The Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) is holding its newly developed module on Youth Ministry for the public from 18 to 29 January 2010.
This youth ministry module will cover the situation and challenges facing the youth in Asia, the stages of discipleship, framework and principles of youth ministry, with practical workshops and rich exchange of experiences of mission.
We also would like to take this opportunity to have a dialogue (23 January) on youth situation and youth ministry in Asian countries. We believe that this can help bring about new perspectives and equip participants with knowledge, skills, attitudes and relevant tools for the mission with young people.
Please download these forms for your reference & registration.
IFFAsia Brochure - Youth Ministry
IFFAsia Registration Form - Youth Ministry
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Season's Greetings - Making a Difference
Dear Friends,
During this season, as we are confronted with natural calamities and violence here in Asia, Christmas offers us an opportunity to bring peace in our lives and communities.
By investing in the lives of young people, from diverse backgrounds, we can make a difference in their communities. Think of a young adult you can invite to this year of formation and pass this on.
Fill up and send in all applications by 31 March 2010.
Blessed Christmas & Hope for 2010.
Director, Staff & Students @ IFFAsia
IFFAsia Invite 2009
Download IFFAsia's Information and Application Kits here.
During this season, as we are confronted with natural calamities and violence here in Asia, Christmas offers us an opportunity to bring peace in our lives and communities.
By investing in the lives of young people, from diverse backgrounds, we can make a difference in their communities. Think of a young adult you can invite to this year of formation and pass this on.
Fill up and send in all applications by 31 March 2010.
Blessed Christmas & Hope for 2010.
Director, Staff & Students @ IFFAsia
IFFAsia Invite 2009
Download IFFAsia's Information and Application Kits here.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
An Advent Letter
From the President of Fondacio
At the beginning of this time of Advent, Ignacio Rosselot, President of Fondacio, addresses a letter to the community responsibles and members in the countries where she is present. Among others, it is a call to commit ourselves to the issues of society and to root our lives in Christ, notably through a life of prayer.
Dear friends,
First of all, I want to thank God for all the graces received by Fondacio over the many years, for the gift of faith and for the desire, which remains in the heart of the community, to share with the world the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We do not proclaim a myth or a human fabrication: God manifested Himself to man in a tangible way, one day in history. The time of Advent in which we enter opens us once again to this mystery of incarnation. God Himself comes to meet man in his human level. He has accomplished His promise made in generation to the people of Israel. What disappointment for all those who believed in the coming of a liberator, ready to chase away the Roman powers and to impose on all a new order: a messiah by the standards of the "world". On the other hand, what joy for the poor and the humble of heart who recognized in and through the person of Jesus Christ, a God-Love, who is close to us and merciful: a messiah at the service of "Man".
This God among men comes to propose a path of fulfillment, where love comes first, wellspring of meaning for a fruitful life.
In the Church, through the spirituality of Fondacio, He invites us to take this path, to enter His school, and to collaborate in His mission. Thus, the members of Fondacio are called to commit themselves to the issues of society, to share in the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this time (Vatican II: Gaudium et Spes, 1) while testifying to the hope for a more humane world and while participating in her building. We know how much this path runs counter to the many customs of this world. “You are in the world, but you are not of the world” (John 17: 14-18); this is the paradox to which Jesus invites us: to live in friendship with the world and even to serve it, but, without conforming to its ways.
In order to take this path, we possess a treasure, which is the community, living cell of the Church, privileged place to experience the tenderness of God for all persons, place of speaking and of listening, of welcoming and of sending. Place of blessing and of learning to speak about the good of the other, to change our points of view, to move away from our self-centeredness. Then, with the others, we enter into a "we", instead of a "me / I" first. This is the adventure of communion, among us and in a wider opening to the world. A grace of unity was welcomed at the Congress of Chile. Fondacio is a community one and diverse. We discover ourselves rich in multiple cultures experienced through our presence in more than 25 countries. The ecumenical experience lived in the community, and since recently, the efforts in the dialogue with cultures and religions, are done for reconciliation and for peace. There is relevance in this reality facing the issues in the construction of the human family, a major challenge in our time. We want to participate modestly, but actively, in the realization of unity where Christ invites his Church: "That they be one so that the world believes" (John 17).
Fondacio has developed much these past years. It is necessary for us, today, to be further rooted in Him, the Christ, principle and end of who we are and of our actions. Prayer life must be at the heart of the community. This is already very much the case. She is the rock on which it builds, reinforces and consolidates our personal and community commitments. Let us take the time for individual and collective prayer to breathe in Him. Let bloom this very spontaneous prayer inherited from the renewal which we came from. Let us center always on the Word, the Scriptures, the heritage of the Fathers of the Church. The prayer of Christ and of the Church precedes us and, by the Spirit, we are in relation with the One who is the Source. "The one who remains in me and I in him, that one bears much fruit" (John 15:4). This verse has inspired our last international congress, entitled: "Through Him, with Him and in Him, disciples for the world". This word drives the community. It inspires and nourishes our programs of action. Be faithful, together, in prayer, to the alliance that Christ proposes to us.
With you, I pray for the growth of love among us and for the communion within our community and in the Church. Let us enter together a little more into this mystery of the coming of God on earth in the womb of Mary. Let us prepare ourselves to live this time of Advent in the shared joy of not being called "servants" anymore, but being called "friends" by God.
With brotherly love,
Ignacio ROSSELOT
Lettre de l'Avent
At the beginning of this time of Advent, Ignacio Rosselot, President of Fondacio, addresses a letter to the community responsibles and members in the countries where she is present. Among others, it is a call to commit ourselves to the issues of society and to root our lives in Christ, notably through a life of prayer.
Dear friends,
First of all, I want to thank God for all the graces received by Fondacio over the many years, for the gift of faith and for the desire, which remains in the heart of the community, to share with the world the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We do not proclaim a myth or a human fabrication: God manifested Himself to man in a tangible way, one day in history. The time of Advent in which we enter opens us once again to this mystery of incarnation. God Himself comes to meet man in his human level. He has accomplished His promise made in generation to the people of Israel. What disappointment for all those who believed in the coming of a liberator, ready to chase away the Roman powers and to impose on all a new order: a messiah by the standards of the "world". On the other hand, what joy for the poor and the humble of heart who recognized in and through the person of Jesus Christ, a God-Love, who is close to us and merciful: a messiah at the service of "Man".
This God among men comes to propose a path of fulfillment, where love comes first, wellspring of meaning for a fruitful life.
In the Church, through the spirituality of Fondacio, He invites us to take this path, to enter His school, and to collaborate in His mission. Thus, the members of Fondacio are called to commit themselves to the issues of society, to share in the joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the men of this time (Vatican II: Gaudium et Spes, 1) while testifying to the hope for a more humane world and while participating in her building. We know how much this path runs counter to the many customs of this world. “You are in the world, but you are not of the world” (John 17: 14-18); this is the paradox to which Jesus invites us: to live in friendship with the world and even to serve it, but, without conforming to its ways.
In order to take this path, we possess a treasure, which is the community, living cell of the Church, privileged place to experience the tenderness of God for all persons, place of speaking and of listening, of welcoming and of sending. Place of blessing and of learning to speak about the good of the other, to change our points of view, to move away from our self-centeredness. Then, with the others, we enter into a "we", instead of a "me / I" first. This is the adventure of communion, among us and in a wider opening to the world. A grace of unity was welcomed at the Congress of Chile. Fondacio is a community one and diverse. We discover ourselves rich in multiple cultures experienced through our presence in more than 25 countries. The ecumenical experience lived in the community, and since recently, the efforts in the dialogue with cultures and religions, are done for reconciliation and for peace. There is relevance in this reality facing the issues in the construction of the human family, a major challenge in our time. We want to participate modestly, but actively, in the realization of unity where Christ invites his Church: "That they be one so that the world believes" (John 17).
Fondacio has developed much these past years. It is necessary for us, today, to be further rooted in Him, the Christ, principle and end of who we are and of our actions. Prayer life must be at the heart of the community. This is already very much the case. She is the rock on which it builds, reinforces and consolidates our personal and community commitments. Let us take the time for individual and collective prayer to breathe in Him. Let bloom this very spontaneous prayer inherited from the renewal which we came from. Let us center always on the Word, the Scriptures, the heritage of the Fathers of the Church. The prayer of Christ and of the Church precedes us and, by the Spirit, we are in relation with the One who is the Source. "The one who remains in me and I in him, that one bears much fruit" (John 15:4). This verse has inspired our last international congress, entitled: "Through Him, with Him and in Him, disciples for the world". This word drives the community. It inspires and nourishes our programs of action. Be faithful, together, in prayer, to the alliance that Christ proposes to us.
With you, I pray for the growth of love among us and for the communion within our community and in the Church. Let us enter together a little more into this mystery of the coming of God on earth in the womb of Mary. Let us prepare ourselves to live this time of Advent in the shared joy of not being called "servants" anymore, but being called "friends" by God.
With brotherly love,
Ignacio ROSSELOT
Lettre de l'Avent
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Come Together, Share the Word, Live the Eucharist
A Reflection on the Asian Youth Day 2009
During the Days in the Diocese in Kalookan, a wonderful and beautiful opening mass was presided by Bishop Deogracias Yniguez. In his homily, he mentioned a few important points: chosen, learn, see beyond, personal growth, enthusiasm, youth needing company / a group coming together. These words touched my heart and brought me closer to the heart of God. And they were important also because I realized that my heart was awakening from this point onwards to yield to God’s words. It seems I have been away from God; I only just seek out my interest rather than God’s will, even though I am in the mission field.
On the first day of AYD, I saw the local citizens standing at the roadside and dancing to welcome us. With fireworks in the sky, all the AYD delegates, and the many bishops and priests, gathered at the Imus Cathedral for the opening ceremony and the celebration of the mass. It was such a significant moment for me, even though I had to sit on the floor (and disliked the fact that there were only two toilets in the area!). Bishop Tagle, who presided the mass, said that he was once touched when Pope John Paul II told him that Jesus, Mary, Moses… all came from Asia. It is a time now for Asia to lead the spiritual movement in the world. I liked the presentation of a little blind girl; she had a wonderful voice, and she said that all are in a JOURNEY OF THE HEART. I fully agreed with what she said, about being rather than doing.
I liked the morning prayer – the sharing of rice with one another. Bishop Dominic shared that THE EUCHARIST IS THE GIFT THAT JESUS REVEALED TO US, THE EUCHARIST FORMS THE CHURCH; JESUS IS THE FOOD OF THE JOURNEY. I liked these sentences the most – GOD IS RICE; HEAVEN IS RICE. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EUCHARIST AND THE COSMOS IS LIKE BREAD & WINE; AND THE EUCHARIST HELPS US TO SEE THE UNITY OF GOD’S PLAN. While sharing with Fr. Frans from Indonesia and Ruth from the Philippines, I realized that my selfishness is not easy to let go. GOD IS RICE, and rice is for everybody. But I just look for those who are Catholic or who I feel comfortable with. I hope that this realization can motivate me to do something new towards my life’s direction.
Another significant moment for me was when I saw Bishop Tagle shed tears in front of us. He thanked those volunteers who helped in the event. I witnessed a humble care and love from him.
Although the events made me tired because of lack of sleep, I thank God who gave me the chance to witness 4,000 youth and volunteers come together to sing and dance, and hand in hand say OUR FATHER. It was such a beautiful and touching moment for me; it gave me much hope for the future. I am happy also to have the chance once again to meet my fellow graduates of IFFAsia. It was like encountering the spirit of TOGETHERNESS. When I saw Vian, Nga, Ngui, Toeur, Sophal, Mary, Nestor, Alice, Chieko, Wilfred, Zack, Lucy and some students from the 4th batch, I felt the spirit jumping in my heart. I believe that there is something more for us in this encounter, especially for myself. I long once again for all of us to COME TOGETHER, SHARE THE WORD, LIVE THE EUCHARIST IN COMMUNITY.
Sometimes I ask God how much of the impact or fruits of the event will the youth bring back to their countries. Will these give influence to the youth? But, I believe that the first part of the theme - COME TOGETHER - means a lot from the beginning. For the rest of the theme, God will move and touch the hearts which are thirsty for HIM.
I thank God for allowing me to witness and take part in this wonderful event. I received marvelous graces from God through the youth. I also thank Him that I witnessed HIS LOVE for the youth of Asia.
Mag Chin
Fondacio Malaysia
For more information, please visit the official website of the latest Asian Youth Day 2009.
During the Days in the Diocese in Kalookan, a wonderful and beautiful opening mass was presided by Bishop Deogracias Yniguez. In his homily, he mentioned a few important points: chosen, learn, see beyond, personal growth, enthusiasm, youth needing company / a group coming together. These words touched my heart and brought me closer to the heart of God. And they were important also because I realized that my heart was awakening from this point onwards to yield to God’s words. It seems I have been away from God; I only just seek out my interest rather than God’s will, even though I am in the mission field.
On the first day of AYD, I saw the local citizens standing at the roadside and dancing to welcome us. With fireworks in the sky, all the AYD delegates, and the many bishops and priests, gathered at the Imus Cathedral for the opening ceremony and the celebration of the mass. It was such a significant moment for me, even though I had to sit on the floor (and disliked the fact that there were only two toilets in the area!). Bishop Tagle, who presided the mass, said that he was once touched when Pope John Paul II told him that Jesus, Mary, Moses… all came from Asia. It is a time now for Asia to lead the spiritual movement in the world. I liked the presentation of a little blind girl; she had a wonderful voice, and she said that all are in a JOURNEY OF THE HEART. I fully agreed with what she said, about being rather than doing.
I liked the morning prayer – the sharing of rice with one another. Bishop Dominic shared that THE EUCHARIST IS THE GIFT THAT JESUS REVEALED TO US, THE EUCHARIST FORMS THE CHURCH; JESUS IS THE FOOD OF THE JOURNEY. I liked these sentences the most – GOD IS RICE; HEAVEN IS RICE. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EUCHARIST AND THE COSMOS IS LIKE BREAD & WINE; AND THE EUCHARIST HELPS US TO SEE THE UNITY OF GOD’S PLAN. While sharing with Fr. Frans from Indonesia and Ruth from the Philippines, I realized that my selfishness is not easy to let go. GOD IS RICE, and rice is for everybody. But I just look for those who are Catholic or who I feel comfortable with. I hope that this realization can motivate me to do something new towards my life’s direction.
Another significant moment for me was when I saw Bishop Tagle shed tears in front of us. He thanked those volunteers who helped in the event. I witnessed a humble care and love from him.
Although the events made me tired because of lack of sleep, I thank God who gave me the chance to witness 4,000 youth and volunteers come together to sing and dance, and hand in hand say OUR FATHER. It was such a beautiful and touching moment for me; it gave me much hope for the future. I am happy also to have the chance once again to meet my fellow graduates of IFFAsia. It was like encountering the spirit of TOGETHERNESS. When I saw Vian, Nga, Ngui, Toeur, Sophal, Mary, Nestor, Alice, Chieko, Wilfred, Zack, Lucy and some students from the 4th batch, I felt the spirit jumping in my heart. I believe that there is something more for us in this encounter, especially for myself. I long once again for all of us to COME TOGETHER, SHARE THE WORD, LIVE THE EUCHARIST IN COMMUNITY.
Sometimes I ask God how much of the impact or fruits of the event will the youth bring back to their countries. Will these give influence to the youth? But, I believe that the first part of the theme - COME TOGETHER - means a lot from the beginning. For the rest of the theme, God will move and touch the hearts which are thirsty for HIM.
I thank God for allowing me to witness and take part in this wonderful event. I received marvelous graces from God through the youth. I also thank Him that I witnessed HIS LOVE for the youth of Asia.
Mag Chin
Fondacio Malaysia
For more information, please visit the official website of the latest Asian Youth Day 2009.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Word of the Month (December 2009)
Isaiah 9: 2-6
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness -
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness -
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
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