 |
|
 |
||||||
 |
|
 |
||||||
 ”Bienvenida Party: the Welcome Party for Everybody“ By: Sem. Eugene Parayaoan
Bienvenida is basically in Latin, coming from the root words ‘bien’ which means ‘well’ and ‘veni’ which means ‘to come’. In short, bienvenida means ‘welcome’.
We, Filipinos, are already used to the custom of welcoming a newly arrived person, like a balikbayan, new officers etc., by means of having a sort of a party to welcome them. This gives our guests a feeling that they belong to our family. Here in the seminary, we had the bienvenida party 2007 held on the 22nd of June, 2007.
A party was meant to welcome our freshmen and sophomore newcomers and in return, they introduced themselves to the whole community. They surprised with their talents they showed during the program, but before that, we first had a very mouth- watering dinner which began with the celebration of the birthday of one of our beloved teachers, Ms. Jovita T. Gonzalo. After the dinner, the party began. The fluent emcees that brightened the whole show were seminarians Job Eric Arano and John Erickson Baligad.It was started with a doxology number by the Junior class and followed by the opening remarks of Rev. Edilberto A. Calderon, who was quoted, ”I’m speechless.“ After this, there was a condensed band composed of freshmen and sophomores which was dubbed, ”Hard Boiled Eggs“. The show began and the freshmen started their ”self-introduction“ which composed their backgrounds, dreams, etc. They impressed the community with their looks, killer smiles, styles of walking, manner of speaking, etc. They all shared to us what their dreams are and what their purpose of entering here is. Some of their reasons that reccur into my mind are: ”I want to become more independent...“ ”I want to be more disciplined...“ ”I want to become a priest...“ ”I want to follow my brother...“ so on & so forth. After the freshmen, the new 4 sophies introduced themselves. Afterwards, the newcomers’ Senior brothers pricked on them their Marian Pins as a symbol of their admittance here in the seminary. After these, the time came to end the program and Rev. Fr. Jerimias B. Cera gave the closing remarks. He welcomed back one of the Juniors, Seminarian Renz Daryll Soriano, after a week of mysterious absence and the show ended there. To summarize, the program brought us closer to the newcomers and it gave them feelings of belonging here.
I wish that we would stand strong throughout this school year and I wish all of the newcomers [not only them but also the whole community]would not turn their backs to the call of Christ, that is, to become good priests or to any profession they are called. ”BIENVENIDA, newcomers! Welcome to the Seminary.“
”Class Convocation: The Juniors’ Remedy for the Stressed Mind“ By: Edward Clyde Jesus S. Delos Reyes
”Laughter is the best medicine…“ a very popular adage which is commonly and naturally stated in the fields of entertainment such as comic strips, television shows, programs and segments, short stories, plays, skits, convocations and many more.
Speaking of entertainment, do you know what a ”Convocation“ is and what it serves to give entertainment and relief to all? Convocation is an hour-long program wherein seminarians of every class showcase their talents, skills, and abilities may it be of dancing, acting, singing, cracking of jokes and so forth with a variety of genres. Convocation is that gathering and program of seminarians not only to showcase their unique talents but also to show them off with the highest level of performance topped with firm and wholesome determination they possibly give. But the true means of setting up a convocation as an activity in the seminary is that convocation is the stepping stone towards tightening and strengthening the bonds of unity and cooperation, and displaying the closeness and intimacy of a class as a whole. Moreover, convocation is a contest of close relationships, union and bond within a class, with every year level a contestant.
After the spectacular program was presented by the senior class to the community, it was now our turn the –the Juniors’ turn– to craft a convocation that would touch the hearts of the audience and together make them laugh heartily. Our convocation, as said by critics, was an original for there was a variety of schemes like drama, comedy, action and a conversion. The concept of our program was about love, family problems, obstacles in life, temptation, regret, turning over a new leaf, realization of dreams and success in life. To sum up the idea of the play, it was about the ”Circle of Life.“
The story unfolds with an unlikely couple, Balong and Pabla who have decided to get married and share their dreams with one another. The fruit of their love is a baby boy whom they named ”Juni Balbuni“, a child who was nurtured with love and discipline, who had grown to be a healthy and vigorous young boy –in the spirit. But before spoiling the whole story, let us not forget to have a peek behind the scenes –”Practice days.“
We the Juniors, were given two whole weeks to prepare an impressive presentation. Some of us gave suggestion on the storyline and majority of the class chose ”The Life of Juni Balbuni“. At first we had a hard time thinking of dialogues and scripts, and trying to remind every other member of the class to cooperate. Soon our burden turned out to be lighter when discipline and unity materialized among us, as a class.
Going back to the story… As Juni grew up, he got himself involved in illegal affairs: drinking smoking and addiction to drugs. When Balong finally discovered his son’s vices, Juni was immediately sent out of the house. He became a rebel and there was tension in the family. Later, he came across the death of his father and finally realized the very big mistake he had done. As a conversion, he and his life-long friend who he had turned away from before entered the seminary. Their vocation developed through their fruitful years of stay in the formation house. Finally on the latter part of the story, Juni successfully finished his studies and became a priest. He presided over the wedding ceremony of his life-long buddy and the lady of his choice, Bebang. Juni and his friend thanked each other for the friendship they did not abandon. And this is where the story of a boy who rebelled against his parents, involved himself in illegal affairs, coming to realize his mistakes, turning over a new leaf. And finally becoming a servant of God, a priest, ends.
At the end of the show, everyone cheered for our success and we were satisfied. It really paid to give all our efforts and all our best. Entirely, we made a lot of effort and exertion to give life and bring out the magic in the play… but all the more, we had the fun and excitement of our lives. It could be seen in the fruit of our convocation the joy we had spent together, with the joy we had shared with the audience. This, my friends, is the Junior Class’ remedy for the stressed mind, ”Entertainment.“
Sophomore Class Convocation- A Key for the Door to Excellence By: Patrick Abad
An exciting, energetic, and inspiring program was presented by the sophomore class on their class convocation. The sophomores had exerted much effort in practices in order for them to attain success—a success that would make others aspire to do the same.
What is a convocation anyway? Well, a convocation is a SHOWCASE OF TALENTS which the seminarians should manage under one program within one hour. Are you aware that your seminarian son already knows how to act on stage? Or to sing or dance? Well, you would already know it and be proud of them because he already knows how to use them properly in the right time. And if you know some talents that your son possesses and he does not develop it nor show it to you, then you better tell him to develop and nourish it before God takes it away from him like what had happened with the person to whom God has entrusted to a piece of talent. Because of his fear that he would lose it when he would use it, he just hid it and it did not prosper. While the others who got plenty of talents developed them and the talents doubled their quantity.
In order to unify the class the sophomores had undertaken this challenge –they presented a presentable program --willingly without complaint. Working with full concentration, they showed presentable program.
Do you know other reasons why you should be proud of your seminarian sons? Well here are some reasons. One reason is that they did not become cowards but instead they undertook the task of presenting a program of their own at their own initiative. Another reason is that they did not become shy but they saw the bright and positive side of nourishing their talents especially of the hidden ones.
They are not yet professional scriptwriters, actors, singers or dancers, yet they faced problems and failures successfully. But don’t worry about your sons because it is when they experience failures that they become more experienced in doing things better and they have learned to rise up from their failures and strive to do better. For we are aware that if we fall on one stone, we do not repeat falling on the same stone. I know and I believe that this will be what the seminarians would experience.
I hope that the seminary would continue to offer tasks to the seminarians which would certainly sharpen their skills and would be a great key that would open their locked door of EXCELLENCE…
Freshmen Convocation By: Sem. Emmanuel de Luna
What is convocation? Why does the seminary make it a regular event?
Convocation is a program which is a showcase of the class’ talents. It was started last year and the seminary made it a habit so that we will know more about our fellow seminarians and strengthen our bond with them. Last September 12, 2007, the freshmen class displayed their talents in their convocation to the best of their abilities to compete with our senior, junior, and sophomore brothers who also showed good presentations, and to show other people that seminarians know how to cooperate. They did their best to make it presentable because the winner will be given a class outing.
The title of the convocation was MASKARNABAL. The program was opened with a doxology entitled ”I Will Sing Forever“. Selected sophomores and junior seminarians offered intermission numbers. The story was about a sad boy who was reprimanded by her mother because he accidentally spent the money for his family’s food when he went to a carnival with almost all of it fakery. He has two spirit guides: a man who is always contradicting the woman who wanted to help the boy. The boy finally found out that the carnival was imaginary. So he told GOD that he couldn’t stay in this unfair world any longer.
In order to present a nice program, the freshmen were given time to practice it every night. Some of them showed their skills in acting. Some operated the music and the lights. Many were able to show their talents in playing musical instruments like guitars, piano, and drums. They were very thankful for the help given by Fr. Jonathan Songcuan: the costumes, the make-up, and the set. By doing their best, they made the convocation successful.
4th year Convocation By: Ely Reintar Jr.
Last June 28, 2007, the seniors had their convocation. Convocation comes from the Latin word, ”Conventus“ meaning, ”assembly“. In a global point of view, convocation is an assembly of persons convoked, an assembly of Bishops and representative and clergy of the church. For us seminarians, convocation is cultivating and enhancing our talents and abilities. It is an assembly of the class wherein they would make productions so that they make may present them to the seminary community.
We, the 4th year seminarians named our class ”Spartans“. Yes, it’s because we are unbreakable and skillful. All of us agreed that this will be our name because Spartans are really committed to each other and that’s what we like to be. Globally, Spartans is a great warrior; but for us, SPARTANS means ”Selected People And Righteous Teens ‘Astigin’ ng Seminary. During our convocation we had produced a very nice presentation because all of us contributed to the success of it. Our convocation portrayed a lapse of 10 years after our graduation. Some became priests, some lawyers, musicians, soldiers, nurses, engineers and the like. Although we have our different professions, we still do not forget our home: MHCS! It is where we were formed and molded. These were the actors:
PBA Players: Ely Reintar, Jr. Victor Chiong – Table Tennis Joseph Pangilinan – Dart Player Musicians: Jo Alfonso Garcia Michael Dominic Guibani Thomas Lawrence Rulloda Alfredo Bautista Priest: Ely Reintar, Jr. Job Eric Arano Kenneth Quimo Joker: Hersheys Bravo
Nursing: Michael Quinto Justin Espino Soldier: Christian Saranilla Dave Marlowe Duran Doctor: Michael de Guzman Models: Roven Ancheta Mark Macalanda Scientist: Dominic dela Cruz Governor: Justin Espino
Truly, this convocation plays an important role in our life as seminarians. It is where we show our talents and abilities. It is where we show our hidden talents and nurture our vocation here in the seminary. It is where we work as a group and put our unity. Indeed, convocation is very beneficial for us. We must maintain it until the end of time. Whatever happens, convocation will remain forever in our minds and in our hearts for the greater glory of God.
COMMUNITY OUTING BY: SEM.EDISON GARCIA
Our community outing happened after our third unit test which was December 3-4, 2007. The night before the outing the freshmen and sophomores had their social studies class from 8:00 to 9:00 in the evening while the others had their recreation. At about 10:00 p.m. we took our showers and prepared for our departure. At about 12:00 midnight we departed from the seminary. The community boarded 3 buses. Bus 1 composed of Aguians 1, 6, and 9, Bus 2 composed of Aguians 4, 7, 8, and 11 and Bus 3 composed of Aguians 2, 3, 5, and 10. Our first stop was at Siesta. Then we continued our very long trip.
We arrived at the ABS-CBN studio at around 4:30 a.m. and watched Umagang Kay Ganda. The show was FANTASTIC! Especially the part when Sitti and the Las Pinas choir showed their wonderful talent of singing which was very angelic. The seminarians, formators, teachers and personnel of the seminary also enjoyed the locomotion dance led by Ogie Diaz. The show ended at about 8:30 a.m. Then we went to Greenbelt to watch Cinderella. The show was not really for children alone but for adults also. The show was great; the characters gave their best shot to make the show really great. This was followed by our visit to the UST museum. We saw Preserved animal bodies which really amazed us. Those animal bodies were so well preserved that they look real living objects. We also met our former senior brothers who are now studying in UST like bros. Kevin Collado, Jummel Cabrera, Manuel Tamondong and Ezekiel Delos Reyes. After our trip to the museum we went straight to the MALL OF ASIA. At about 3:30 p.m. we watched T-rex at IMAX Theater. We were given 3D glasses by which we experience of the shocking effects at IMAX. We were shocked with the 3D effects at IMAX. By the 3D glasses we were made to feel that were in the movie itself. At the end of the show at 4:30 p.m. we were given an hour to have our dinner and to buy things that we needed. We were also given buddies so that we would not be lost while roaming around. Yet with the curfew given by Fr. Edilberto Calderon still many seminarians spent more than the time allotted to them, so we departed at about 6:30 p.m. In five hours travelling time we were back at in our home sweet home the seminary.
Our outing was so fantastically great that I am looking forward to another outing next school year. I wish next year we could go to other amazing places!
Wenniey Roast by : sem. Marvin Quinto
"hark the heralds,angels sing!..."carolings of here and there.did you smell a roasted bbq?do you remember the 15th night of december?we had our wenniey roast party.wenniey roast party is a tradition here in the seminary.we usually hold this before christmas break to remind us that christmas is fast approaching.
preparation was made for the said occasion.the lights and sounds members brought out the things that would be used for the liveliness of the party while the others brought out the tables and chairs and started roasting the different delicacies for our sumptous supper.at 5:30 pm,others took their showers while the others continued roasting.at about 7:00 pm,we went down wearing our costumes.by the way our costumes were:freshmen were dressed like "nerds";sophomores were dressed like "masculados";juniors were dressed like "punks";seniors were dressed like "70's".as accostumed here in the seminary we start every activity with a prayer.during the wenniey roast,it was father jing nacor who gave the opening prayers.then our much awaited supper began.during the mealsm,we could already hear the quotation,"this food will last until christmas!"after dinner,the muziklaban began,it was started by the "iris" band composed of the sophies.then followed by the "A.E.S" and RJC bands both representing the junior class.and last but not the least,seniors came with their bands clothes line and kill the drama.after the muziklaban the videoke king started. redmond angeles represented the freshmen-A class;alexander lagiwid for the freshmen-B class;roderick fama for the sophomores;julius bagaoaisan for the juniors;job arano for the senior class;rev.fr.jing nacor for the formators;danny generaso for the personnels.to the cut the story short,that night was full of joy and satisfaction but of course we didn't waist the opportunity of hearing the angelic voice of rev.fr.bot calderon,accompanied by sir castelo fama.after that,the awarding ceremonies followed and the winners were:
muziklaban:1st:clothes line 2nd:kill the drama 3rd:Rjc
videoke king:1st:danny generaso 2nd:job arano 3rd:julius bagaoaisan
after that,the classroom decoration awards were given and this were the winners: best belen:sophomores best parol:sophomores best christmas tree:juniors best class room decoration:freshmen-A overall champion:freshmen-A
guess what's the overall prize,a trip to baguio's attractions.well,this was a good night,a night to remember and to be celebrated on the following day!
”Seminary Idol“ By: Sem. Job Eric Arano
And the performer of the night isss… (a moment of silence, all hearts were pounding hard, no mind could ever prophesy the next lines…)
If you were a couch potato you might have been familiar with these lines said in the American Idol… Philippine Idol… and now, here comes the Seminary Idol…After long awaited years, the tradition was born, led by the MHCS Musical Director, Rev. Fr. Jeremias Cera and Rev. Fr. Fernan Estrada with the help of Sem. Jo Alfonso Garcia, the Music Department Head(1st semester S.Y. 2007-2008). Seminary Idol is a replica of the American Idol and Philippine Idol. If you still don’t know, it’s a singing contest wherein judges are asked to make bitter criticisms and ‘okrays’ (which they say is a big help for the performers later on though it almost makes them pee in their pants because of shame…hahaha). After all the over-all performances, 3 performers who got the lowest score will be eliminated until only one will stand tall…the ultimate…the ”Seminary Idol“. Therefore, because the seminarians are talents in the field of music, the seminary formators have thought of cultivating these talents through the Seminary Idol.
So, the first elimination was held in the Kabalens Center in a ”bar atmosphere“. One seminarian was to represent his own Aguian who were all in all 11 seminarians. These idols were the following:
Aguian 1: Sem. Dave Marlowe Duran Aguian 2: Sem. Job eric Arano Aguian 3: Sem. Michael Ian Ebido Aguian 4: Sem. Edward Clyde Jesus delos Reyes Aguian 5: Sem. Ely Reintar, Jr. Aguian 6: Sem. Joseph Pangilinan Aguian 7: Sem. Mars Zacarias Aguian 8: Sem. James Hantsch Aguian 9: Sem. Joval Mari de Vera Aguian 10: Sem. Thomas Lawrence Rulloda Aguian 11: Sem. Michael Dominic Guibani
It was an OPM night accompanied on the keyboards by Fr. Jeremias Cera and Fr. Fernan Estrada, and on the drums by Fr. Ulysses Cacho. On that night, 3 idols were eliminated and Sem. Michael Ian Ebido, the performer of the night (the highest score), was given Php 500.00 (Atchi Dina’s canteen balance) courtesy of the prefect’s fund and a wrist watch by Fr. Mario Morales. The second elimination consisted of 8 idols who sang their own choice of songs and an accompaniment of their choice. Three idols were eliminated again. Sem. Joval Mari’s singing ”Nothing at All“ was chosen to be the performer of the night. He received Php 500.00 and a box of chocolates. Seminarians Joval, Job, Ely, Michael and Michael Ian were left. One time, they visited the Missionaries of Charity to entertain the less unfortunate people as well as serve in the mass as the choir. The third elimination was held in the AVR. It seemed as if they went back to the music of our grandfathers, the ‘80’s ballroom groove. It was a dance night! Adrenaline was on the rush. The Aguian members of the performers were the back-up dancers. Sem. Ely’s ”Dying Inside to Hol You“ made him the performer of the night. Unfortunately, two idols must be eliminated. Thus, Sem Joval and Job were eliminated. Seminarians Michael Ian, Ely and Michael remained. October 21, 2007, the final showdown was held in the gymnasium. There were 5 judgments in order for the judges to determine who really was the one worthy to receive the title, ”Seminary Idol“. They sang the songs they had performed in the previous showdowns. The children of the Missionaries of charity were also invited in tribute of the World Mission Sunday celebrated on the particular day. They also had duet with their relatives. And at last, the songs chosen from famous plays. Sem Ely sang ”The Impossible Dream“. Sem. Michael Ian sang ”Somewhere“. Sem. Michael sang ”You’ll Never Walk Alone“. Who will be the chosen one? The Ultimate Survivor? The ”Seminary Idol?!
We don’t just do the Seminary Idol for fun or an entertainment, but primarily to hone the talents of the seminarians, to build up their self-confidence. Lastly, we all have done for the greater glory of God. (”AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM“)
And the ultimate ”Seminary Idol“ isss… Sem. Ely Reintar, Jr.! (claps, shouts, tears?)
”Professionals Take Part and the Leader Departs“ By: Sem. Anton John Vincent M. Frias
After three years of stressed efforts for physical rehabilitation of the Mary Help of Christians Minor Seminary, why should an idol leave his fans? When everything has taken its nice condition, why should he suddenly disappear in their midst? After his arrival from U.S., Fr. Allan Morris T. Abuan finally decided to continue further his studies leading to a doctorate degree. It was hard for the minor seminarians whom he taught and counseled for three years as the Rector to accept this fact of his departure.
Being the OIC Rector of the seminary, Fr. Jeremias Cera inquired professionals who excel in the fields of certain subjects, namely: History, Latin Grammar, Music and Religion to join the seminary faculty line up of the seminary.
A big man, teacher and servant of God and His people for about 11 years, who dressed unslovenly whenever he came to class, was the first semester Latin Teacher of the Seniors and the Juniors. Rev. Fr. Alvin Gerald Platon originates from the town of where this seminary stands, that is, Binmaley. He finished his Licentiate in Sacred Theology and was ordained priest on May 5, 1997. Now, also, at the age of 37, he is the parish priest of the Holy Cross Parish in Laoac, Pangasinan.
Fr. Gerald had accepted teaching the minor seminarians because he considered it as a great challenge. So, when he had his first classes, his first impression was: ”They are very active in all aspects of the seminary and they are always ‘game’.“ He also gave his distinction between the seminarians now and the ones before. He said, ” Seminarians before were simple…“
Now, do you see a blue-green Toyota car entering the seminary every Monday and Friday afternoon with spic and span polo uniform, the fluent English speaker who gave a conference about the holy rosary in the Marian Vigil held in the MHC College Seminary, and the priest who plays basketball sometimes with his fellow priests in the seminary gym every after his classes with the minor seminarians? If yes, this man who is already twelve months in the priesthood and currently the Spiritual Director of the MHC College seminarians is the new priest professor of the Junior seminarians. He is no other than Rev. Fr. Julius Sagaoinit Cuison. Just like Fr. Alvin Platon, he’s also a Seminary Kabalens. He finished his Licentiate in Sacred Theology in the Immaculate Conception School of Theology in 2006. So, when he had his first classes with the juniors, he said his first impressions on the minor seminarians through the juniors, ”Holy creatures, harmless --they harm but less…“
Want to know the other new teacher professionals of this minor seminary? Read me! Try to go and look for a comfortable and well-ventilated place to sit. And then, sit back and relax while reading!
Have you ever watched the previous basketball games of our varsitarians with the theologians? And have you noticed the chubby and white-complexioned man? If yes, the guy I am referring to was one of the General Excellence Awardees of the seminary and even the Albert Einstein of their batch! He’s no other than the new Latin Professor of the Senior class for the second semester of the school year! He’s no other than Mr. Castelo Angelo T. Fama, who hails from the city of Dagupan. Specifically, he lives at #180 Arellano Bani, Sunrise Subdivision in Dagupan. He finished his high school years at the seminary. He graduated law from the famous University of Santo Tomas. Furthermore, do you want to know when was he born? Well, it was in the month of lovers, minus one to the day of hearts.
Beware or be aware? If you are that observant, watch out for this man as he conquers the world of Latin of the Senior class. And, watch out, as he again joins the theologians of Vigan in playing against the best basketball players of the minor seminary, the MHCS Varstitarians. This is something the seminarians shouldn’t miss!
Impressions? Of this year’s junior seminarians? Read his:
”Seminarians are not that so simple now as those before …but, there is still the most important virtue within their personalities, that is, being model seminarians…“
Kind-looking man. With fair complexion. With an average height of five feet and with a hair which is quite denuded. A teacher who has replaced Fr. Alvin Platon. A priest and a Latin Teacher of the Junior Class composing of thirty-seven seminarians.
Have you already guessed who he is? Well then, Fr. Noel Bulosan is his name!
Moreover, Rev. Fr. Noel is also a Seminary Kabalens. He lives in Binalonan, Pangasinan. Also, he is a parish priest in the Diocese of Urdaneta.
So, for the Zone 6 seminarians don’t ever forget to bless to this said intellectual priest and professor of the seminary, especially you the Junior students he’s handling.
And, here is one of the impressions of a Junior seminarian on Fr. Noel:
”Fr. Noel is fond of seeking the hidden academic abilities of his students... So, watch out!“
Sir Marlowe D. Mamaril temporarily substituted a professional in teaching the Sophomore class in learning new things about History and novel lessons about famous historical events. The professional is no other than Mr. Marvin Serrano Abrio. He lives at #271 Primicias Road, Sagud Bahley, San Fabian. He was born in the month wherein you would find the feast day of the Sophomore’s patron saint, St. Vianney. Moreover, he’s also, just like the other said teachers, a Seminary Kabalens. Currently, he’s a bank employee.
Impressions? Of one of this year’s Sophomores? Read his: ”Vocation…“
Have you noticed the new teacher of the Freshmen class arriving every Saturday afternoon? The man I am referring to is no other than Mr. Christian de Venecia Palma. He originates from the city of Dagupan, at #525 Tapuac District. He was born on August 11, 1976. Moreover, Sir Christian had studied here too and in the MHC College Seminary. He finished A.B. Philosophy. Currently, he is a sales executive of ISUZU Pangasinan.
Impressions? Of his? Read this too:
”Smart and courteous…“
His reasons which have encouraged him to teach in the seminary:
”To help form future priests and to give something back to my Alma Mater.“
Last but not the least, the new priest professor having an average height of about five feet is the teacher who has been teaching the basic musical theories to the Seniors and the Juniors. The sacrificial lamb that greatly excels in the field of Music is no other than Rev. Fr. Fernan Estrada. He hails from the town where the seminary stands, that is, Binmaley. He is assigned in the city of Dagupan as co-workers of the other priests of St. John Cathedral in preaching God’s Word and catechizing all the wonderful things about God, generally, ‘prayer’.
Now, if GMA has its very handsome Richard Gutierez who is a heart-throb and ABS-CBN has its tall hunk Piolo Pascual who is also a heart-throb to every Filipina, do you know that the seminary has his own intriguing figure? He’s no other than the deacon who hails from the city of Dagupan. Introducing the favorite and everybody’s favorite including the angels and saints in heaven is the tall, dark and handsome hunk of the seminary, Rev. Edilberto Arenos Calderon. Reverend ”Bot“ hails from Lasip Chico, Dagupan City. He was born on the 29th of September, 1981.
Twenty-six year old Reverend was contracted by Rev. Fr. Jerry Cera to be the Prefect of Discipline. Out-of-obedience he accepted the request, after his two weeks of deciding.
He is now a deacon so unexpectedly by his relatives because of his very small stature as a youngster and also, because of financial condition. But, God’s will is what he is now and what he is soon to be.
He is currently the Religion professor of the naughty Freshmen.
Soon the great big event in his life, on the 26th of November, he would be ordained priest!!!
We now have the additional set of professionals! So, don’t take your stay here for granted! Just let them shake your everyday stay here by coping with their teachings!!!
Araw ng Wika ‘07 By: Mark John Macalanda
”Wika! Wika!...Wikang Pilipino.“ This was just a regular maxim for that very day. It was the 26th of August, a Sunday, and it was a gloomy afternoon. After sometimes in the Mary Help of Christians Seminary we held the celebration of the Araw ng Wika in our gymnasium. First we had the prayer session hosted by the Zone 6 followed by the investiture of the new pontifical servers of this year. Then after a little lunch, we moved on to the very event.
”Maraming Wika, Matatag na Bansa“ was or theme for this year. This means that we don’t only use tagalog(which is our national language) towards better understanding of the country, but we need all of the languages used by the native Filipino tongue. It propagates our culture and tradition of the old Philippines. It urges us to use our own languages to move on our living. All in all, this program is to signify our tradition, culture, beliefs, and languages to be evoked in our minds.
Now, enough of the chit-chats! We now go to the events that were held during that day. First of all we had the doxology led by the senior class followed by the tableau by some chosen freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. The opening remarks were given by Rev. Fr. Jeremias Cera. Then the knockout contests began. It was the most exciting and thrilling event of that celebration. Some seminarians were excited, some were nervous, some were happy, and some were not doing anything. You really couldn’t tell who’s who under those circumstances.
The contests began with ”Talumpati“ or the oratorical speech; the contestants were good and maybe did not make the audience bored with their talking. Then we had the lively ”Sayawit“, to shake the sleepy asses of those who got tired of listening to the talumpati participants. Followed by the ”Balagtasan“ or the debate, the topic was all about ”What will cultivate the minds of the Filipinos? English or Flipino?“ The seniors won this contest; namely, Job Arano as the ”Lakandiwa“, Christian Saranilla on the side of Filipino, and Mark John Macalanda on the side of English. It was also exciting, but who knows what really cultivates the minds of the Filipinos? It is up to you to decide. Then the ”Sabayang Bigkas“ or the choral recitation, it really took the attention of the audience. It was earsplitting, very piercing indeed. The voices of the contestants were like thunder that vibrated in the hall. It was an amusing event- shouts here and there, laughs, dance and song.
After the contests, the winners were announced. Yes, all were happy especially the parents, who were very proud of their sons whether they won or not. Then a around of applause for everybody; winners, losers, contestants, judges, teachers, and visitors. Shouts and claps for all. Most of all the formators were amazed of the performances. It ended with gratitude from the formators and Ma’am Mirle Cruz, the teacher adviser of the program. Then the final remarks and final blessing of Rev. Edilberto Calderon formally ended the celebration.
”English Campaign: Vibrant Tradition in the MHC Seminary Foundation“ September 22, 2007
Not an ordinary Saturday if you’d ask me. No classes. Know why? It is because we celebrated the annual English Festival this day! And our theme: ”English Campaign: Vibrant Tradition in the MHC Seminary Foundation.“ After breakfast, we had some special work, light work and all kinds of work. Then we had preparations and put on our black-and-blue uniform. And oh, did I ever mention that we started awfully late? Anyway, the resulting program made up for the late begin. The first bout: Aguian Quiz Bee! There were 5 categories namely: Spelling, Literature, Grammar, Math, and Science. Aguian 2 bested all other Aguians having scored 32 points, while the Aguian 6 was only second placer, scoring a close 30 points. Next in line was the Quiz Bee by class. Each class had 10 competitors. The rule was simple: answer each question thrown to you correctly and you survive, if you don’t say goodbye. The last man standing was the winner. Each competitor gave his very best, but every contest needs only one sole winner and here are the names of the five champions of each class: Emmanuel de Luna was the last survivor of the 1-A class; Rome Reyes was bested the rest of the 1-B participants; Edison Garcia was born to be the winner of the 2nd year class; Clyde Delos Reyes defeated the other 9 in the 3rd year class; and of course, the crowd favorite, Hersheys Bravo crushed what went his way in the Senior class. Way to go guys! Congratulations! After the Bees, the gym was infested by ants so we had to clean it for a while. Lunch came and passed. We had a short siesta then back to action at once. After the power nap, we held the story-telling contest. All the story-tellers were superb ones, exclusively found in the seminary. Job Araño only had the guts to tell the wonderful story called ”The Stone Soup.“ The juniors’ hero was Rogel Manangan, who told the story of ‘Whose home?“. The sophies’ pride was Anthony Untalan, magically telling the story of ”Ironman.“ 1-A’s narrator was Redmond Angeles who told the story of ”St. Elizabeth of Hungary and the Roses.“ The 1-B’s best bet was Aristotle Vinluan who narrated us the story of ”The Persian and his three sons.“
Next, our little bunch of actors dominated the front stage. The 1st year-lings presented a choral recitation entitled ”The Cry of Balintawak.“ The sophies showcased their gift of the pantomime from an excerpt of ”Rip Van Winkle.“ The juniors displayed their talents in acting by presenting a play, ”Sohrab and Rustom.“ The seniors didn’t hold back with their ”Ransom of the Red Chief“ (a bit on the spot I should say, but it turned out good). So far, so good.
September 23, 2007
Prayer Session c/o Zone 5… After the High Mass, we had some time with our parents and… English Festival Part 2 began! As the whole event was so long and indescribable with words alone, I’d only mention the participants of each class and the winners of each competition. First, after singing the English version of our national anthem, came the contest for the oration. The participants were as follows: 1-A’s pet was John Robert Echavaria; 1-B had Alexander Lagiwid; the sophomores’ orator was Mars Zacarias; our junior brothers chose Miguel de Vera to deliver; while the seniors’ best was Ely Reintar Jr. As expected, the senior bet snatched the gold, while the sophomores and 1-B bagged the silver and bronze medals respectively. This was followed by the competition for declamation. 1-A’s representative was Harvey de Nieva; 1-B’s man was Eart Tagum; the sophomores chose the Franklin Fernandez to represent their class; juniors’ talent was Jezer de Vera; and seniors’ upbeat contestant was Michael de Guzman. Seniors won their gold… again. Juniors won their silver and the sophomores, their bronze. After the main contests, there was a replay of the class presentations. Then came the story-telling replay by the champion Job Araño (well not YET a champion, actually, but soon to be). The awarding came next. Well, you know now who won so I think my job’s finished here. See ya! I wish it was that easy to finish my job… Anyway, this annual English Fest was and is being held every year to commemorate English as the universal and global tool of learning and understanding in a very easy way. ‘Learn how to speak in English effectively and be understood by the world’ is the propagating message that we seminarians are aware of. And we live everyday by that message by means of the very effective English Campaign. No wonder our parents were shocked at how fluent and good we were at speaking English.
Prayer Session and World Mission Sunday By: Sem. Thomas Laurenz B. Rulloda
Last October 21, 2007 the seminary held its fourth prayer session headed by the Zone 4 parents and seminarians. The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr. Reynaldo Romero, former Rector of the Minor Seminary. His homily, which was listened attentively by the seminarians, parents and guests, was about our mission as a Christian.
That day was also the celebration of the World Mission Sunday wherein we, Christians, share what we have and what we can. In preparation to this, seminarians had an IGP or a work to earn money to be given to the charity as help. This work resulted to a competition as to who of the classes would earn the most amount of money. It turned out good because much money was collected and went as a big help to the foundations, which are needy.
Before the celebration of the mass ended, the induction of the new seminary officers was done. The officers took their oath promising that they would do their duties and responsibilities properly. The seminarians who were inducted felt happy for they could have the opportunity to lead the seminary community for the next semester.
In the afternoon, at about 1:30, there was a program held at the seminary gymnasium namely: the Final Showdown of the Seminary Idols, Music Festival and Social Studies Festival. The children from the missionaries of charity were invited to attend the program as special guests.
In the seminary idol, seminarians showed off their talents in singing to entertain the guests, to win the competition and to be addressed as the first seminary idol. They also sang songs as tribute to the children of the missionaries of charity. When the tribute song was sung we saw how generous the seminary community was for they gave what they could because they pitied the children and were touched by the children.
In the Music Festival, each of the classes prepared their own production numbers to win the cash prize of two thousand pesos. Their performances were great and entertaining because of their desire to win and to show that they had the talent. In that competition, the seniors were able to win the first place followed by the juniors and the sophomores got the third place, while the freshmen, having not enough experience, ranked the fourth place.
What’s with September 8? By: Sem. Michael De Guzman
To commemorate the birth of our Mother Mary, we seminarians of MHCS joined the Marian Vigil, a yearly prestigious event which is participated in by the youth ministries of every parish in the archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan and by students of some catholic schools. This youth gathering was held on September 7, 2007 at the Mary Help of Christians Major Seminary in Bonuan Gueset, Dagupan City.
As we entered the vicinity of the seminary we were warmly welcomed with big smiles of the energetic youth leaders. The seminary quadrangle, where the event was held, was spectacular. It was fully decorated, lights hung everywhere and the stage was greatly designed with the image of our Mother, Mary. The program officially started with the talk of the archdiocese’s Vicar General, Msgr. Manuel Bravo, about Mary, our mediator, help, guide, and most specially our Mother. The next activity was a follow up of Fr. Bravo’s explanation of the various titles of Mary. Every catholic knows the titles of Mary, no other than the litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary that we recite. This activity was done by every youth ministry and school including the seminary. The titles of Mary were explained through dances, songs, skits, dialogue and variety shows. This activity showcased the talents of the youth ministries which gave entertainment to everyone. It also gave knowledge about Mary whom we honor with all her titles as she intercedes for us.
While we were waiting for the strike of twelve midnight we had another jubilant activity called the Youth Jam. This Youth Jam was the activity wherein everyone was invited to dance those lively animations like ”Celebrate“, ”One“, ”We Wish to See Jesus,“ the unforgettable ”YMCA“ led by the Senior class and a lot more. Wow! In spite of this strenuous activity and sleepy body everyone stood up, sung the songs and followed those dynamic moves which awaken and gave the youth their high energy. We did this until the countdown to twelve midnight. ”Ten, nine, eight….. Three, two, one... September 8! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MAMA MARY!!!“ Everybody screamed and rendered Mary a birthday song with big smiles on everyone’s face and heart.
Rev. Fr. Julius Cuison jubilantly gave another talk about the history of the Rosary. The sacramental which was offered to Mary was actually a series of psalms and was changed to Hail Mary and Holy Mary. The Rosary is our weapon and protection against temptation. Then we prayed the mysteries of the Holy Rosary in clusters in different parts of the seminary and parish followed by meditations. At dawn we had the procession of the statue of Mary around Bonuan, Gueset. When we went back to the seminary we immediately gathered around the stage and celebrated the Most Holy Eucharist presided over by Rev. Fr. Manuel Bravo with, Msgr. Mario Morales, Rev. Fr. Jim Cerezo, Rev. Fr. Julius Cuison, and Rev. Edilberto Calderon. Awards were given to those persons who worked hard for the success of the vigil and also for those who had the best interpretation of the title of Mary. The most thrilling part was the announcement of the next parish to host the Marian Vigil ’08. Unexpectedly Msgr. Bravo announced that the next stop is in Binmaley, Mary Help of Christians Minor Seminary will host the next Marian Vigil. We were so glad to accept the announcement in being the next host of this prestigious. Yahoo!
Marian Vigil a great gift that we give to Mary on her birthday where every people in the diocese is invited and grouped together as one big happy family. We forgo our leisure of sleeping and pleasures in life in order to give thanks and honor to our most and ever loving Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary our Mediator, our Help, our Guide, Our MOTHER.
”BATANG RIZAL“ By: Justin Espino
Consumatum est!!!!!!
Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado Alonso y Realonda. Our National Hero, the 7th son of Mr. Fransico Mercado Rizal and Mrs. Teodora Alonso was born in Calamba, Laguna born on June 9, 1861 and died on December 30, 1896 at Bagumbayan. Last October 6, 2007 the whole seminary community went to Manaoag to watch a stage play about our National Hero. As usual we, the seniors are again leading the community to the Gym where the stage play will be held. We were all shocked!! Could you read it right? Upon entering the gymnasium a lot of girls approached us. We thought that they were to acquaint with us but we were wrong! They were rather so nice to show us the way.
As usual, we all stood for the doxology before the stage play started. The play portrays the life of Rizal. In the play, we have learned that Rizal was just like the other kids during his time except when it comes to studies. Rizal knew how to fight. There was a scene when Rizal fought with his classmate not because he was a bad boy. The stage play was a combination of comedy, drama, love story, and Fantasy. (its magic!!!)
The story line started with Pepito, a student of Rizal Elementary School, who was known to have destroyed the statue of Rizal, that was given by Mayor Rapku to their school. When the principal of the school was about to be shown to the students, this is the time of the truth, when the principal removed the black clothe which is covering the the statue, they sow Pepito instead of the statue of Rizal that Mayor Rapku donated. They Questioned Pepito for the lost of the statue(Pepito had destroyed the Statue because of own naughtiness) . He was told by the principal to fix it before its actual revelation to the public then if he fails to comply with what the principal told him all of his siblings will be kicked out from the school and his dad will loose his job(how sad naman for Pepito) When he was wondering in the storage room he found an old book. When he opened it, bright lights came out then he vanished just before the twinkling of your eye(all I can say is ”its magic!!!“)Pepito is now in the time of Rizal. Yeh he is in the past. There he met Rizal and had known a lot of things about Rizal’s life. Pepito had discovered that Rizal could make sculptures. He then had a plan. He ask Rizal if he could help him with his problem(with the destroyed sculpture). Of course Rizal did not fail him. Hehehe that’s what friends are for…as most of us say to our best champ…Pepito brought Rizal to the present and had discovered how he was given importance by importance by us and all his works. Instead of making another sculpture Rizal suggested to Pepito that it is better that he would just admit everthing to Mayor Rapku. As in everything… Mayor Rapku was impressed with their honesty of admitting their own fault which turned out to the mayors new project, Mayor Rapku would be donating a new set ofn uniforms for the students and additional classrooms as the request of the principal of the school. After all of these Rizal returned to his time and everything in the Rizal’s Elementary school is normal.
After the show. We the Seniors tried to make picture picture with the cast…heheheh for our souvenir. But unfortunately we were not able to.We took our dinner in the parking lot of the Manaoag Parish. Then after the dinner we went back to the seminary. Everybody was so exhausted that we went straight to bed(I even forgot to brush my teeth that time). Then I have realized that the day had already ended but, the virtues that I have learned from Rizal will always live forever especially in the very hearts of each Filipino who is proud of his own country.
St. John Mary Vianney By: Seminarian Mars Samuel S. Zacarias
Who is St. John Mary Vianney? John Mary Vianney, the Cure of Ars, was born in 1786 at Lloyns, France. In his youth, John tended his father’s sheep while teaching children Catechism. At 18, he told his father his desire to enter the priesthood. His father worried so much since the young man had been a great help; thus, it was only 2 years later when he was finally given permission.
John learned about his religion from Father Balley. The priest was patient in teaching him but still, John had problems in learning Latin. At first, he was discouraged. So as a form of sacrifice, he walked 60 miles to the shrine of St. John Francis Regis while praying for help. After the pilgrimage, the Saint had more troubles with his studies. Still this time, he was not discouraged.
John was finally able to enter the seminary. His studies grew more and more difficult. And no matter how much effort he exerted, John still experienced some difficulties. John had his final exams as an oral exam. John was so nervous that he broke down in the middle of the exam. John was such a holy man and full of common sense. John Vianney was ordained priest anyway.
He was sent to the parish of Ars. Fr. Vianney prayed much for his people. He stopped them from drinking too much, saying foul words, working all day Sunday and from not attending Mass. Business slowed down. As a result, people started attending Masses on Sundays.
God gave John the power to read minds and know the future. He converted sinners and aided people in making the right decisions. He devoted 12 to 16 hours daily for confessions.
Despite of his desire to stay in the monastery, John served Ars for the rest of his remaining 42 years. He died at the age of 73 in 1859. He was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925.
How did we plan for the celebration of our Feast Day?
Before that very day, the Sophomore Class, together with Fr. Jerry Cera, planned everything for the feast day celebration. This includes: the venue of the outing, the activites to do during the celebration of the feast day, our Vianney Mass, etc. The Sophomore Class Outing:
The sophomore class decided to have the class outing on August 2, 2007. They also decided to have it in Leisure Coast Resort, Dagupan City. In the morning of Aug. 2, 2007, we prepared the things we needed for our outing. At 8:30am, we left the premises of the seminary with our Prefect, Rev. Edilberto Calderon, and went first to the gates of MHCCS. We had our tour around the college seminary with the help of some of our college seminarian brothers. We all had fun during our tour around the seminary. We also relished many nice things in the college seminary. At about 10:30am, we left the college seminary and proceeded to Leisure Coast Resort. You could see in the face of these 2nd Year seminarians, the joy and happiness of celebrating the feast of their beloved Saint John Mary Vianney. They all played, swam, shared stories, and had lots of fun. It’s just too bad because most of us got sunburn, and got tanned while having fun under the sun. At around 3:00pm, we left the resort and went to CSI, the City Mall at 3:45pm. We were there for just an hour, but at least, most of us have spent our money wisely, even if some just had 50 pesos in their pockets. At 4:45pm, we left the mall and went back to the seminary. Upon our arrival, we took our showers and had VCD viewing. After that, we got back to the same seminary schedule.
The Vianney Mass and the Class Sharing of the sophomores:
The Vianney Mass was held at the grotto of MHCSeminary, at 6:10am on Aug. 4, 2007. The mass was presided by Msgr. Orlando Sabangan. All 2nd year seminarians were very attentive during the mass. At night of that same day we had our class sharing instead of the SILENCIUM MAGNUM in the oratory room beside the chapel. All of us shared what we felt for each other, what we thought for one another, and how we enjoyed the comfort of being with one another. This sharing strengthened the unity and cooperation of the sophomore class. This sharing bonded us like a chain without its weakest link. All of us were very happy to know how one feels about the other.
Indeed the sophomore seminarians celebrated and enjoyed the Feast of their Patron Saint, John Mary Vianney. All of the works they’ve done, all the fun they’ve enjoyed, all of these are dedicated to St. Vianney, all the Saints, to Mary, and to Jesus and His Father...
Our Saint, Mother Therese of the Child Jesus By: Sem. Eart Tagum
St. Therese, Patroness of missions, was born at Alencon, France in 1873. Her vocation was revealed on Christmas Eve of 1886, when she had a mystic vision of the child Jesus. At the young age of 15, with a papal dispensation, she entered the Carmelite monastery of Lisieux. She took for her motto these words: Love is repaid by love alone. Inside the monastery she did not perform extraordinary things, but fulfilled her daily duties in extraordinary ways. She accepted with faith the trials of life, finding great consolation in reading the Holy Bible. Appointed novice mistress of the community, she taught humility and simplicity to the new candidates by words and example. In her spiritual biography, the history of a soul, she wrote: I am very little soul, who can only offer very little things to the Lord.
Feeling a strong attraction for martyrdom, she offered her life for the salvation of souls and the growth of the church. She said: I wish at all cost to win the palm of St. Agnes. If I cannot be by blood it must be by love. She died in 1897, at the young age of 24. In 1927, she was declared the Patron Saint of foreign missions together with St. Francis Xavier, to signify in the evangelization prayer and actions are complementary. As she said: I knew that the church had a body composed of various members, and a heart inflamed with love. I knew that love drove the members of the church to action, that if this love had been extinguished, the apostles would have proclaimed the Gospel no longer, the martyrs would have shed their blood no more. O Jesus, at last I have found my place in the church: my call is love. We celebrate the feast days of St. Therese of the Child Jesus on October 1
On the feast days of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, we went to the Missionary sisters of Charity. We went there for 2 reasons: the first reason was, to know more about our selves, and the second reason, was to express our love to them and to give importance in this world. We were very sad because we saw the kids that are suffering in sickness. But even they are suffering, they are very happy especially when they saw us, We entered their room; we played with them we feed them, we danced, with them and many more. They were all happy, and we were very happy too because we made them happy. Even our time was short we made them feel our love for them and we have given them importance. As we were leaving, the children sang us a song, all of us left with joy in our hearts.
”MHCS Varsity Try-out“ By: Sem. Roven Ancheta
On July 6, 2007 it was formally announced that the seminary would be opening a try-out for the basketball varsity for the school year 2007-2008. Upon hearing the announcement, a lot of seminarians got eager and excited to join the try-out.
The first try-out was started on the bright hot day of July 8, 2007. Many were hoping that they would be chosen. Unfortunately, some were removed but some were able to survive.
July 15, 2007 was the second time for testing the guts of each seminarian if they could withstand the heavy drills that the coach would command them to do. Fortunately, there were 19 seminarians who were able to surpass and would have a chance to carry on trying their luck to be part of the varsity team.
Finally, July 19, 2007 was the judgment day for the 19 seminarians to show that they were worthy to be part of the team. Everyone showed off his talents and did his best to get one of the 15 slots of the varsity team. Unluckily four seminarians were turned down. Their best was not good enough for them to be one of the varsitarians.
The tough 15 seminarians namely:
Captain Ball: Michael Guibani – Point guard V-Captain ball: Ely Reintar – Power forward Members: Roven Ancheta – Guard/Point guard Hersheys Bravo – Center Michael De Guzman – Forward Mark John Macalanda – Center Marc Ceasar Navarro – Forward
Michael Quinto – Power forward/Center Thomas Rulloda – Shooting guard Benedict Ocampo – Point guard Joshua Soliven – Forward Kevin Tesoro – Small forward Coaches: Mr. Raul Bautista Rev. Fr. Edilberto Calderon
”Intramurals ‘07-‘08“ By: Sem. Michael Dominic Guibani
”Hardwork and teamwork will always work“
This is the them of our Intramurals ‘o7-’08. It means that there must be no ”LACOSTE“ in the team or in the dialect ”BUHAYA. Also, all must work in the team, not only one, but all must cooperate to carry the team. For ”no man is an island…“
July 22, 2007 was a hot Sunday, not only because of the heat of the sun, but also because of the beautiful muses. After the seminarians had had their visiting hours with their parents and friends, they were asked to change to their team jerseys and, then they assembled by teams at the seminary front. The parade commenced from the seminary front to the seminary gymnasium. As the four teams namely; Prophets, Sages, Saints and Seers were entering the seminary campus, they were introduced by our seminary emcees. After all had settled down, the intramurals ‘o7-’08 was officially opened by no other than our priest soon to be Rev. Edilberto ”Bot“ Calderon. This was followed by a varsity a varsity exhibition game with our big brothers, the college seminarians, and not our housemates, our fellow seminarians. At the end of the game, our very own varsity turned to be the victor with the help of the reserved energy of Rev. Bot.
The TEAMS and their respective Captain and Vice-Captain Balls:
PROPHETS: Captain Ball: Sem .Ely Reintar, Jr. Vice-Captain Ball: Sem. Michael Gavin Quinto
SAGES: Captain Ball: Sem. Michael de Guzman Vice-Captain Ball: Sem. Sem. Justin Espino
SEERS: Captain Ball: Sem. Michael Guibani Vice-Captain Ball: Sem. Marc Navarro
SAINTS: Captain Ball: Sem. Hersheys Bravo Vice-Captain Ball: Sem. Roven Ancheta
During the succeeding days, all seminarians were having fun. You could see that all seminarians cooperated. They composed their own cheering song for their own team. Even if they were already having hoarse voices, still they were cheering at the top of their voices. Our intramurals ended with a very nice result.
For your information, these were the winners of our intramurals last July:
OUTDOOR GAMES:
(BASKETBALL)
Senior Division: Champion: Saints 1st Runner-up: Sages 2nd Runner-up: Seers
Junior Division: Champion: Saints 1st Runner-up: Sages 2nd Runner-up: Seers
Midgets Division: Champion: Seers 1st Runner-up: Saints 2nd Runner-up: Sages
National Division: Champion: Saints 1st Runner-up: Sages 2nd Runner-up: Seers
(VOLLEYBALL) Champion: Prophets 1st Runner-up: Saints 2nd Runner-up: Sages
INDOOR GAMES:
TABLE TENNIS: Champion: Don Victor Chiong 1st Runner-up: Romel Ancheta 2nd Runner-up: Roven Ancheta
CHESS: Champion: Patrick Bulatao 1st Runner-up: Froi Perez 2nd Runner-up: Paulo Atal
DAMA: Champion: Joseph Pangilinan 1st Runner-up: Jezer de Vera 2nd Runner-up: Nicasio Villanueva
SCRABBLE: Champion: Maury Ordanza 1st Runner-up: Dominic dela Cruz 2nd Runner-up: Edward delos Reyes
POOL: Champion: Hersheys Bravo 1st Runner-up: Don Victor Chiong 2nd Runner-up: Justin Espino
GAMES OF THE GENERALS: Champion: Joval de Vera 1st Runner-up: Justin Espino 2nd Runner-up: Thomas Rulloda
DARTS: Champion: Roven Ancheta 1st Runner-up: Hersheys Bravo 2nd Runner-up: Don Victor Chiong
SPECIAL AWARDS:
MYTHICAL FIVE: (Basketball) -Michael Guibani -Ely Reintar -Hersheys Bravo -Roven Ancheta -Benedict Ocampo MYTHICAL SIX (Volleyball): -Jo Garcia -Michael Quinto -Hersheys Bravo -Jesse Rosal -Michael de Guzman -Mark John Macalanda
M.V.P.(Volleyball) – Jo Alfonso Garcia M.V.P. (Basketball) – Roven Ancheta M.I.P. – Lawrence Magno M.D.P. – Joshua Soliven Rookie M.D.P. – Eart Tagum Rookie – Rodnel Ancheta Sportsmanship Award –Thomas Rulloda Most Steals – Marc Navarro
SIDE EVENTS: 3-point Shoot-out – John Paul Mamaril 2-balls – Marc Navarro & Kristian del Fierro Buzzer Beater – Michael Ebido
Sangkan 4 in Sariaya By: Michael Gavin Quinto
SPARTANS!!! No retreat! No surrender!…
A week before our last and most awaited Sangkan, an epidemic of ”Sore Eyes“ devastated our whole class!!! Yeah, you read it right, it’s sore eyes. And in fact I was the first one infected. I went home at once so as not to contaminate my classmates, but just the same, half of our class had their ”beautiful red eyes“ after a couple of days. ”Red-eyed“ seniors were asked to go home for some rest and for some medications. We thought we couldn’t make it to our Sangkan because most of us were still sick. Nevertheless, we were so determined that despite our ”red eyes“ we pushed through going to our Sangkan wearing colored eyeglasses even at night… hehehe…
It was early dawn of September 26 when we set off for our Sangkan in Quezon Province. We traveled for about 6 to 7 hours before we reached our first destination, the Hacienda Escudero (I don’t know if the owner is related to Senator Chiz ”Bamboo look-alike“ Escudero). We arrived at around 6:30 in the morning in the place to be. Breakfast took place after some picture taking. After filling our tummies, we commenced our tour in the hacienda. First destination was the church museum. It contains various religious artifacts and facilities like the altar, the retablo from Agno, Pangasinan, the picture of Jesus which looks like an ordinary black and white picture of Jesus, but looked at it with magnifying glass, you’ll see the entire old testament written and many more. No cameras were allowed inside but there were still hidden cameras… hehehe… On going to our next destination we rode on carabaos. Yeah it’s full of fun riding on a carabao. Next stop was the pool and the riverbank. Yeah taking a bath is good for people with sore eyes. With just a blink of an eye, people were diving here and there while some were rowing bamboo rafts on the river. I chose not to swim at once but to have a little sightseeing instead. Many hours of swimming had passed and we felt hungry. Time for lunch! At first I thought we would eat at the little restaurant-like cottage there but I was wrong. I was rather surprised when I saw our eating-place, besides the waterfalls (but of course it’s only man-made… hehehe) connected to a river. The tables were placed on the water and people would be eating with their feet dipped in water (the water is only until the ankle). It’s an eat-all-you-can meal. Of course this is always the favorite of seminarians and according to Fr. Jerry it’s a sign of good vocation. We made sure that our tummies would really be satisfied. Some took a bath at the falls while taking pictures. After lunchtime, some went back to the pool; others rented bikes and explored the wonders of Hacienda Escudero while Fr. Jerry and Rev. Bot were at a videoke.
At around 2 o’clock in the afternoon we proceeded on our trip to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary (OLMCS) in Sariaya, and arrived at the seminary at 3 p.m. That was rather too early. The OLMCS seminarians were still cleaning the seminary so they told us to go for a while to Kamay ni Kristo in Lucban. We were accompanied by a parent from the OLMCS. There at Kamay ni Kristo, we went directly to the chapel and prayed, made the stations of the cross behind the chapel. We had our dinner and spent overnight at the seminary. The following day we rose at about 7a’m’ and had breakfast… We needed much energy for the opening day of the Sangkan. Different seminaries began arriving. They all looked like ready for the affair. We got a little nervous but of course we did not allow our feelings to overcome us. After breakfast we prepared for the opening mass at Sariraya Church adjacent to the seminary. The mass was presided over by the Vicar General of Quezon, Msgr. Leandro Castro, concelebrate by the Rectors and Prefects of all seminaries. In his homily he said ”There is no problem here, only opportunity. In the seminary there are no problems but opportunities to improve ourselves and opportunities to become a priest.“ Parade followed after the mass.
Upon arriving at the seminary we changed our clothes to our sports attired. Some talks by the Rector of the seminary were followed by the lighting of torch. After a little program came the most awaited event, the drawing of lots for the different indoor and outdoor games. We started the game nervously. But the game favored us because of all those spikes by Michael Guibani and the sets of Thomas Rulloda that led us to the championships. We thought were only good for warming up other seminaries for their next game but it turned out that they were the ones good for warming up. Our next game was held the following day, the championship game with the Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary, Batangas. Meanwhile, let’s go to the results of the indoor games. After the eye-twirling game Don Victor Chiong won his first game in table tennis by lab set. Yeah he finished it at once and the game did not last for 5 minutes (I think the time spent for warming up was longer than the game. Marc Navarro, Joseph Pangilinan and Roven Ancheta turned out to be the victors in chess, dama and darts. Justin, Joval and Dominic seemed to lack praying. They were unfortunately eliminated by their opponents. But of course we were okay since we all wanted to enjoy our Sangkan. After all those tiring games it was time for rest. It was the turn of our formators play basketball. Eastern seminary formators versus Western seminary formators. Rev. Bot Calderon was of course leading the game. The eastern seminary formators won by some points. But the rest of us enjoyed ourselves eating specially lansones and rambutan offered to us.
The following day we had our mass at the seminary chapel followed by breakfast. Then championship games! It was time for showing off what we’ve got. Don Victor Chiong finished his two consecutive games in about ten minutes for him to be the Grand Slam Champion in table tennis (he has been the champion in table tennis since his first year. Marc Navarro won 2nd runner up in chess. In the volleyball championship game, we lost in the first set against the OSJ but the following 3 sets were really for us. We won the championship game with a score of 3-1 in our favor. Yeah we were really the first batch in the seminary to gain the championship award in volleyball. At the awarding ceremonies, the Our lady of Guadalupe Seminary, Makati, won the overall champion (they must be thankful that they’re not in our bracket) followed by the Immaculate Conception Seminary of Bulacan and the third, the Mary Help of Christians Seminary. In the total score of the seminaries the champion led only 4 points from us. That was satisfactory enough as long as we enjoyed our Sangkan.
SANGKAN 3 On November 22, 2007, the third year seminarians of the different seminaries of the Luzon went to Bulucan. What happened there? Was there a revolution that happened again in Bulacan on that date? Did they buy firecrackers there for New Year’s Day? Well, they did not attend any revolution nor buy any firecrackers but participated in a sports fest that would unite them through prayer and playing, an occasion that would bring out their best in the field of sports. That was an event called Sangkan. And because third year seminarians were the participants, this two-day event was called Sangkan 3. The theme of this Sangkan was ”Pray! Play! Unite!“.
The Eucharistic Celebration was celebrated in historical Barasoain Church wherein the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Malolos, Most Rev. Cirilo Almario, was the main presider and the priest Formators of the participating seminaries were the concelebrators. The participating minor seminaries were: Maria Assumpta Seminary, Mother of Good Counsel Seminary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary, Immaculate Conception Seminary (Vigan), St. Mary Seminary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary, Diocesan of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. francis de Sales Seminary, Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary, San Jacinto Seminary, Our Lady of Penafrancia Seminary, Immaculate Conception Seminary (Bulacan), amd our very own Mary Help of Christian Seminary. The seminarians of these seminaries participated actively not just during in the Mass but also in different activities provided by the host seminary. The next activities were photo session and motorcade to the host seminary. The opening ceremonies were held in the seminary gymnasium where the seminarians of the host seminary showcased their talents through their presentations. The indoor games were held in the morning and the outdoor games in the afternoon due to rainy weather. By the way, our indoor players were the following:
Neil Obaña(Chess) Jezer de Vera(Dama) Julius Bagaoisan(Darts) Jesse Rosal(Games of the General) John Paul Mamaril(Pool) Clyde Delos Reyes(Scrabble) Bert Rosario( Table Tennis)
Our basketball players did not make it but that loss did not discourage them. They had given their best in that game and had proven that a seminarian of MHCS never gives up. At the end of the game, the seminarians showed the spirit of Sangkan and the identity of a certified seminarian. Showers followed and at 6:00pm, the community recited the Angelus.They had Lucenarium with Vespers at a place which they called ”Oval“. Dinner followed and their was a big night in the seminary gymnasium. The famous Levites Priest Band performed a performance which entertained everybody inside the place. As we know, Bulacan is a province producing firecrackers. And so there was a spectacular fireworks display which lasted for a long time. This display amazes its audience with its colorful presentation. But there was an effect so called smoke effect that produced coughing people. At about 10:00 pm, the time of revelry of some seminarians came, lights off.
The sun shone brightly giving the seminarians a wonderful day. 5:30 am was the rising time. They prepared themselves for the Mass. The Eucharistic Celebration was celebrated on the seminary chapel where a priest alumnus of the ICS(Bulacan) was the main presider and priest formators con-celebrated. They had breakfast and prepared themselves for ”8 Waves“, a luxurious resortr in Bulacan. The final indoor games were played in that resort. The seminarians had much fun swimming. They ate their lunch and after a short break, awarding ceremonies came. Our seminary got the 1st place in ”Dama“, 2nd place in Table Tennis, 3rd Place in Scrabble, 4th place in the Games of the General. Immaculate Conception Seminary of Bulacan thanked the delegates and as a sign of appreciation, they gave each seminary a basketful of the products of Bulacan, not firecrackers. Each seminary returned to their seminaries that was not the end of the Sangkan. The next Sangkan 3 will be hosted by the Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Sorsogon, Sorsogon. The next Sangkan 4 will be at the Immaculate Conception in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Surely, the seminarians will be preparing for this sports fest.
|
||||||||
 |
||||||||
 |
 |
