Reparational Prayer Request for Gay Pride Month

The month of June is celebrated worldwide as gay pride month. Our friend from Toronto, Canada is asking everyone to sign up for an hour of prayer in the Blessed Sacrament to pray for these intentions. Please visit the weblinks below for more information. Thank you.

Dear Courage Manila,

Greetings again in the Lord!

I'm writing to ask for your support for our campaign of reparational prayer during Toronto's Pride Week, now underway. Our city is in great spiritual need, and this year's festival is the dress rehearsal before it hosts World Pride 2014.

In this our second annual campaign, Charity, Clarity, Chastity invites people to sign up for an hour of prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, to pray for those three intentions.

Would you please be so kind as to share this link on your blog.
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090C4DA8AA28A57-charity

Participation from the Philippines would be most helpful in covering some of the slots in the schedule that are harder for Canadians to fill because for us they are in the middle of the night. And regrettably, much debauchery overnight can be expected this weekend. So too can much desolation be expected.

I have posted some further thoughts on our blog here.
http://thesheepfold.typepad.com/the_sheepcat/2013/06/charity-clarity-chastity-prayer-pride-toronto.html

Of course we would be glad to reciprocate in prayer for you, as for example we did in connection with your country's "reproductive health" bill.

Thanks and God bless,

Alan

Sa Panahon ng Paghilom: Healing From Hurtful Relationships

Living Waters Philippines is inviting everyone to attend a full-day healing conference on August 24, 2013, Saturday.  This will be a great gathering of all Christian believers under the one cross of Christ who is our Divine Healer.  Main speaker will be Andrew Comiskey, founder of the healing ministry Living Waters and a recent convert to Catholicism. He will be coming all the way from Canada to conduct this conference.

"Sa Panahon ng Paghilom" is a full-day healing conference.  The conference will address the effects of our hurtful experiences and broken relationships in the way we look at ourselves and relate with others. It will show people how to access the hope and healing found in the love of God.

This gathering will also provide attendees with practical tools on how to effectively reach out and minister healing to their hurting loved ones.

Date:  24 August 2013, Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Venue:  Meralco Multi-Purpose Hall, Meralco Compound (Gate 2), Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Cost:  P500 (Metro Manila), P300 (Provincial)

Registration:  (02) 910-0777; 09272845037; 09162112864 (Look for Juliet or Vicky)

Website:  www.livingwatersphilippines.org

Keynote Speaker:  Andrew Comiskey

A sought-after speaker and prolific author, Andy Comiskey is the Founder of Living Waters Ministry and current Director of Desert Streams Ministries. Witnessing first-hand the healing power of Jesus in his sexual struggles and broken relationships, Andy points people to the healing found in the Cross of Jesus and equips others to do the same. His new book Naked Surrender: Coming Home To Our True Sexuality is soon to be released in the Philippines. Andy and his wife Annette live in Kansas City, Missouri.
                         

A Complaint Against GMA-7's My Husband's Lover

Bro. Rollie, our group leader in Courage Philippines, just recently filed a letter of complaint addressed to the MTRCB against the airing of GMA-7's latest 'telenovela' My Husband's Lover because of its strong pro-gay message. He has also been fighting it out on MHL FB page with Suzette Doctolero herself, but sadly he was being severely criticized in that FB group discussion because of his dissenting comments against the airing of MHL and for promoting the truth about same-sex attraction.

I've read that this 'bekiserye' is popular not only among the gay crowd but even with the non-gay crowd, which is quite an interesting phenomenon. There are so many things going for MHL. It is the first of its kind to be shown on Philippine TV which undoubtedly contributes much to its popularity. You've got top-rate actors and actresses portraying their respective roles excellently. Not to mention all the hype and publicity that the media has created for its leading characters Tom Rodriguez (Vincent) and Dennis Trillo (Eric), tagging them with the monicker TomDen, one of the country's "hottest loveteam" at the moment. And of course, Kuh's rendition of its theme song 'One More Try' really adds to all that drama as well.  That's showbusiness what do you expect?

On the flip side, there is really nothing much to expect from MHL. The story of a married man who falls in love with another man has been tackled over and over again in most gay indie films. The character of Vincent's father, who is a retired homophobic military general is so stereotypical. You can almost predict where all this will lead to - the rekindling of old flame, infidelity, suspicion, discovery of the affair, and the ensuing family conflict and drama. Who will Vincent choose in the end - his wife or his lover? Sounds familiar? You bet.

-oOo-

Dear MTRCB Board,

I am a concerned citizen, and I would like to write about my disturbed spirit over GMA7's television show "My Husband's Lover" being aired every night as part of their Telebabad series of soap operas.

I am concerned that this show is guided by the gay agenda that deems to desensitize our viewing public with the following ideas about homosexuality:

* Homosexuality is a gift of nature.

* Homosexual behavior cannot be controlled.

* Homosexuals are preoccupied seeking romantic sexual relationships with the same-sex.

* The Church is homophobic and propagate a culture of hate against homosexual persons.

* Homosexuals who are accepted for what they are AND for what they do live happy lives.

* Once a homosexual, always a homosexual.

I am a person with same-sex attractions, and I see these ideas as perversions of the truth about homosexuality, as I counter these lies with the following truths:

* A homosexual is a person with same-sex attractions.

* There is a difference between homosexual attraction and homosexual behavior.

* Homosexuality is not all of genetics but more of environment.

* Homosexuals have choices.

* Change is difficult but possible for the homosexual.

* There are groups available to help homosexuals who decide to change.

* God, through the Church, loves the homosexual person.

=====================================
The Catechism of the Catholic Church clearly states that homosexuals “…must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided.”

- Cardinal Ratzinger’s (now Pope Benedict XVI) Letter to the Bishops On the Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons (1986)
=====================================

I am concerned because I have been engaging in dialogue with the writers of this show on their facebook account, but it seems that they are adamant in presenting their own beliefs about family life and individual human rights (gay rights). With this, it is most likely that they will transmit their own beliefs and values through this show upon our innocently watching viewing public.

I have reminded them of their responsibility as media persons to inculcate authentic Filipino values to our public, but they just scoffed at me and attacked me personally.

I would like to ask your good office to put this show under strict monitoring, for though this show is rated Strict Parental Guidance, we are after the fair treatment of this show on such a sensitive topic such as homosexuality.

Homosexual persons should be treated with respect and compassion, but the promotion of the homosexual lifestyle (having sex with persons of the same sex) as a good thing is a disservice to the general viewing public. Please note that I have viewed the latest data from DOH (March 2013) on HIV cases and homosexual acts is listed as the number one factor of transmitting this disease. This fact along with my own (and others like me) personal journey out of homosexuality begs to disagree.

We owe it to our people to show programs that will lead them to a better understanding of reality, but still inculcating authentic Filipino values about family and marriage.

I hope that my request of strict monitoring of this show would be considered.

Thank you so much and God bless you!

Rolando C. delos Reyes II

-oOo-

Addendum:  To those who want to express their disgust with GMA7's My Husband's Lover which has the subtle message of promoting homosexuality among our young people - please sign the petition below:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/we-stand-for-filipino-morality/

We Are More Than Our Sexual Attractions

This short video contains a very important truth about what the Catholic Church teaches regarding homosexuality. I am fully aware that in our present culture this topic is a very divisive issue. Nevertheless, people struggling with same-sex attraction should never allow themselves to be 'defined' by their struggles. We are definitely MORE than our attractions, MUCH MORE!  Real freedom begins when we come to realize our true identity in God.

S.A.F.E. Seminar

 

 SUBTLE ATTACKS against the FAMILY EXPLAINED

www.safe.ph

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED!!!

to a two-day SAFE seminar on

* Demography and the Overpopulation Hoax

* New Age Movement, a Christless Spirituality

* Values (Mis)education in Schools

* Pornography and Violence in Mass Media

* Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality

* Gospel of Life

* Family in God's Plan

SAFE is open to all sectors of society: family and life workers, education, youth, catechists, media, lawyers, businesses, health care, government, priests and religious, etc.

Every 3rd weekends (Sat 8 a.m. - Sun 5 p.m.) at St. Michael Retreat House, Antipolo

Tel. (02)  661-6312 or 661-6314-16*

Cel #:  0917-896-7202

Website:  www.safe.ph

Bagong Pagasa's Steps Up Retreat in Gensan

 

Forwarded invitation.

Dear Brother,

It has been a wonderful experience journeying with you towards healing being our ministry partner. Indeed, it is difficult to keep our commitment to leave the gay lifestyle behind because we still live in a very gay-affirming society. Remaining faithful to your commitment to your healing journey becomes more challenging without a regular support group.

In this regard, we are inviting you to join BP’s STEPS UP RETREAT in General Santos City on May 24-26, 2013. You will learn about Ex-Gay SURVIVAL TOOLS that will help you OUTWIT, OUTPLAY, and OUTLAST the temptations of the enemy! On top of this, you will get to interact with support group members from BP Manila and BP Cebu, and brothers from other BP network locations. Consider this your “once-in-a-year” support group meeting!

If interested, please contact us at (02)886.4441 / 0927.578.8373, or via e-mail at info@bagongpagasa.org. It is advisable to confirm early so that you may avail of cheap airfare (promo rates). Once we receive your confirmation, we shall send you an application form, and other details about the retreat.

Come and gain a rich sense of the redeeming hope and freedom that is available through our Lord Jesus Christ in this life-changing retreat!

Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Hoping you could come,



John Zulueta

Executive Director

Finding Courage

Bob's story is a familiar story about a God-fearing man who strives sincerely to be a good Christian but finds himself battling with homosexuality.  He keeps the struggle to himself but comes to a point where he realizes he needs help. 


Brothers/Fathers of Courage,

Peace to all of you.

I am 'Bob' (not his real name) of Sorsogon City here in Bicol. I am writing you an e-mail because I am also one of those men who is also bearing the cross of same-sex attraction on me. I am 23 years old and have been struggling for years to overcome the urgencies, weakness, guilt and sin of being a homosexual.

Being like this had been an emotional ride. For, admittedly, I found please in giving in to my weakness and temptations. And after some time, I would hate myself for having done these self-abusing acts. To add to my self-inflicted misery but a light of hope to my life, I am also part of a community. I am quite sure you are familiar with YFC (Youth for Christ) and now SFC (Singles for Christ). Even when I am an active member and even a leader of this group, I still lurk on homosexual practices. I thought doing Christ's works and serving others would "pay-off" these deeds. I have been leaving a "double life". And I have been wrong.

Despite of all of this, Christ manifested His power in me. That in my weakness, there is strength. Through these communities that I have joined, I have known my God better. I have learned to worship Him in times of my trials. Last year, through SFC Knights, (a recollection which defines manhood not of worldly meanings but of God's) and after deep thought and Christ's affirmations in my prayers, I have let go of my same-sex partner for over 4 years. It was painful of course, but it was more of a door towards freedom opened for me by God. I opt to be loved by the One who truly loves me.

Now, I want to remain in His love.

However, the battle is still continuing.  I may have let my partner go yet I am still into pornography.  I still feel attractions to the same sex; however, I don't want to engage in anything. That's probably why I felt porn as the closest thing to the 'deed'. Yes, I know this is wrong and this will not in anyway heal me. I am seeking a support group for I know I could not win this battle alone. I will need prayers, guidance and maybe counseling.

I was happy to learn that Courage org has also its satellite here in the Philippines. I would like to be a part of this group, if you may. I would like to know how for I have been seeking a group that specifically attends to the needs of brothers like me. The only concern is that, I am currently here in Bicol.

Please guide me through any process and pray for me as well. Thank you and God bless.

-oOo-

Bob has found courage in himself to admit that he has a problem and that he needs help. It also takes a lot of courage to let go of a relationship which he has done as well. This is the first step and a very important one. Bob has already contacted us and we are praying that through God's help a Courage chapter in Bicol will be established through the permission of their local bishop.

Fr. Robert Barron on Gay Marriage

Listen up! Fr. Barron comments on Gay Marriage and the Breakdown of Moral Argument. No bigotry, just pure common sense rational thinking.

Yes to You || Spoken Word - Fr. Pontifex

Check out this latest video from Fr. Claude Burns aka Fr. Pontifex, a rapping Roman Catholic priest slash American hip hop artist from the Diocese of Evansville, Indiana. Inspired by Blessed John Paul II’s call for a “New Evangelization,” he embraces the use of many different types of media to reach people with the message of Jesus Christ. In partnership with Spirit Juice Studios, here's the latest video presentation on homosexuality from his series Spoken Word.

The topic of homosexuality and the issues around same sex marriage are very charged in our culture right now. The goal of this video is to communicate what the Church teaches about this topic. However, as the title would suggest, the underlying sentiment throughout the whole presentation is that the Church is a refuge of love for all of humanity. Those that would say that the Church is "anti-gay" are either misinformed or deliberately distorting the truth to push their own agenda. 

For all those who watch this video please understand that the lasting message of "Yes To You" is to let you know that right where you are, with all of your questions, challenges and struggles that the Church indeed says yes to you. You are welcomed and you are loved. We are all in this together.

A Spirit Juice Studios Production

© 2012 Spirit Juice Films. All Rights Reserved

For more of Fr. Pontifex check out his official blog here. And for more of Spirit Juice Studio check out their official website here.

Weekly News (Fourth Week of March 2013)

1. Life Has Exchanged the Tomb for the Sky

Lectio Divina: Easter, Year C

The first day of the week is Sunday, the day in which we celebrate Christ's resurrection. He resurrects in the night, long before the sunshine illuminates this day of celebration. [Read More]

2. Easter's Message of Hope Helps Us Face Trials, Bishops Say

Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle said that turning to God is the most creative approach to problem solving ever imagined. [Read More]

3. Thousands Flood DC to Stand Up For Marriage

Washington D.C., Mar 27, 2013 / 06:04 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Citing concerns for the well-being of children and respect for the democratic process, participants in the national March for Marriage in Washington, D.C., stressed the importance of marriage for society. [Read More]

4. Anderson Cooper Kisses 'Boy Scout' Madonna to Offend Traditional America [Read More]


5. In New Zealand and France, Support for Same-Sex Marriage Wanes as Legalization Looms

(CNSNews.com) – As the U.S. Supreme Court hears oral arguments in two same-sex marriage cases, the approaching passage of laws legalizing same-sex marriage in New Zealand and France appear to be prompting a public opinion shift against the change. [Read More]

6. Why Easter Sunday Matters to the Pro-Life Movement

Of all the holidays and events on our calendars, I believe none are more important than Easter Sunday. [Read More]

7. What Harm Would It Do To Legalize Gay "Marriage"?

At the outset, it is worth noting that this question is often framed in a rather misleading way: “What harm would a same-sex couple getting married do to your opposite-sex marriage?” The issue, however, is not how any one couple’s marriage would affect any other specific couple’s marriage—the issue is how changing the definition of marriage under the law would change the social institution of marriage. [Read More]

8. Must-See Video: A Marriage Expert's Masterful Handling of Piers Morgan


WASHINGTON, D.C., March 28, 2013 (Heritage Foundation) - How do you throw Piers Morgan off his game? Stick to the facts, remain civil and win the argument. Heritage’s Ryan Anderson did exactly that Tuesday night in a showdown with the liberal CNN host of “Piers Morgan Live” and guest Suze Orman. [Read More]

9. Callings and Crosses

Family Matters: Single Life

There are the normative ways to draw close to God. Then there are as many other ways as there are people. [Read More]

10. Delaying Marriage

One of the major social changes in recent times is the postponement of marriage. A recent report examined the implications of this development. [Read More]

Happy Easter!