 
LENT is a short season of six weeks intended to prepare us for the great celebrations of Easter. The word Lent comes from the old Anglo-Saxon and Old German words for spring marked by days that lengthen. The idea of penitence and fasting during Lent may have begun in earlier, hungrier times as a means of spiritualizing real shortages of food at this time of year.
 
Reminders:
1. Walang Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Holy Thursday na ulit maririnig ang Gloria. Magfa-fasting tayo from the mirth of the angels when they sang Glory to God in the highest.
2. Walang Alleluia.
3. Walang flowers sa altar.
4. Turn down the volume. Minimize the musical instruments to be used. Musical instruments during Lent should give only the bare minimum, or just the necessary support to the singing. Sustenance lang. Baka nga mas maganda pa ang kalabasan kung mag-a capella tayo. Kailangan maramdaman and ma-realize ng mga taong assembled that this season is very distinct from other liturgical seasons, most especially Easter, and one way of doing that is ibang style ng ating pagiging liturgical music leader.
5. Instrumental solos are bawal kapag Lent. When movement of people ends (such as in the processional songs in entrance, preparation of the gifts, communion), immediately find an ending for the processional song. Halimbawa, sa communion, wala na namang taong nakapila para tumanggap ng communion. Huwag nang kumanta. Find an end. Tumahimik. Give the congregation an opportunity for silent reflection. Yung ibang parishes nga, tinitigil talaga yung kanta, no matter what part they are in, when movement of people ceases. Huwag nang maglagay ng 2nd communion song. People should be made aware to reflect so they won’t chit-chat. Silence is far better during the season of Lent.
6. During service songs, if you can apply these to the tune of pasyon, the congregation will surely notice, and thereby realize that this is a distinct season altogether. For example, if you can sing si Kristo ay namatay into the tune of pasyon...ginawa yan minsan sa parish. Also, you're encouraging enculturation.
 
The readings for the 1st Sunday of Lent Year B get us thinking how God is faithful even when we wander away from him. The first reading is the story of Noah's Ark. The psalm reminds us to be faithful. The second reading explains that the great flood in the time of Noah preceded our baptisms. And the gospel tells us that Jesus spent 40 days (like the 40 days of the flood) fasting in the desert and returned ready to spread his message.
 
The readings for the 1st Sunday of Lent Year B are rich in themes that delve into the essence of Lent as a period of renewal, repentance, and preparation for Easter. Here are some key themes drawn from these readings:
 

• Covenant and Promise: The first reading from Genesis highlights God's covenant with Noah, symbolizing a universal promise of salvation and a new beginning for humanity and all creation. This theme of covenant is foundational, reminding us of God's faithfulness and the enduring nature of His promises.

• Salvation and Baptism: The second reading from 1 Peter connects the story of Noah to the sacrament of Baptism. It emphasizes Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection as the ultimate act of reconciliation between humanity and God. Baptism is presented not merely as a ritual cleansing but as a profound commitment to live in accordance with God's will, empowered by Christ's victory over death.

• Temptation and Victory: The Gospel from Mark describes Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, reflecting the trials and temptations that believers face. Jesus' victory over these temptations, supported by angels and in the presence of wild beasts, symbolizes His divinity and human strength, offering hope and encouragement for followers to overcome their own temptations.

• Repentance and the Kingdom of God: Jesus' message after His time in the wilderness focuses on the call to repentance and the urgent announcement of the Kingdom of God. This theme is central to the Lenten journey, urging believers to reflect, turn away from sin, and embrace the Gospel message with renewed commitment.

• New Beginnings and Preparation: Lent is a season of preparation, mirroring Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness. This time is an invitation for personal and communal reflection, repentance, and preparation for the celebration of Easter, symbolizing the new life and hope that comes from Jesus' resurrection.

• Divine Protection and Support: The readings convey a sense of divine protection and support through God's promises, Christ's victory over temptation, and the guiding presence of angels. This reassurance is a source of strength and comfort for believers as they navigate their Lenten journey.

Entrance:
1.       Tun-I Kami Ginoo
2.       Pasaylo, Ginoo
3.       Alay sa Kapwa (Esteban & Hontiveros) 
4.       Buksan ang aming puso (Tinio & Hontiveros)
5.       Save us, O Lord (Dufford)
6.       Though the mountains may fall (Schutte)

Kyrie:
1.      Kaloy-I Kami Ginoo
2.      Panginoon Maawa Ka (Francisco)
3.      As we Prepare
 
No Gloria
 
READINGS:

• First Reading: Genesis 9:8-15: God establishes a covenant with Noah, his descendants, and every living creature, promising no future floods will destroy all life. The rainbow, set in the clouds, symbolizes this perpetual covenant, a reminder to God and humanity of this promise.

• Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25: Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant.

I ask the Lord to teach me His ways, trusting in His salvation. Remembering His mercy and love, He guides the humble, showing the paths of righteousness to those who follow His covenant.

• Second Reading: 1 Peter 3:18-22: Christ suffered for our sins to reconcile us with God, resurrected in spirit. He preached to spirits from Noah's time, paralleling baptism that saves us—not by physical cleansing but as a commitment to God, empowered by Christ's resurrection and heavenly reign.

• Gospel: Mark 1:12-15: After a period of forty days in the wilderness, facing Satan's temptations among wild beasts and aided by angels, Jesus commenced his public ministry in Galilee. He proclaimed the nearness of God's kingdom, urging repentance and acceptance of the gospel, especially following John's arrest, marking a pivotal moment in his mission.
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Offertory:
1.      O Dios Dawata (Koro Viannista)
2.      Kini Mao Akong Lawas
3.      Alay Kapwa (Tinio & Hontiveros) 
4.      Kung ‘Yong nanaisin (Francisco) 
5.      Take and Receive
6.      Prayer of Rupert Mayer 
 
Sanctus:
1.     Santos (Mass 4 Villanueva)
2.     Santos (Bukas Palad)
3.     Sanctus (pwede yung latin chant or yung English translation)
 
Acclamation:
1.      Manluluwas sa Kalibutan
2.      Si Kristo’y Namatay (Hontiveros)
3.      Dying
 
Amen:
1.      Amen (chord of A D)
2.      Amen (Francisco, Arboleda, Reyes, Torres)
 
Pater Noster:
At your choice… If the congregation can participate to sing this, that would be better.
 
Doxology:
1.      Kay Imo Man (Chord of Am)
2.      Sapagkat
3.      For the Kingdom
 
Agnus Dei:
1.      Kordero sa Dios IV (chord of Dm-B)
2.      Kordero ng Dios (Que)
3.      Lamb of God (Folk)
 
Communion:
1.      Misyon sa Tawo
2.      Ang Atong Tulubagon
3.      Ang Tawo Niining kalibutan
4.      O Krus Kaluwasan
5.      Awit ng Paghilom
6.      Halina’t Lumapit sa Akin 
7.      Maging Akin Muli (Aquino)
8.      Pagkabighani 
9.      Sa Dapit Hapon (Tabuena and Hontiveros)
10.  Manatili Ka (Francisco)
11.      Now we remain (Haas) 
12.      God of silence (Francisco) 
13.      Holy Darkness (Schute) 
14.  Anima Christi (Arboleda) 
 
Recessional:
1.      Asin ug Kahayag
2.      Kinsa?
3.      Sinong Makapaghihiwalay (Anunciata)
4.      Maliban sa Mahulog sa Lupa
5.      (See entrance song)
 
 

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year B - February 4, 2024

 
We are now on the 5^th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B and we are grateful for your support by visiting us here always.
 
The readings for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B cause us to reflect on Jesus’ power to heal us, both physically and spiritually. In the first reading, Job laments that he is experiencing so much misery and despair. But the psalm reminds us to “Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.” The Gospel tells how Jesus cured Peter’s mother in law, freed those possessed by demons, and preached in the area.

• Human Suffering and Quest for Meaning: Job's lament in the first reading highlights the profound struggle of human suffering and the search for meaning amidst life's trials. This theme resonates with anyone grappling with pain, loss, or hardship.

• Divine Compassion and Healing: Contrasting with human suffering, the Responsorial Psalm and the Gospel emphasize God's compassion and healing power. This theme underscores the Christian belief in a God who cares deeply about human affliction and actively works to restore and heal.

• Service and Sacrifice in Ministry: Paul's reflections in the second reading on his role as an apostle underscore the themes of selfless service and sacrifice. His commitment to preaching the Gospel without seeking personal gain highlights the Christian call to serve others.

• The Power of Jesus' Ministry: The Gospel reading showcases Jesus' authority over illness and evil forces, underlining the theme of the transformative power present in Jesus' ministry. It shows the inauguration of a new era of divine action in the world.

• Solitude and Prayer: Jesus seeking solitude for prayer, despite the demands of his ministry, emphasizes the importance of prayer and communion with God. This theme is a reminder of the need for spiritual nourishment and reflection in the midst of active service.

• The Role of the Community in Faith: The interactions between Jesus and those he heals, as well as the actions of the disciples, highlight the theme of community in the Christian journey. It shows how faith is lived and experienced within a community, and how the community plays a role in supporting, nurturing, and participating in the mission of the Church.

These themes for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B collectively offer a rich and multifaceted insight into Christian life, emphasizing the balance between personal spirituality and communal engagement, between human struggle and divine grace, and between active service and contemplative prayer.
 
Entrance Song:
1. Lungsod nga Balaan
2. Diha sa Halaran
3. Bayan, Umawit (Borres, Baltazar, Francisco) Pag-aalaala (Francisco)
4. Sing to the Mountains (Dufford) “You have answered my plea.”
5. Come With Praise (Schutte) Prioritize Stanza 3.
 
Readings:

• First Reading – Job 7:1-4, 6-7: Job laments life's hardships, comparing his suffering to a laborer's toil and a slave's longing for relief. His nights are restless, his days joyless, feeling his life fleeting like the wind.

• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 147: Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.

Praise the Lord for His kindness and mercy. He restores and unites, heals the brokenhearted, and knows all creation intimately. He uplifts the humble, humbling the wicked.

• Second Reading –1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23: Preaching the gospel is my entrusted duty, not a ground for pride. My reward lies in sharing it freely, adapting to serve all, with the hope of sharing in its blessings.

• Gospel – Mark 1:29-39: Jesus healed Simon's mother-in-law at her home. That evening, many sick and demon-possessed were brought to him; he healed them, not allowing demons to speak. Seeking solitude, Jesus prayed in the early morning. Urged by his followers, he continued his mission, preaching and exorcising demons throughout Galilee.

 
Offertory:
1. Gasa sa Gugma (Koro Viannista)
2. Diyutay lang Kini (Koro Viannista)
3. Dios Nia Ko
4. Narito Ako (San Andres) Prioritize stanza 2
5. Mula Sa’Yo (Francisco)
6. Paghahandog ng Sarili
7. Dwelling Place (Foley)
8. Earthen Vessels (Foley)
 
Communion:
1. Gugma’g Paglaum (Fernandez)
2. Ang Kinabuhing Mahinungdanon
3. Natawag Ko na Ikaw
4. O Hesus, Hilumin Mo (Francisco)
5. Awit ng Paghilom (Aquino)
6. Pagsibol (Aquino)
7. Gabing Kulimlim (Arboleda, Francisco)
8. Far Greater Love (Go, Francisco)
9. God of Silence (Francisco)
10. I Seek You for I Thirst (Valdellon)
11. In Him Alone (Francisco)
12. Lead me Lord (De Pano)
13. Your Heart Today (Francisco)
14. Here I am Lord, swak sa Gospel
 
Recessional:
1. Kinsa?
2. Ang Tawag
3. Humayo’t Ihayag (Francisco, Catalan, Go)
4. Magpasalamat Kayo sa Panginoon (Ramirez) prioritize stanza 2
5. I Will Sing Forever (Francisco)
6. All My Days (Schutte, Murray)
7. My Heart’s Thanksgiving (Aquino)

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year B - January 28, 2024

 
Ipagpaumanhin po ninyo at natagalan ang ating update this week. Namatay po kasi ang aking ama last Monday at sa Sabado pa ang libing. Nataon na namatay pa siya sa bisperas pa ng birthday ko which is January 23. Please include him (Jimmy Gangca) sa inyong mga prayers. Thank you po.
 
The readings for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (see below) invite us to recognize Jesus and grant him authority in our lives. In the first reading, Moses foretells the coming of a mighty prophet. The Gospel tells how the people were amazed by the way Jesus taught with authority. The readings for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, encompass several interwoven themes that are central to Christian theology and spiritual life:
 

• Prophetic Authority and Divine Truth: The first reading from Deuteronomy speaks of a prophet like Moses, emphasizing the importance of heeding true prophetic voices that convey God's will and truth. This theme of authoritative teaching is echoed in the Gospel, where Jesus' teachings are contrasted with those of the scribes.

• Divine Guidance and Obedience: Psalm 95 calls for joyful praise and worship of God, recognizing Him as our creator and guide. It emphasizes listening to God's voice and avoiding the hard-heartedness of our ancestors, underscoring the importance of obedience to divine guidance.

• Undistracted Devotion to God: The second reading from 1 Corinthians discusses the states of married and unmarried life, highlighting how the unmarried can focus more directly on pleasing the Lord. This theme of undistracted devotion is relevant to understanding different vocations and the ways they can lead to holiness.

• The Authority of Jesus: The Gospel reading vividly demonstrates Jesus' divine authority, not just in teaching but also in his power over unclean spirits. His authority impresses and amazes the people, revealing him as a figure of divine power and wisdom.

• Recognition of Christ's Power: The reaction of the congregation in the Gospel to Jesus' exorcism and teaching underlines the theme of recognizing and responding to Christ's power and authority. This response of amazement and the spread of Jesus' fame throughout Galilee are central to understanding the impact of Jesus' ministry.

These themes for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. collectively focus on the recognition and acceptance of divine authority, the call to obedient and joyful worship, the importance of discerning true prophetic voices, and the unique and powerful role of Jesus Christ in salvation history. They offer rich material for reflection on how Christians are called to respond to God’s word and authority in their everyday lives.

Entrance:
1.     Diha sa Halaran, swak sa Psalm “Dayga ang Ginoo”
2.     Daygon ta ang Ginoo, swak pa rin sa Psalm “Dagyga ang Ginoo”
3.     Awit ng Pasasalamat (Hontiveros)
4.     Pag-aalaala (Francisco) Prioritize Stanza 2.
5.     All I ask of you (Norbet)
6.     Blest be the Lord (Schutte)
 
Readings:
·       First Reading – Deuteronomy 18:15-20: Moses declares God's promise to raise a prophet like him from among the people. This prophet, carrying God's words, must be heeded, with consequences for false prophecy.
·       Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 95: If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Let us joyfully praise the Lord, our salvation's rock. In worship, remember He is our creator and guide. Heed His voice today, avoiding the hardness of heart shown by our ancestors.
·       Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 7:32-35: The unmarried are encouraged to focus solely on pleasing the Lord, free from worldly distractions. Married individuals naturally divide attention between the Lord and their spouse. This advice is for undistracted devotion.
·       Gospel – Mark 1:21-28: In Capernaum's synagogue, Jesus' authoritative teaching awed listeners, contrasting with the scribes. His authority was further displayed when He commanded an unclean spirit to exit a possessed man. The spirit's obedience, marked by convulsions and a loud cry, left the congregation amazed. They marveled at Jesus' powerful teachings and control over unclean spirits. This incident quickly elevated Jesus' reputation throughout Galilee.
 

Offertory:
1.     O Dios Dawata (Koro Viannista)
2.     Diyutay lang Kini
3.     Ang Tanging Alay Ko
4.     Narito Ako (San Andres) Prioritize Stanza 2.
5.     Narito Ako, Panginoon (Que)
6.     Prayer for Generosity (Arboleda)
7.     To Be Your Bread (Haas)
 
Communion:
1.     Ang Kinabuhing Mahinungdanon
2.     Ang Tawo niining Kalibutan
3.     Kini maong Akong Lawas
4.     Awit ng Paghilom (Aquino)
5.     Kaibigan
6.     Halina, Lumapit sa Akin (Isidro, Que) Best choice.
7.     Hesus ng Aking Buhay (Aquino)
8.     Huwag Kang Mangamba (Pagsanghan, Francisco)
9.     Huwag Limutin (Aquino)
10.   H’wag Mangamba (Francisco)
11.   Far Greater Love (Go, Francisco)
12.   God of Silence (Francisco)
13.   Here I Am, Lord (Schutte)
 
Recessional:
1.     Ang Atong Tulubagon
2.     Kinsa?
3.     Ang Tawag
4.     Magpasalamat sa Kanya (Ramirez)
5.     O Bayan ng Dios (Aquino)
6.     My Heart’s Thanksgiving (Aquino)
 

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year B - January 14, 2024

 
We are very sorry that we don’t have any updates for the past two weeks because of some financial problems that we need to prioritize family needs.
 
The readings for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invite us to hear God calling and to respond. In the first reading, God calls to Samuel, and he replies. The psalm speaks of waiting for the Lord and answering. The Gospel tells of the call of the first apostles.
 
Themes:

• Discipleship and Following: The theme of discipleship and following Jesus is evident as John the Baptist's disciples choose to follow Jesus after his testimony. This highlights the transformative power of encountering Jesus.

• Messiah and Recognition: The recognition of Jesus as the Messiah is a central theme as Andrew proclaims, "We have found the Messiah." This emphasizes the pivotal moment when individuals recognize Jesus' divine identity.

• Invitation and Relationship: Jesus' invitation to "come and see" underscores the theme of forming a personal relationship. This highlights the importance of encountering Jesus firsthand and developing a personal connection.

• Name Change and Identity: The theme of name change and identity emerges as Jesus renames Simon to Cephas (Peter), which means "rock." This symbolizes Peter's future role and underscores the transformative impact of encountering Jesus.

• Personal Testimony: Andrew's excited testimony to his brother Simon introduces the theme of personal testimony. This highlights the significance of sharing one's personal experiences with Jesus to invite others into a relationship with Him.

• Response to Jesus' Call: Simon's immediate response to Jesus' call showcases the theme of obedience. His willingness to leave his nets and follow Jesus reflects the radical nature of responding to Jesus' call.

 
Entrance:
1.    Pag-inambitay
2.    Diosnong Magtutudlo (swak sa Gospel)
3.    Purihin ang Panginoon
4.    Halina at Lumapit
5.    Sing to the Mountains
6.    Blest be the Lord
 
Readings:

• First Reading - 1 Samuel 3:3B-10, 19: In the temple, young Samuel hears the Lord's voice thrice but confuses it for Eli. Eli recognizes the divine call and advises Samuel to respond, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." Samuel obeys, and from then on, he grows in God's presence, with his words carrying significance.

• Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 40: Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

With patient anticipation, I waited for the Lord. He inclined to my plea, gracing me with a new song of praise. I offer not sacrifices, but an open ear to obey. In the scroll, it's written—my joy is in fulfilling Your will, and Your law resides within my heart. I proclaim Your righteousness boldly, my lips unbridled in the assembly.

• Second Reading - 1 Corinthians 6:13C-15A, 17-20: Remember, our bodies are meant for the Lord, a temple of the Holy Spirit. United with Christ, we must avoid immorality, as it dishonors both ourselves and God. We were bought at a cost, so let's honor Him in our bodies.

• Gospel - John 1:35-42: John the Baptist points out Jesus as the Lamb of God. Two of his disciples decide to follow Jesus, and he invites them to see where he stays. Andrew, one of the disciples, excitedly tells his brother Simon Peter that they've found the Messiah, and Jesus gives Peter a new name, Cephas (Peter).

 

Offertory:
1.      Dios Nia Ko (swak sa 2^nd reading “magtugyan sa inyong kaugalingon ngadto sa pag-alagad sa Ginoo”)
2.      O Dios Dawata (Koro Viannista)
3.      Ginoo Walay Sukod (Juris of MYMP) “I don’t know if pang offertory ba jud siya but the lyrics seems to be for offertory”
4.      Diyutay Lang Kini (Koro Viannista)
5.      Mugna sa Dios (Koro Viannista)
6.      Panalangin sa Pagiging Bukas Palad (Arboleda, Francisco)
7.      Narito Ako (San Andres)
8.      Narito Ako, Panginoon (Que)
9.      Prayer for Generosity (Arboleda)
 
Communion:
1.      Kini Maong Akong Lawas (Koro Viannista)
2.      Natawag ko na Ikaw (swak sa 2^nd reading)
3.      Ang Kinabuhing Mahinungdanon (swak sa 2^nd Reading)
4.      Kalig-on sa Pagtoo
5.      Awit ng Paghilom (Aquino) 
6.      Awit ng Paghahangad (Cenzon)
7.      H’wag Mangamba (Francisco)
8.      Manatili Ka (Francisco)
9.      O Hesus, Hilumin Mo (Francisco)
10.  Pagkakaibigan (Cenzon, Abad-Santos)
11.  God of Silence (Francisco)
12.  Here I Am, Lord (Schutte)
13.  On Eagle’s Wings (Joncas)
14.  You are mine (Haas)
15.  Your Heart Today (Francisco)
 
Recessional:
1.      Ang Tawag (Koro Viannista version)
2.      Kinsa?
3.      Ang Atong Tulubagon
4.      O Bayan ng Diyos (Aquino) Prioritize Stanza 2
5.      I am the Bread of Life (Toolan). Prioritize Stanza 5

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)

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)