Year in Review 2016
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Disciples Assembly
Hosted by the Treasury Coordinator and Steering Committee member, Vino Guiang started by reciting the Prayer to Take Authority. Followed by a mini Praise and Worship led by Archie & Lelet Quevada. The first presentation by the Treasury Ministry included the Financials for the year ending December 31, 2015 as compared to 2014. Vino also showed the community the Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Statement for the Year Ending 12/31/2015. A Year to Year Trend Analysis of Tithes and Love Offerings showed a decline from 2012 to 2015. And on the Question and Answer portion, it was pointed out that even though there’s a declined in weekly receipts from tithes and love offerings, the end of the year statement still showed a positive net profit of around $1,200. One of the reasons were reduction on BLD expenses and a successful fund raising on our last dinner. Good job!
Read more... (Disciples Assembly)
Hosted by the Treasury Coordinator and Steering Committee member, Vino Guiang started by reciting the Prayer to Take Authority. Followed by a mini Praise and Worship led by Archie & Lelet Quevada. The first presentation by the Treasury Ministry included the Financials for the year ending December 31, 2015 as compared to 2014. Vino also showed the community the Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Statement for the Year Ending 12/31/2015. A Year to Year Trend Analysis of Tithes and Love Offerings showed a decline from 2012 to 2015. And on the Question and Answer portion, it was pointed out that even though there’s a declined in weekly receipts from tithes and love offerings, the end of the year statement still showed a positive net profit of around $1,200. One of the reasons were reduction on BLD expenses and a successful fund raising on our last dinner. Good job!
Read more... (Disciples Assembly)
ME 47 listens to the King and hears His voice
Give thanks to the Lord, for the ME 47 graduates who listened to and heard His voice during the Marriage Encounter weekend, held last November 18- 20 in Carteret, New Jersey. It was indeed a victorious weekend as the couples rekindled their love and shared their feelings with each other. The pastoral team was led by Msgr. Shetelick, with the presenting couples, Boyie and Stella Huelgas, and Lito and Gigi Vibar. The sponsoring class, auxies, intercessors and all those who served during the weekend were steadfast witnesses to God’s mighty will. The class of ME47 includes 13 couples: Ike and Debbie Amador, Antonio and Carina Asis, Eugenio and Evangeline Canete, Melencio and Dolores Carcamo, Mark and Escarlen Duran, Melvin Jr and Mary Grace Go, Jean Claude and Marie Jean-Bart, Paul and Jocelyn Magahis, Godwin and Angelina Nwogu, Oquamalam and Rita Ohia, Obiefuna and Juliana Okafor, Emmanuel and Jovita Owowo, Domingo and Antonette Tabobo. Blessed is he who comes in the Name of the Lord! “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Lk 23:43)
Give thanks to the Lord, for the ME 47 graduates who listened to and heard His voice during the Marriage Encounter weekend, held last November 18- 20 in Carteret, New Jersey. It was indeed a victorious weekend as the couples rekindled their love and shared their feelings with each other. The pastoral team was led by Msgr. Shetelick, with the presenting couples, Boyie and Stella Huelgas, and Lito and Gigi Vibar. The sponsoring class, auxies, intercessors and all those who served during the weekend were steadfast witnesses to God’s mighty will. The class of ME47 includes 13 couples: Ike and Debbie Amador, Antonio and Carina Asis, Eugenio and Evangeline Canete, Melencio and Dolores Carcamo, Mark and Escarlen Duran, Melvin Jr and Mary Grace Go, Jean Claude and Marie Jean-Bart, Paul and Jocelyn Magahis, Godwin and Angelina Nwogu, Oquamalam and Rita Ohia, Obiefuna and Juliana Okafor, Emmanuel and Jovita Owowo, Domingo and Antonette Tabobo. Blessed is he who comes in the Name of the Lord! “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Lk 23:43)
Forty-one attend the Washing of the Feet / Agony in the Garden Retreat
From one of the participant’s at the Washing of the Feet / Agony in the Garden BLD retreat held last Saturday, November 5 at the Divine Mercy Parish School library: “It was a humbling experience to go down on your knees and wash your friends’ feet while telling them you loved them or saying sorry for the times your may have hurt them. Washing my friends’ feet gave me a new perspective of how it is to serve your fellow human being with love and humility. Having my feet washed by everyone in the group and later being prayed over by somebody younger or someone you just met was such a very humbling and touching experience. It made me realize how Jesus humbled Himself to wash His disciples’ feet and taught me how I must change the way I serve my brethren with humility.”
Read more... (CN Nov 11, 2016)
From one of the participant’s at the Washing of the Feet / Agony in the Garden BLD retreat held last Saturday, November 5 at the Divine Mercy Parish School library: “It was a humbling experience to go down on your knees and wash your friends’ feet while telling them you loved them or saying sorry for the times your may have hurt them. Washing my friends’ feet gave me a new perspective of how it is to serve your fellow human being with love and humility. Having my feet washed by everyone in the group and later being prayed over by somebody younger or someone you just met was such a very humbling and touching experience. It made me realize how Jesus humbled Himself to wash His disciples’ feet and taught me how I must change the way I serve my brethren with humility.”
Read more... (CN Nov 11, 2016)
Forty-Seven lift up their hands at LSS
Forty-seven souls lifted their hands in jubilation as they received the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the Life in the Spirit Seminar on Oct 7-8 at the Divine Mercy Parish. The testimonies from the graduates of this LSS conveyed their gratitude for God’s saving mercy and for the gifts of the Holy Spirit they have each received. The Seminar Director, Father Paul Lehman, said to the Lambs, that the light they were holding was a sign of their faith. He told them to be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and to always be aware of His presence. As a “new creation” with a “new life” each of the 47 individuals expressed their personal mission, and resolved to let go off the past and not let it encumber the future. Our BLD Newark and Allentown Communities with one heart, commit ourselves to continue being the beacons for our newly baptized members. By loving each other, we exalt the Lord and bear the mark of a true servant of Christ as we recognize and express gratitude for His mercy! Read more... (CN Oct 14, 2016)
Forty-seven souls lifted their hands in jubilation as they received the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the Life in the Spirit Seminar on Oct 7-8 at the Divine Mercy Parish. The testimonies from the graduates of this LSS conveyed their gratitude for God’s saving mercy and for the gifts of the Holy Spirit they have each received. The Seminar Director, Father Paul Lehman, said to the Lambs, that the light they were holding was a sign of their faith. He told them to be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and to always be aware of His presence. As a “new creation” with a “new life” each of the 47 individuals expressed their personal mission, and resolved to let go off the past and not let it encumber the future. Our BLD Newark and Allentown Communities with one heart, commit ourselves to continue being the beacons for our newly baptized members. By loving each other, we exalt the Lord and bear the mark of a true servant of Christ as we recognize and express gratitude for His mercy! Read more... (CN Oct 14, 2016)
John 6 kids sing “Endless Praise”
The John 6 Crossings is an annual Pre-Youth Encounter Retreat conducted by the BLD Community’s John 6 Ministry in cooperation with the Youth Ministry. This retreat also serves as a formal entry for those children graduating from the Mark 10 Ministry into John 6. This year, because of John 6 Crossings 17, our ministry is proud to announce that, 18 children now continue to remain faithful in attending our weekly Friday worships. There their personal relationships with God will grow each week. The community was blessed with 21 candidates: John Argonza, Patrick Regis, Rafael Urmasa, Chidumeje Madubuko, Samuel Milevoix, Cherdan Petit, Christian Rivera, Antonio Idioma, Roman Manzo, Daniel Parale, Michael Castaneda, Antonio Escobinas, Branden Montemayor, Matthew Salazar, Temilola Akinwutan, Ellie Orozco, Claudine Lorico, Fiona Dela Paz, Gianna Austria, Chikamso Aniebue, and Ace Anunobi, all of whom experienced a Catholic retreat for the very first time. And to guide them through their journey with God, the ministry has discerned Chad Cebedo and Mary Kate Morales as their Class Shepherds, while Denny and Baby Dizon will serve as their Adult Shepherds. Read more... (CN Oct 14, 2016)
The John 6 Crossings is an annual Pre-Youth Encounter Retreat conducted by the BLD Community’s John 6 Ministry in cooperation with the Youth Ministry. This retreat also serves as a formal entry for those children graduating from the Mark 10 Ministry into John 6. This year, because of John 6 Crossings 17, our ministry is proud to announce that, 18 children now continue to remain faithful in attending our weekly Friday worships. There their personal relationships with God will grow each week. The community was blessed with 21 candidates: John Argonza, Patrick Regis, Rafael Urmasa, Chidumeje Madubuko, Samuel Milevoix, Cherdan Petit, Christian Rivera, Antonio Idioma, Roman Manzo, Daniel Parale, Michael Castaneda, Antonio Escobinas, Branden Montemayor, Matthew Salazar, Temilola Akinwutan, Ellie Orozco, Claudine Lorico, Fiona Dela Paz, Gianna Austria, Chikamso Aniebue, and Ace Anunobi, all of whom experienced a Catholic retreat for the very first time. And to guide them through their journey with God, the ministry has discerned Chad Cebedo and Mary Kate Morales as their Class Shepherds, while Denny and Baby Dizon will serve as their Adult Shepherds. Read more... (CN Oct 14, 2016)
Aspirants' Retreat 2016
Our BLD community was blessed with fifteen aspiring disciples who attended the most recent Aspirants’ Retreat on Sep. 30 – Oct. 2 at the CYO Retreat House. The weekend coincided with the feasts of St. Jerome and St Therese of the Child Jesus, saints who opened their hearts serving God. It was truly a spirit-filled weekend with Fr. Paul Lehman as the retreat master. Through teachings about discipleship, sharings from witnesses, and self-reflections (using the process of Ignatian Spirituality Discernment), the hearts of the aspirants were led through the possibilities of a life of service, continuing conversion, and a Christ-centered life-style. The fifteen aspirants were: Jonas & Emy Cebedo, Nena Dacula, Bo & Bing Frio, Rose Go, Deborah Leung, Eliza Literato, Rico Lopez, Nelson & Rose Manzo, Belinda Pacaira, Maria Fe Rangel, Runnie & Jo-an Santiago. We pray that each one will be inspired to seal their BLD covenant in the near future. Read more... ( CN Oct 7, 2016 )
Our BLD community was blessed with fifteen aspiring disciples who attended the most recent Aspirants’ Retreat on Sep. 30 – Oct. 2 at the CYO Retreat House. The weekend coincided with the feasts of St. Jerome and St Therese of the Child Jesus, saints who opened their hearts serving God. It was truly a spirit-filled weekend with Fr. Paul Lehman as the retreat master. Through teachings about discipleship, sharings from witnesses, and self-reflections (using the process of Ignatian Spirituality Discernment), the hearts of the aspirants were led through the possibilities of a life of service, continuing conversion, and a Christ-centered life-style. The fifteen aspirants were: Jonas & Emy Cebedo, Nena Dacula, Bo & Bing Frio, Rose Go, Deborah Leung, Eliza Literato, Rico Lopez, Nelson & Rose Manzo, Belinda Pacaira, Maria Fe Rangel, Runnie & Jo-an Santiago. We pray that each one will be inspired to seal their BLD covenant in the near future. Read more... ( CN Oct 7, 2016 )
BLD Newark 24th Anniversary Community Day Celebration
With temperatures soaring to what seemed like 110 degrees, Saturday, August 13 may well have been the hottest day of Summer 2016. Some 300 members and friends of BLD Newark, who attended the 24th Anniversary Celebration and Community Day last Saturday, will certainly remember this day and be grateful that the thunderstorms looming in the weather forecast, just days before, did not come. The day started with a morning prayer led by Malou and Butch Morales and the family of FE22. Later there was a Eucharistic Celebration led by Fr. Paul Lehman. The occasion provided everyone with the opportunity to thank the Lord; and then, to just be there to have fun, hang out, stroll, run, play, share stories and laugh. The heat seemed to dissipate when mellow voices, music and dance pervaded the park, as one after another, the Solo Parents, Singles, Youth, John 6 and Mark 10 Ministries presented numbers for an afternoon delight. It was like a concert in the park! Among the memorable numbers was the latest SPE class’ rendition of the Beatles’ song Let It Be, especially when everyone chimed in as they replaced the song’s famous lyrics with these instead: “Mother Mary comes to me…Speaking words of wisdom… BLD…BLD.” Read more... (CN August 19 2016)
With temperatures soaring to what seemed like 110 degrees, Saturday, August 13 may well have been the hottest day of Summer 2016. Some 300 members and friends of BLD Newark, who attended the 24th Anniversary Celebration and Community Day last Saturday, will certainly remember this day and be grateful that the thunderstorms looming in the weather forecast, just days before, did not come. The day started with a morning prayer led by Malou and Butch Morales and the family of FE22. Later there was a Eucharistic Celebration led by Fr. Paul Lehman. The occasion provided everyone with the opportunity to thank the Lord; and then, to just be there to have fun, hang out, stroll, run, play, share stories and laugh. The heat seemed to dissipate when mellow voices, music and dance pervaded the park, as one after another, the Solo Parents, Singles, Youth, John 6 and Mark 10 Ministries presented numbers for an afternoon delight. It was like a concert in the park! Among the memorable numbers was the latest SPE class’ rendition of the Beatles’ song Let It Be, especially when everyone chimed in as they replaced the song’s famous lyrics with these instead: “Mother Mary comes to me…Speaking words of wisdom… BLD…BLD.” Read more... (CN August 19 2016)
Youth Ministry encounter classes battle
This past weekend, BLD’s Youth Ministry hosted their yearly Battle of the Classes (BOTC). During one of the most anticipated events of the year, all the Youth Encounter classes were called to come together and compete in different sporting events. While each class battled against the others in friendly rivalry for first place, BOTC was essentially a competitive opportunity for the Youth to play with a lot of love and compassion towards one another. Everyone at BOTC had fun and enjoyed their entire day. They bonded with one another and became closer.
This year's events included relay races, tug of war, dodge-ball, basketball, and volleyball. The YE classes that took part in BOTC were split into different teams: YE 23, YE 22, YE 21, 20 and YE 19 (and earlier). Each class was awarded points for winning events, and the class with the most points at the end of the day won. Additionally, different awards, such as most clean, most respectful, most spirited, and most helpful were also given out to the classes that had earned these special recognition. Read more... ( CN August 12 2016 )
This past weekend, BLD’s Youth Ministry hosted their yearly Battle of the Classes (BOTC). During one of the most anticipated events of the year, all the Youth Encounter classes were called to come together and compete in different sporting events. While each class battled against the others in friendly rivalry for first place, BOTC was essentially a competitive opportunity for the Youth to play with a lot of love and compassion towards one another. Everyone at BOTC had fun and enjoyed their entire day. They bonded with one another and became closer.
This year's events included relay races, tug of war, dodge-ball, basketball, and volleyball. The YE classes that took part in BOTC were split into different teams: YE 23, YE 22, YE 21, 20 and YE 19 (and earlier). Each class was awarded points for winning events, and the class with the most points at the end of the day won. Additionally, different awards, such as most clean, most respectful, most spirited, and most helpful were also given out to the classes that had earned these special recognition. Read more... ( CN August 12 2016 )
BLD Teachers gather for a Forum at the DMP Library
Despite the weather that brought about an inch of rainfall, over fifty teachers of the Community attended the Teachers’ Forum that was held at the DMP library last Saturday. The goal of the forum was to enhance the formation needs of the community and burning hearts emerged as the common theme expounded on by the afternoon’s four speakers. Richard Dela Fuente started the Forum’s prepared presentations with “CDFP - Its History/Development/ Challenges.” He talked about how the CDFP that was created 20 years ago in Manila was developed to meet the challenges here in North America. He enumerated the dramatic changes that were incorporated into the program to adapt to the communities here, an effort that continues to evolve today. Read more... ( CN August 5, 2016)
Despite the weather that brought about an inch of rainfall, over fifty teachers of the Community attended the Teachers’ Forum that was held at the DMP library last Saturday. The goal of the forum was to enhance the formation needs of the community and burning hearts emerged as the common theme expounded on by the afternoon’s four speakers. Richard Dela Fuente started the Forum’s prepared presentations with “CDFP - Its History/Development/ Challenges.” He talked about how the CDFP that was created 20 years ago in Manila was developed to meet the challenges here in North America. He enumerated the dramatic changes that were incorporated into the program to adapt to the communities here, an effort that continues to evolve today. Read more... ( CN August 5, 2016)
BLD Disciples discuss important Community issues
The heat of a ninety degree afternoon in July did not deter around eighty BLD Newark disciples from attending the Disciples’ Assembly held last Saturday at the Divine Mercy Parish school auditorium. The members of the Steering Committee for the Disciples Assembly successfully gathered and presented some of the issues currently faced by the ministries in the five BLD apostolates. Issues ranged from ministry assignments, to this year’s fundraising raffle; from the need for more mission volunteers, to the request for people to submit material for the Covenant News. Read More...(CN July 29 2016)
The heat of a ninety degree afternoon in July did not deter around eighty BLD Newark disciples from attending the Disciples’ Assembly held last Saturday at the Divine Mercy Parish school auditorium. The members of the Steering Committee for the Disciples Assembly successfully gathered and presented some of the issues currently faced by the ministries in the five BLD apostolates. Issues ranged from ministry assignments, to this year’s fundraising raffle; from the need for more mission volunteers, to the request for people to submit material for the Covenant News. Read More...(CN July 29 2016)
Love and forgiveness rule at FE 23
There is no doubt that the readings from this past Sunday perfectly resounded throughout the most recent Family Encounter that was held at the Malvern Retreat House, July 15-17, 2016. Sometimes, we are like Martha, paying so much attention to all the things that do not matter as much to Him; but God shows us an example through Mary, reminding us to pay attention to what He reveals to us through His Word. It might not come swiftly, and it can certainly catch us by surprise, but His love is always there, persistent, as long as we are open to receiving His grace. At this FE, five families saw the triumph of Christ in their lives, enabling love and forgiveness to rule. Congratulations to the families of FE 23: *De Leon Family - Noel, Gale, Nate & Gabe, *Miguel Family - York, Denise, Anabelle, Christian & Brienna, Go Family - Rosemarie & Marielle, McKenzie Family - Vincent, Paule, Constance, Rhea, Darius, and the Palafox family - Jesus, Ofelia, Patricia Khin, Jessica Costelo.
Read More...(CN July 22 2016)
There is no doubt that the readings from this past Sunday perfectly resounded throughout the most recent Family Encounter that was held at the Malvern Retreat House, July 15-17, 2016. Sometimes, we are like Martha, paying so much attention to all the things that do not matter as much to Him; but God shows us an example through Mary, reminding us to pay attention to what He reveals to us through His Word. It might not come swiftly, and it can certainly catch us by surprise, but His love is always there, persistent, as long as we are open to receiving His grace. At this FE, five families saw the triumph of Christ in their lives, enabling love and forgiveness to rule. Congratulations to the families of FE 23: *De Leon Family - Noel, Gale, Nate & Gabe, *Miguel Family - York, Denise, Anabelle, Christian & Brienna, Go Family - Rosemarie & Marielle, McKenzie Family - Vincent, Paule, Constance, Rhea, Darius, and the Palafox family - Jesus, Ofelia, Patricia Khin, Jessica Costelo.
Read More...(CN July 22 2016)
Twenty-two teens take leap of Faith at YE 23
From July 8-10, 2016 at the Pine Hill Christian Retreat Center in Canadensis, PA, 22 teenagers took a leap of faith together at Youth Encounter #23. Fr. Paul Lehman, BLD Spiritual Director and a member of the weekend’s Study Team gave this blessing: “To the candidates and participants of YE 23, it is my joy once again to be a part of this, new experiences and the new infusion of young people into YE 23. Our youth leadership does amazingly well, and they exercise their ministry with seriousness and efficiency. The principles they learn on these weekends will not only help them to confront the confusion and immorality of our society, but also equip them for evangelization into the Truth revealed by Jesus and His Church. I am honored to be part of this weekend and the Youth Ministry. God’s blessing on you all. On their spiritual journey, these candidates learned more about themselves, their new YE family, and of course, God.” Read More...(CN July 15 2016)
From July 8-10, 2016 at the Pine Hill Christian Retreat Center in Canadensis, PA, 22 teenagers took a leap of faith together at Youth Encounter #23. Fr. Paul Lehman, BLD Spiritual Director and a member of the weekend’s Study Team gave this blessing: “To the candidates and participants of YE 23, it is my joy once again to be a part of this, new experiences and the new infusion of young people into YE 23. Our youth leadership does amazingly well, and they exercise their ministry with seriousness and efficiency. The principles they learn on these weekends will not only help them to confront the confusion and immorality of our society, but also equip them for evangelization into the Truth revealed by Jesus and His Church. I am honored to be part of this weekend and the Youth Ministry. God’s blessing on you all. On their spiritual journey, these candidates learned more about themselves, their new YE family, and of course, God.” Read More...(CN July 15 2016)
The BLD-Newark Community welcomes the Class of SPE-18!
On June 24-26, twenty four God-loving souls attended the Solo Parents Encounter #18 that took place at the Days Hotel & Conference Center in East Brunswick, NJ. In that small hotel by the NJ Turnpike, SPE18 listened to teachings, testimonies, and sharings; and by the end of the weekend they knew something was different in them. There was a sense of holiness, a sense of gratitude; all felt the love of God. The retreat was facilitated by Libby Maljian and Ofel Paypon, with Msgr. Paul Schetelick as the Spiritual Director. It was indeed a spirit-filled weekend. On Sunday morning, Monsignor addressed the 24 candidates and exclaimed that our truest identity is that we are temples of the Holy Spirit. He then took the sandals off his feet and proclaimed that he was standing on holy ground with the 24 candidates - the sons and daughters of the Holy Spirit. Read more... (CN July 1, 2016)
On June 24-26, twenty four God-loving souls attended the Solo Parents Encounter #18 that took place at the Days Hotel & Conference Center in East Brunswick, NJ. In that small hotel by the NJ Turnpike, SPE18 listened to teachings, testimonies, and sharings; and by the end of the weekend they knew something was different in them. There was a sense of holiness, a sense of gratitude; all felt the love of God. The retreat was facilitated by Libby Maljian and Ofel Paypon, with Msgr. Paul Schetelick as the Spiritual Director. It was indeed a spirit-filled weekend. On Sunday morning, Monsignor addressed the 24 candidates and exclaimed that our truest identity is that we are temples of the Holy Spirit. He then took the sandals off his feet and proclaimed that he was standing on holy ground with the 24 candidates - the sons and daughters of the Holy Spirit. Read more... (CN July 1, 2016)
Singles spring up with joy
June 24-26 was a blessed day for the BLD Singles community as they welcomed the new graduates of SE#36. Thirty-three candidates said yes to a weekend with God at Graymoor Spiritual Life Center in Garrison, New York. God really handpicked each one of them and brought them together for a purpose. Together with 4 facilitators, the retreat was also graced by Father Paul Lehman's presence as the Encounter’s Spiritual Director. In an especially moving homily during the Sunday Mass, Fr. Paul exhorted everyone to realize that the best gift one could give to BLD was simply “personal holiness.” His words now reverberate in the hearts of the graduates and the other Singles and BLD members and family who were there. During that Sunday’s graduation, eight were chosen to be the class coordinators; SE 36 is also blessed to have Tito Cy and Tita Mavil Loreto as their class shepherds. The retreat wouldn't have been possible without the help of the sponsoring class, auxies, praise and everyone present during the weekend. But most importantly, it was God's amazing love and grace that made this encounter a resounding success. Read more... (CN July 1, 2016)
June 24-26 was a blessed day for the BLD Singles community as they welcomed the new graduates of SE#36. Thirty-three candidates said yes to a weekend with God at Graymoor Spiritual Life Center in Garrison, New York. God really handpicked each one of them and brought them together for a purpose. Together with 4 facilitators, the retreat was also graced by Father Paul Lehman's presence as the Encounter’s Spiritual Director. In an especially moving homily during the Sunday Mass, Fr. Paul exhorted everyone to realize that the best gift one could give to BLD was simply “personal holiness.” His words now reverberate in the hearts of the graduates and the other Singles and BLD members and family who were there. During that Sunday’s graduation, eight were chosen to be the class coordinators; SE 36 is also blessed to have Tito Cy and Tita Mavil Loreto as their class shepherds. The retreat wouldn't have been possible without the help of the sponsoring class, auxies, praise and everyone present during the weekend. But most importantly, it was God's amazing love and grace that made this encounter a resounding success. Read more... (CN July 1, 2016)
BLD Singles Prays Twice in Elizabeth
Unbeknownst to many in BLD, for over a year now, the Praise group of the Singles Ministry has been supporting the parish community of St. Genevieve’s in Elizabeth, NJ. On the first Sunday of each month, they have been providing the music for the Church’s 7 pm Mass. Last Saturday evening, Prays Twice, as they are known by the churchgoers of St. Gen’s did something extra special. They put together a simple yet powerful event – “A Night of Praise and Worship.” For regular attendees of BLD, it wouldn’t have appeared like it was anything fancy - there was Adoration, Invocation; Readings and Reflections; Contrition and Supplications; Thanksgiving and Praise. There was also the special and unique brand of music that Singles Praise plays in Rahway every Friday. But what made it look easy was much effort and careful planning by the Praise Pillars of the Singles Ministry. Added to that simple formula was the presence of the Holy Spirit, Who multiplied everyone’s offerings, transforming two-hours on Saturday evening into a truly memorable night for the more than a hundred parishioners who had attended. Read more...(CN June 10, 2016)
Unbeknownst to many in BLD, for over a year now, the Praise group of the Singles Ministry has been supporting the parish community of St. Genevieve’s in Elizabeth, NJ. On the first Sunday of each month, they have been providing the music for the Church’s 7 pm Mass. Last Saturday evening, Prays Twice, as they are known by the churchgoers of St. Gen’s did something extra special. They put together a simple yet powerful event – “A Night of Praise and Worship.” For regular attendees of BLD, it wouldn’t have appeared like it was anything fancy - there was Adoration, Invocation; Readings and Reflections; Contrition and Supplications; Thanksgiving and Praise. There was also the special and unique brand of music that Singles Praise plays in Rahway every Friday. But what made it look easy was much effort and careful planning by the Praise Pillars of the Singles Ministry. Added to that simple formula was the presence of the Holy Spirit, Who multiplied everyone’s offerings, transforming two-hours on Saturday evening into a truly memorable night for the more than a hundred parishioners who had attended. Read more...(CN June 10, 2016)
Mark10 and John6 lead BLD in crowning Mother Mary
After worship last Friday, the Church at Divine Mercy Parish seemed to transform into a paparazzi scene as the children of the Mark 10 Ministry walked down the Church’s center aisle with flowers in hand to offer to our Blessed Mother. As the procession started, cell phones and cameras suddenly came out to take pictures of the adorable boys and girls, all of whom had dressed up for the special occasion. Not to be outdone, after Mark 10, many of the adults also proceeded to come up to Mary’s statue, offering flowers to honor her, while Mary Argonza of the John 6 Ministry beautifully sang the "Ave Maria." Read More... (CN May 27, 2016 )
After worship last Friday, the Church at Divine Mercy Parish seemed to transform into a paparazzi scene as the children of the Mark 10 Ministry walked down the Church’s center aisle with flowers in hand to offer to our Blessed Mother. As the procession started, cell phones and cameras suddenly came out to take pictures of the adorable boys and girls, all of whom had dressed up for the special occasion. Not to be outdone, after Mark 10, many of the adults also proceeded to come up to Mary’s statue, offering flowers to honor her, while Mary Argonza of the John 6 Ministry beautifully sang the "Ave Maria." Read More... (CN May 27, 2016 )
Papal envoy celebrates First Friday Mass at BLD Newark
Last Friday May 6th was not just any ordinary First Friday for BLD Newark. Yes, just as it is every First Friday, there was a Eucharistic Celebration at Divine Mercy Parish. But what made this Mass special was that the main celebrant happened to be the Permanent Observer of the Holy See (the Vatican) to the United Nations. The Papal Nuncio was Filipino Archbishop and Bohol native Bernardito Auza. The homily given by His Excellency highlighted the evening. In it, he aptly summarized the recent Papal Exhortation¸ Amoris Laetitia, which Pope Francis issued just last month, expounding on the Joy of Love – which was the essential message from the two recent Synods of Bishops held by the Catholic Church in 2014 and 2015. Read more... (CN May 13 2016 )
Last Friday May 6th was not just any ordinary First Friday for BLD Newark. Yes, just as it is every First Friday, there was a Eucharistic Celebration at Divine Mercy Parish. But what made this Mass special was that the main celebrant happened to be the Permanent Observer of the Holy See (the Vatican) to the United Nations. The Papal Nuncio was Filipino Archbishop and Bohol native Bernardito Auza. The homily given by His Excellency highlighted the evening. In it, he aptly summarized the recent Papal Exhortation¸ Amoris Laetitia, which Pope Francis issued just last month, expounding on the Joy of Love – which was the essential message from the two recent Synods of Bishops held by the Catholic Church in 2014 and 2015. Read more... (CN May 13 2016 )
To view the BLD Office Presentation portion of the Agenda, to submit the DA Feedback Form, and/or register for the BLD Office Learning Workshop - May 21, please click here.
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Disciples come together
About a hundred BLD Newark members gathered last Saturday at the Divine Mercy Parish Library for the first Disciples’ Assembly in 2016. After the opening praise and worship, lively and spirited discussions punctuated the presentations on several important issues for the Community, heartily providing encouraging evidence that the health of BLD is still very much on the minds of many. While revenues and expenses are always a difficult topic to begin with, the good news, as presented by BLD Treasurers Vino and Beth Guiang, is that collections for the calendar year 2015, together with monies from the BLD dinner-dance fundraiser, were enough to cover expenses during the year. Once again, the Good Lord has provided the Community with just enough to make ends meet. To face the ever-present stewardship challenge however, some cost saving measures were discussed and may soon be implemented. Already an issue in 2016 is that tithes and love offerings have been averaging much lower than in the past. Read more...(CN April 29, 2016) |
Holy Spirit comes down upon LSS 46
With thanksgiving in our hearts, we claim victory for the Lord at last week’s Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS#46). The beautiful encounter served as a powerful message of love reminding us that Jesus understood that His disciples would not be able to live the kind of life He had called them to, by their own strength and ability. He knew that they would need a supernatural source of strength, that they would need the strength and power of God Himself. So He promised His disciples the very Spirit of God, and on Pentecost that Spirit came down upon them, to remain with His people forever.
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows it. But you know it, because it remains with you, and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (Jn 14:16-18) Read more ( CN April April 15, 2016)
With thanksgiving in our hearts, we claim victory for the Lord at last week’s Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS#46). The beautiful encounter served as a powerful message of love reminding us that Jesus understood that His disciples would not be able to live the kind of life He had called them to, by their own strength and ability. He knew that they would need a supernatural source of strength, that they would need the strength and power of God Himself. So He promised His disciples the very Spirit of God, and on Pentecost that Spirit came down upon them, to remain with His people forever.
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows it. But you know it, because it remains with you, and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (Jn 14:16-18) Read more ( CN April April 15, 2016)
Holy Eucharist – Source Of Mercy
Last Saturday, a large number of BLD Newark members met in Divine Mercy auditorium to learn about the Holy Eucharist and experience God’s mercy. Deacon Serge Bernatchez easily explained with convincing arguments Christ’s presence in the host and how at communion (our spiritual food) we experience more than a union with Christ: we become what we consume, we become Christ-like. After receiving that source of mercy, we cannot stop doing works of mercy. We share the joy of helping one another, feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and participating in all the corporal works of mercy through our different BLD ministries.
Everybody was in awe upon viewing a video about the Miracle of Buenos Aires, “the Bleeding Host”. Father Paul Lehman had no difficulty afterwards to explain: 1) the Eucharistic presence (Christ’s living presence in the Eucharist), 2) transubstantiation, and 3) the mass as a sacrifice. He explained how at Mass, after we’ve asked, thanked, and praised God, He responds by giving us His Word: the readings and the Gospel (Liturgy of the Word). Then, after we’ve given ourselves with the bread and wine offering, God our Father receives in sacrifice His Son who gives us His Body and Blood to strengthen us for the road (Liturgy of the Eucharist). Read more (CN April 8 2016)
Last Saturday, a large number of BLD Newark members met in Divine Mercy auditorium to learn about the Holy Eucharist and experience God’s mercy. Deacon Serge Bernatchez easily explained with convincing arguments Christ’s presence in the host and how at communion (our spiritual food) we experience more than a union with Christ: we become what we consume, we become Christ-like. After receiving that source of mercy, we cannot stop doing works of mercy. We share the joy of helping one another, feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and participating in all the corporal works of mercy through our different BLD ministries.
Everybody was in awe upon viewing a video about the Miracle of Buenos Aires, “the Bleeding Host”. Father Paul Lehman had no difficulty afterwards to explain: 1) the Eucharistic presence (Christ’s living presence in the Eucharist), 2) transubstantiation, and 3) the mass as a sacrifice. He explained how at Mass, after we’ve asked, thanked, and praised God, He responds by giving us His Word: the readings and the Gospel (Liturgy of the Word). Then, after we’ve given ourselves with the bread and wine offering, God our Father receives in sacrifice His Son who gives us His Body and Blood to strengthen us for the road (Liturgy of the Eucharist). Read more (CN April 8 2016)
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Youth open their hearts in YLSS
This past weekend, the Youth Life in the Spirit Seminar #21 was blessed with the presence of 35 lambs: Isa Martinez, Issa Somera, Kathryn Guiang, Poochie Brillantes, Isabel Agapito, Melissa Sanagustin, Sherwin Fabe, Bertina Joseph, Carla Magdangal, Camille Martinez, Annabelle Malamug, Audrey Urmaza, Eliza Villarba, Kim Labang, Anamaria Pais, Bundu Anyanwu, Briege Julien, Ryan Bautista, Christopher Pasigna, Kerry Regis, Alvin Marmol, Karl Pepino, Spencer Fabe, Josh Mendoza, Christian Malamug, Joaquin Cariaso, Michael Rangel, Paolo Rivera, Thomas Digiuseppe, and DJ Severt. Read More...CN Mar 11 |
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BLD Newark Shares God’s Love in Tagbilaran, Bohol
In every mission we undertake, there are always memories that we can cherish forever. It is rather difficult to choose one that stands out because all can outlast the test of time. There is one common denominator among all, and that is the feeling of joy from realizing that what we have done is a manifestation that we are a loving and caring community. This joy is further enhanced by the prayers, love and support of our BLD global community, including but not limited to our ECSL and BLD Tagbilaran, and the cooperation and support of the provincial and city governments of Bohol and the capital city of Tagbilaran. Read more... CN Mar 4 2016 |
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_Fr. Paul SPEAKS... Holy Season of LENT
This holy season of LENT is viewed by most of us a personal challenge to conform our wills more carefully to that of Jesus’ will for us. And that is quite admirable. This is the ultimate goal of the Christian life, “to put on Jesus Christ and the power of his rising.” The additional time given to prayer and “giving up” of some legitimate pleasure are all part of the discipline of this holy season. The definition of a Christian is someone who has accepted Jesus as personal Lord. That means that Jesus runs our lives and is in charge of everything we do. In our honest moments we admit this is not happening as it should. We do some religious practices well, but we know there must be more. We have not totally surrendered. A Christian also recognizes that Jesus is our Savior. Do we really understand the challenges of being truly repentant and allowing Jesus to forgive us either in the Sacrament of Penance or privately in our prayerful moments of Scripture contemplation? These are the special moments in which the Spirit challenges us to look more within. Read more... CN Mar 4 2016
This holy season of LENT is viewed by most of us a personal challenge to conform our wills more carefully to that of Jesus’ will for us. And that is quite admirable. This is the ultimate goal of the Christian life, “to put on Jesus Christ and the power of his rising.” The additional time given to prayer and “giving up” of some legitimate pleasure are all part of the discipline of this holy season. The definition of a Christian is someone who has accepted Jesus as personal Lord. That means that Jesus runs our lives and is in charge of everything we do. In our honest moments we admit this is not happening as it should. We do some religious practices well, but we know there must be more. We have not totally surrendered. A Christian also recognizes that Jesus is our Savior. Do we really understand the challenges of being truly repentant and allowing Jesus to forgive us either in the Sacrament of Penance or privately in our prayerful moments of Scripture contemplation? These are the special moments in which the Spirit challenges us to look more within. Read more... CN Mar 4 2016
BLD children join GK cause
One of the greatest blessings of BLD is when the whole family is involved. On February 5, 2016 the Community’s youngest members made this most evident by launching a truly meaningful project – “Change for CHANGE”. Every Friday for the month of February, the Mark 10 and John 6 Ministries’ children will encourage the Community to bring their spare change to help the Scholarship of Hope Foundation, for the children in the Father Paul Lehman – UST Med Class ‘76 Gawad Kalinga Village in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. The kids will collect donations at fellowship, and after the collection is done in February, the selfless adult core members of the two ministries will buy school supplies in March and box them to be sent to the Philippines, in time for the children in Cabiao to use when school opens in June. They ask too that everyone bring in any unused school supplies and donate them for the GK children. Read More....(CN Feb12 2016)
One of the greatest blessings of BLD is when the whole family is involved. On February 5, 2016 the Community’s youngest members made this most evident by launching a truly meaningful project – “Change for CHANGE”. Every Friday for the month of February, the Mark 10 and John 6 Ministries’ children will encourage the Community to bring their spare change to help the Scholarship of Hope Foundation, for the children in the Father Paul Lehman – UST Med Class ‘76 Gawad Kalinga Village in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. The kids will collect donations at fellowship, and after the collection is done in February, the selfless adult core members of the two ministries will buy school supplies in March and box them to be sent to the Philippines, in time for the children in Cabiao to use when school opens in June. They ask too that everyone bring in any unused school supplies and donate them for the GK children. Read More....(CN Feb12 2016)
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BLD begins 2016 with a special Mass
The first BLD Friday-night celebration of 2016 was a truly special event. Not only was it the Salubungan Mass for the upcoming YLSS, but it also marked the return to BLD of a former member of BLD Newark’s Youth Ministry, Fr. Joe Valle, who served as the main celebrant of the Mass. (CN Jan15 2016) |
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