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MFC CANADA COMMUNITY PRAYER 2020

Almighty Father, in these dark times when evil is rampant throughout the world, you have called us, chosen us, and appointed us to rise in defense of your work. We are your missionary families, commissioned to defend faith, family and life.

Lord Jesus, you are the Rock upon which our families, our community and our Church are founded. With you as cornerstone, help us to be built as living stones into a spiritual house, holy and acceptable. Build this house to withstand the floods and winds of adversity that assault us each day.

Holy Spirit, send us forth as your holy warriors, with clarity of vision and zeal for mission. Empower us in the proclamation of the gospel of salvation in Jesus, and help us in defending our Church against the forces that seek to weaken her.

Mama Mary, teach us the way of kindness and mercy, unite us as your beloved children, and keep us in your loving embrace always.

Amen.



Bro. Frank with Pope Francis


At his meeting with Pope Francis on October 25, 2013, Bro Frank presented his new book to the Pope

Bro. Frank with Pope Benedict XVI


Frank and Gerry Padilla present the books "Servant Leadership" and "Stories from Prison" to His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, on February 09, 2010, at the Vatican

CONSECRATION TO OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY

O Blessed Virgin Mary, you with your Son Jesus crushed the head of the serpent. In the spiritual war that continues to rage in the heavens and on earth, you have already won the victory. Your holy warriors stand before you, dear Mother Mary. We consecrate ourselves to the cause of your Son Jesus, the Redeemer of the world, and to you as his Co-Redemptrix. We dedicate ourselves to the task of winning souls for the Kingdom. We commit to do battle against all evil forces. Cover us with your mantle of protection as you send us forth under your banner. Amen.

Ecclesiastical and Pontifical Recognition:


Useful links

Catholic Bishops Drop Moves to Accept Gays

By Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Roman Catholic bishops on Saturday reversed a historic acceptance of gays, dropping parts of a controversial document that had talked more positively of homosexuals than ever before in Church history.

The document, issued at the end of a two-week assembly, or synod, of some 200 Roman Catholic bishops from around the world, pointed to deep divisions within the Church on issues such as reaching out to homosexuals and Catholics who have divorced and re-married in civil services.



CFCFFL CANADA 2014 EASTERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE

A two-day of spiritual awakening and empowerment, held in St. John Paul II Polish Cultural Center, 4300 Cawthra Road, Mississauga, ON.



CFCFFL CANADA 2014 CLERGY NIGHT

Couples For Christ Foundation for Family and Life (CFCFFL) hosted the 7th Annual Clergy Appreciation Night on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at the Millennium Gardens Banquet Centre, located at 20 Polonia Avenue, Brampton, Ontario. Once each year, our community welcomes the opportunity to express our thanks, respect, and solidarity with our Cardinal, Archbishop, Bishops, Priests, and Deacons (and their wives) for the support they have extended to CFCFFL Canada.



WWP Partners with Habitat for Humanity

WWP Partners with Habitat for Humanity

CFC-FFL Work With the Poor & Health Ministries, together with Intellicare (an HMO company), conducted an initial Annual Physical Examination (APE) at CFC Brampton Restoration Village on Sunday, Apr.22, 2012, at the RV site at Grezar, Brgy. Bagbag, Novaliches. Doctors from the CFC-FFL Health Ministry were on hand to do the physical assessment while Intellicare bought along their mobile clinic & staff to do the CBC, Fecalysis, Urinalysis, and X-Ray. A total of 170 beneficiaries (adults & children) availed of the services. The activity is part of a comprehensive health program for the RV site with Intellicare as partner. They will be conducting a yearly APE to monitor the health conditions of the beneficiaries. Intellicare has sponsored the on-going construction of a permanent clinic at the 3rd floor of the RV community center . by: Bonjie Bonjibud



CFC-FFL Health Ministry

CFC-FFL Health Ministry

CFC-FFL Work With the Poor & Health Ministries, together with Intellicare (an HMO company), conducted an initial Annual Physical Examination (APE) at CFC Brampton Restoration Village on Sunday, Apr.22, 2012, at the RV site at Grezar, Brgy. Bagbag, Novaliches. Doctors from the CFC-FFL Health Ministry were on hand to do the physical assessment while Intellicare bought along their mobile clinic & staff to do the CBC, Fecalysis, Urinalysis, and X-Ray. A total of 170 beneficiaries (adults & children) availed of the services. The activity is part of a comprehensive health program for the RV site with Intellicare as partner. They will be conducting a yearly APE to monitor the health conditions of the beneficiaries. Intellicare has sponsored the on-going construction of a permanent clinic at the 3rd floor of the RV community center . by: Bonjie Bonjibud



Project: BABY DIAPERS & WIPES

Project: BABY DIAPERS & WIPES

As seen in this picture are the donations collected during the 2012 Advent Appeal for Diapers and Wipes received by St. Mary Doolittle of the Sisters of Life. Compare to last year's appeal, our collections increased more than threefold this year and Sisters of Life was so much grateful for the timely delivery of diapers, wipes and petroleum jellies which they said had provided relief to them due to the increasing number of mothers who gave birth to babies saved from abortion. Families they now serve include those refugees and migrant workers whom they discovered to be very vulnerable to sending their children to abortion mills. Collections came from almost all chapters in the GTA District but this time we noted the active participation of the Handmaids and YFL.



WHO IS THE COUPLES FOR CHRIST FOUNDATION FOR FAMILY & LIFE (CFCFFL) CANADA?

WHO IS THE COUPLES FOR CHRIST FOUNDATION FOR FAMILY & LIFE (CFCFFL) CANADA?

The Couples For Christ Foundation for Family & Life (CFCFFL) is a gathering of Christian believers having evangelization and family life renewal as its main focus. CFCFFL is a missionary body, and the families that make up this association are to be families that will be instruments of the Holy Spirit in renewing the face of the earth. Although it is based in the Philippines, the membership is also spread throughout the world having members in all continents. It was formed in Manila, Philippines on July 30, 2007 by Frank Padilla, whom many Bishops regard as the founder (charism bearer) of Couples For Christ, a private lay organization duly recognized by the Vatican for which he has been recognized as its Director.



MARCH FOR LIFE

MARCH FOR LIFE

Three-bus load CFC-FFL members joined in the March For Life in Ottawa on May 9, 2013. Over 30,000 people coming from various schools, dioceses and pro-life organizations of Ottawa, Peterborough, Pembroke, Quebec, Montreal, GTA and Hamilton. This year's National March for Life is the largest crowd ever. Members of clergy including Toronto Cardinal Thomas Collins who addressed the crowd briefly, were present. More than a dozen of pro-life MPs and Senators stood on the steps of Parliament Hill to express their support and encouragement.



Join the next internationally coordinated campaign to save lives, this coming Fall from September 24 - Nov 2, 2014!

Join the next internationally coordinated campaign to save lives, this coming Fall from September 24 - Nov 2, 2014!

Join the next internationally coordinated campaign to save lives, this coming Fall from September 24 - Nov 2, 2014! This fall there will be hundreds of communities in North America, including many Canadian cities, simultaneously hosting a 40 Days For Life campaign from September 24 - November 2, 2014. These campaigns produce tremendous fruits. In many Canadian cities, dozens of babies have been saved from abortion. If you wish to join the next 40 Days For Life in your community, please contact your local campaign coordinator (below) and find out how you can sign up as a vigil volunteer. Please consider becoming a prayer volunteer by donating at least 1 hour of prayer and fasting in front of the local abortion facility. If you are part of a church community, perhaps your pastor would like to "Adopt a day"? Click on the city links below to contact local coordinators and to register online for the vigil schedule



GIDEON 10,000

GIDEON 10,000

LCSC is our lay response to the call to the New Evangelization. Through LCSC we will do rapid and massive evangelization, focusing on the lapsed or non-practicing Catholics (though not exclusively). LCSC has 4 pillars, all of critical importance. They are Live Pure (youth chastity), Live the Word (focus on Bible appreciation), Live Life (pro-life advocacy) and Live Full (our work of building the Church of the Poor through the No One In Need movement).



Catholic Bishops Drop Moves to Accept Gays

Catholic Bishops Drop Moves to Accept Gays

By Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Roman Catholic bishops on Saturday reversed a historic acceptance of gays, dropping parts of a controversial document that had talked more positively of homosexuals than ever before in Church history.

The document, issued at the end of a two-week assembly, or synod, of some 200 Roman Catholic bishops from around the world, pointed to deep divisions within the Church on issues such as reaching out to homosexuals and Catholics who have divorced and re-married in civil services.



CBCP on so Called ACTS of GOD

CBCP on so Called ACTS of GOD

Statement on the Use of "Acts of God". While "acts of God" is a commonly used phrase in contracts, insurance contracts particularly, and even in law and in jurisprudence, it is time we use more felicitous expressions that are in fact already available: fortuitous events, natural calamities, force majeure among many others.



CFC-FFL conducts Liturgical Bible Study (LBS)

CFC-FFL conducts Liturgical Bible Study (LBS)

CFC-FFL conducts Liturgical Bible Study (LBS) as its biblical apostolate. 166 members from the GTA Central and East clusters attended the first LBS seminar held at St. Thomas More Parish Hall on March 17, 2012. Similar seminars were also conducted in Brampton, Mississauga and Hamilton chapters as wells as in Ottawa and Sarnia. The LBS team is lead by Jose Lee with members, Aladin Matinong, Nell Gallardo and Florie Lee.



2014 National March For Life

2014 National March For Life

CFC-FFL joins thousands of marchers that gather in front of the Parliament building in Ottawa every year to stand up for the unborn. This year more than 25,000 gathered coming from different cities in Ontario. Scores of speakers composed of MPs, senators and members of clergy including Cardinal Tom Collins spoke in support of the cause.



REPORT AND REFLECTIONS

ON THE III EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

OF THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

REPORT AND REFLECTIONS

ON THE III EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

OF THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

October 23, 2014

 

Introduction

 

The III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops happened from October 5 to 18, 2014, at Vatican City. The assembly was called by Pope Francis to discuss “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization.” There were 186 Synod Fathers (61 cardinals, 67 archbishops, 47 bishops, others), 8 fraternal delegates (Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, Coptic Orthodox, Syrian Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, Reformed, Baptist), 16 experts and 38 auditors, for a total of 248 participants, coming from all continents of the world. The auditors were the lay participants. The language of the synod was in Italian, French, Spanish, English and German.



POSTSCRIPT ON THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

POSTSCRIPT ON THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

The divide between progressive and traditionalist bishops at the Synod was basically on how to treat people on the wrong side of sexuality, that is, those who are into cohabitation, the divorced and remarried, and same-sex unions. The progressives would like to be nice, caring, accepting, welcoming, non-judgmental, merciful, compassionate and even bend “the rules” backward a bit to accommodate those in such situations. On the other hand, the traditionalists insist on Christian morality, truth, Church teaching, renunciation of sin, repentance for wrongdoing, and healing the wound rather than just putting balm on it.



THIRD WORLD CONGRESS OF ECCLESIAL MOVEMENTS

 AND NEW COMMUNITIES

THIRD WORLD CONGRESS OF ECCLESIAL MOVEMENTS

 AND NEW COMMUNITIES

November 29, 2014

This Third World Congress of Ecclesial Movements and New Communities was held by the Pontifical Council for the Laity in Rome on November 20-22, 2014. The theme of the congress was “The Joy of the Gospel: a Missionary Joy.”

The congress was participated in by 300 people from 100 movements from 40 countries in all continents, with many founders and general moderators. There were also clerics, including 3 cardinals and 7 (arch)bishops. Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, presided.



CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2015

CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2015

Almighty Father, you are our Creator and God. We acknowledge your dominion over us, that we belong to you, that you hold our very lives in your hands. We come before you in worship and praise.

Lord Jesus, you are our Savior and Master. You call us into your body on earth, making us brethren to one another. Bind us together as one, united in your heart and mind, able to live and serve as your holy instruments.

Holy Spirit, fill us and continue to empower us to witness. Guide us and equip us in the work of evangelization. Give us the boldness to proclaim Christ, wherever we are, until this work reaches the very ends of the earth.

Triune God, you have given us the privilege of being stewards of your grace and mercy. Help us to be faithful, to claim nothing as our own, to give without counting the cost, to endure and joyfully embrace the cross. Favor us, Lord, so that by our common work the needs of all will be met.

Mama Mary, we look to your quiet strength and fullness of grace. Accord us great favor as you intercede for our needs and for our work. May your Son Jesus be glorified in all we do.

Amen.



Speech of His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila at the end of the Holy Eucharist

Speech of His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila at the end of the Holy Eucharist

Most Holy Father,

Before you this morning are representatives of the bishops, priests, religious men and women and lay faithful of the Philippines and of Asia. In their name I welcome you to our country, to the city of Manila and to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. We are filled with joy for you are with us, especially in the first Eucharistic celebration of your pastoral visit.



Praised but imprisoned: Polish bishops support Mary Wagner

Praised but imprisoned: Polish bishops support Mary Wagner

WARSAW, Poland, January 28, 2015 (LifeSiteNews.com) -- On January 10, Bishop Henryk Tomasik of Radom, Poland, spoke about freedom of expression and Mary Wagner, a Canadian pro-lifer arrested on Christmas Eve.

Wagner is known for entering abortion clinics to save unborn babies and to prevent their mothers from making a terrible mistake. This prisoner of conscience had already spent two years in a Canadian jail.



Annual Live Pure Conference. Pure happiness!!

Annual Live Pure Conference. Pure happiness!!

An ocean of stars giving praise to the Lord. 10,000 young people at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila during the annual Live Pure Conference. Pure happiness on August 30, 2015
"For to me life is Christ, and death is gain." (Phil 1:21)



SYNODOS (Part 90) BATTLE AT THE SYNOD - 8

SYNODOS (Part 90) BATTLE AT THE SYNOD - 8

October 23, 2014

 

Introduction

 

Please pray intently for our prelates meeting at the Synod of Bishops on October 4 to 25. The battle lines are drawn, with the liberals/progressives/modernists all set to sacrifice truth and traditional Catholic morality and teaching for the sake of a false mercy that condones sin. Pray that the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, will preserve our Church, the one true Church, from serious error that can lead to schism.



CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2016

CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2016

Almighty Father, in the richness of your mercy you sent your own Son Jesus into the world to suffer and die for us. As you did not spare your own Son, we confidently look to your granting us everything else besides. May your mercy and grace be always upon us.

Lord Jesus Christ, you told us to be merciful just as our Father is merciful. You showed us the way to mercy when on the cross you forgave those who crucified you. Such divine mercy is very challenging for us. Only in you and through your grace in our lives can we ever hope to be channels of mercy to others. Jesus, we trust in you.

Holy Spirit, help us to understand the mystery of divine mercy. Help us to forgive those who trespass against us. Help us to love our enemies. Help us to love and care for the poor. Enable us to effectively proclaim the gospel of God's mercy. Show us the way to holiness unto the Lord.

Mama Mary, full of grace and Mother of mercy, guide us in the way we are to go, and keep us in your loving embrace always.

Amen.



The Canadian Supreme Court's bestiality decision: 5 things to consider

The Canadian Supreme Court's bestiality decision: 5 things to consider

by: Jonathon van Maren
Reprinted with permission from The Bridgehead.

June 10, 2016 (TheBridgehead) -- "Man has always lost his way," G.K. Chesterton once wrote, "He has always lost his way, but now he has lost his address."

It was that wise analysis that popped into my head when I logged into Facebook yesterday and scrolled past dozens of stories from around the world, all announcing that the Canadian Supreme Court had just declared that "most bestiality is legal," in the words of Britain's Independent. I wasn't particularly enthused that Canada's last prance across world news was brought on by our freshman prime minister's smug stammerings and shirtless pics, but it seems new lows can always be achieved.



WE ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS! CBCP Statement on the Orlando Tragedy

WE ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS! CBCP Statement on the Orlando Tragedy

The scene is becoming disturbingly frequent in the United States - lifeless bodies strewn all over the place, and an assailant gone berserk who, by brazen thoughtlessness, changes lives and communities forever. With the families of those who lost their lives at Orlando, Florida, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines grieves. We, bishops of the Philippine Church, unite ourselves with those who mourn in prayer. But a tragedy like this challenges us to ask ourselves how we can all, not Americans alone, become a better people after having recovered from our grief.



Annual Live Pure Conference. Pure happiness!!

Annual Live Pure Conference. Pure happiness!!



CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2017

CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2017

Heavenly Father, you are the Creator and we are all your children. Make us truly one. Protect us from the division in families, in communities, in the Church and in the world.

Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Savior who died for us and saved us. Now as your disciples, you send us forth to proclaim the good news of salvation in you throughout the world. May we be worthy witnesses. Show us the way to self-denial, embrace of the cross, and following you. Raise among us true servant leaders who have a passion for souls.

Holy Spirit, you are the agent of evangelization who sends us to engage in spiritual warfare. Equip us with the armor of God and weapons of righteousness. Help us to preserve unity in the Spirit through the bond of peace. May we stand together as your holy warriors.

Triune God, you are three Persons in one God. In you we have one baptism, one faith, one hope. We are one body. Help us to truly become united in mind and heart, in vision and mission, to be one with the Father through the Son and in the Spirit.

Mama Mary, you are our beloved Mother. We are your offspring who strive to keep God's commands, bear witness to Jesus, and wage war in the Spirit against the enemy. Cover us with your mantle of protection, keeping us in your loving embrace always.

Amen.



Patrick Brown pressured MPPs to vote for radical pro-LGBTQ bill or stay away: Campaign Life

Patrick Brown pressured MPPs to vote for radical pro-LGBTQ bill or stay away: Campaign Life

TORONTO, November 29, 2016 (LifeSiteNews) - Ontario Progressive Conservative leader Patrick Brown pressured his MPPs to either vote for the radical pro-LGBTQ Bill 28 or absent themselves, sources within the party have told Campaign Life Coalition. The controversial bill, which legally redefines the family - including substituting "mother" and "father" for parent - to accommodate homosexual activists, was passed unanimously at Queen's Park Tuesday by 79 MPPs from all parties.




Bowling Fellowship

Bowling Fellowship

Winners of the Bowling Fellowship held at the Planet Bowl in Mississauga on April 29, 2017.



Bowling Fellowship

Bowling Fellowship

The crowd who came to the Bowling Fellowship held at the Planet Bowl in Mississauga on April 29, 2017.



You Matter!

You Matter!

More than 8,500 young people gathered at Circuit Makati for the 2017 Live Pure Conference! The theme of the LPCon was #YouMatter, to show that everyone is special, has a vocation, can pursue their passion and make a difference.



Life in Christ Seminar in Glenfield, North Shore, New Zealand, with 47 graduates.



Life in Christ Seminar at Holy Family Parish, Gwarimpa Life Camp, Abuja, Nigeria. This is the 30th country where LCSC is established.



CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2018

CFC-FFL COMMUNITY PRAYER 2018

Great and Almighty God, you are our Father in heaven, and you destine us to be as you are, as you call us to holiness and perfection. You set us as priests in our homes, and we offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to you.

Lord Jesus, we are your body on earth, a people of your own. You give us to each other as brethren and co-workers, caring for and loving each other and building up our community. Help us to grow in authentic servanthood as we renew the family and serve your Church.

Holy Spirit, you send us forth to proclaim the good news of salvation in Jesus. We are your holy warriors. Continue to equip and strengthen us, empower us to overcome the enemy, and let us bring your righteousness to the ends of the earth.

Triune God, we belong to you. We are nothing apart from you. But in you and with you and through you, we are destined for greatness. Send us forth, not to be high and mighty, but to be low and lowly. May all the glory be yours, now and forever.

Mother Mary, your soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and the Mighty One has done great things for you. As your beloved children, lead us along the right paths, until we attain to the greatness that is our destiny.

Amen.



NEW YEAR MESSAGE: HE WILL BE GREAT

NEW YEAR MESSAGE: HE WILL BE GREAT

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

January 1, 2018


Christmas is such a wonderful time, full of laughter, partying, gift-giving and blessings. The peace we experience belies the turmoil that rages around us in the world. We continue to look at the manger scene so peaceful and serene, and the Christ child so simple and innocent. Who would have thought that three decades later, Jesus would be rejected, tortured and killed?


We look at Mary sweet and radiant Mother Mary. With joy she gave birth to Jesus, and with joy she and Joseph presented him in the Temple. But Simeon, even as he exulted in the presence of the Messiah, spoke troubling words to her: "and you yourself a sword will pierce" (Lk 2:35a). Who would have thought that three decades later, Mary would see her Son suffer rejection, betrayal, abandonment, derision and torture?


In fact, after we have just celebrated the Nativity of Jesus on December 25, we celebrate feasts and memorials that are challenging, to say the least.

  • December 26 - Stephen, the first martyr.
  • December 27 - John the Apostle, exiled at Patmos.
  • December 28 - The Holy Innocents, massacred by Herod.
  • December 29 - St Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr.

Then on December 31, the last day of the year, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family. This points us to our vision and charism, which is renewing the family and defending life. Our life and work is founded on the coming of Christ, and we are Couples for Christ. Our goal is to help preserve, defend, renew and strengthen the Christian family. To that end, we do rapid, massive and worldwide evangelization, which work engages us in great challenges, bringing oppression, persecution, suffering and pain.


Christ suffered for us; we too will suffer for Christ. As we encounter the ever deepening darkness in the world, we can always look back to the radiance of the star that shone on the manger in Bethlehem. We know that "the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." (Jn 1:5). We stand on the truth of the Incarnation. "For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord." (Lk 1:11).


As we start a new year, as we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God, ponder all these realities, just like Mary. "And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart." (Lk 2:19). Thus be encouraged in our struggle. Jesus the Savior is born. Know who he truly is. "He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end. "(Lk 1:32-33). Such is the greatness of our God.


This is the Jesus whom we proclaim to the world. This is Jesus in whose steps we follow. This is Jesus whose cross we, and so many other saints and martyrs before us, have embraced.


It is a new year. Let us go forth in the power of the Spirit and win this world for Christ.Christmas is such a wonderful time, full of laughter, partying, gift-giving and blessings. The peace we experience belies the turmoil that rages around us in the world. We continue to look at the manger scene so peaceful and serene, and the Christ child so simple and innocent. Who would have thought that three decades later, Jesus would be rejected, tortured and killed?



CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2017 GOD IS WITH US

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2017 GOD IS WITH US

December 25, 2017


"Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel" (Mt 1:23)


Emmanuel! God is with us! The Word has become flesh! Jesus, the Son of God, became man and walked the earth. Even today Jesus continues to walk with us through his Spirit. And he will return, to judge the nations.


Our whole lives revolve on Jesus. Or ought to. Unfortunately for many, such is not the case. Many nations, even the so-called Christian ones, are dominated by Herods who seek to destroy Jesus and what he stands for. The darkness, already dispelled by the star at Jesus' birth, is growing deeper.


But this is precisely why Jesus came into the world. He is Savior and Lord. He brings us salvation. He brings us peace. He unites us under his headship.


Today we rejoice and celebrate his birth. We thank God for the coming of Jesus into our lives, making all the difference for us and our families. We look at the Christ child, united with Mary and Joseph as the Holy Family. We look at the magi and the shepherds, rich and poor united in homage to the King. We hear the heavenly host singing, uniting the heavens and the earth in their praises to God.


Let us strive to always focus on Jesus in our lives, to have him at the center of our families and homes, and to proclaim him to the whole world.


Merry Christmas to you and all your loved ones. God bless you all.



MFC CANADA COMMUNITY PRAYER 2019

MFC CANADA COMMUNITY PRAYER 2019

Almighty Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, may you be glorified as we and our households serve you.

Lord Jesus, you who are not ashamed to call us brothers, help us to do the will of our heavenly Father, so that we would be deserving to be your true family. Keep us secure along the paths of holiness and discipleship, and to be always obedient to you as our Master.

Holy Spirit, you who are the love that binds Father and Son together, empower us to know the love of Christ and be filled with all the fullness of God. Strengthen us as we endure the challenges of the authentic Christian life, and help us to be perfect through suffering.

Triune God, keep us, our households and our community steadfast in our resolve to serve you. Send us forth to be families on mission. Use us in order to witness to your love and to establish your dominion over the whole world.

Mama Mary, comfort us in our afflictions, cover us with your mantle of protection, and keep us in your loving embrace always.

Amen.



FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL
THE NEW EVANGELIZATION
(Part 248)
NOT UNDERSTANDING THE NEW EVANGELIZATION

FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL
THE NEW EVANGELIZATION
(Part 248)
NOT UNDERSTANDING THE NEW EVANGELIZATION

 

FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL

THE NEW EVANGELIZATION
(Part 248)

NOT UNDERSTANDING THE NEW EVANGELIZATION


December 11, 2018

Today’s readings:
Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 96:1-13
Matthew 18:12-14


To address the growing challenges to the faith in this third millennium, the Holy Spirit has called for the New Evangelization. Unfortunately, most Catholics have not heard about it, or do not know about it, or do not understand it. Thus our Church is missing a great opportunity for an outpouring of grace and a much-desired revival.


In what ways do we not understand what is the New Evangelization? Or put another way, in what ways has our Church acted, and still act, that shows this lack of understanding?


Not being a missionary Church
The New Evangelization is a call to worldwide mission. The psalmist says, “Tell his glory among the nations, among all peoples, his marvelous deeds” (Ps 96:3). Our Church is a missionary Church. She exists for mission. But rather than continuing to expand her work and reach, she is shrinking.


Our parishes are not focused on evangelization. If there is evangelization, it is but one of the different ministries, rather than having evangelization as the thread that weaves through all the different parish ministries. Further, evangelization is thought of as just some programs, mostly focused on formation.


The ordinary Catholic does not have knowledge of or a mindset about evangelization and mission. But this is what a Christian is supposed to be.


Not searching for the lost sheep
The New Evangelization is a call to search for and bring back the lost sheep, those Catholics that are nominal or lapsed. “If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray?” (Mt 18:12). God does not want anyone to be lost. “It is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.” (Mt 18:14). Jesus came to save us. This aspect of faith is of the utmost importance.


Tragically, today it is not one but the 99 that are lost! There is growing apostasy in our Church, and we are losing Catholics by the day. They are being taken by the world, by sects and even by cults.


 

Regular Church attendance is a low single-digit in parts of Europe, and in the teens for most of the rest of the world. Even in places where churches are packed on Sunday, many are still not accounted for, as parishes have no concerted effort to go to the grassroots at the peripheries.


Missing the first step in evangelization
The New Evangelization emphasizes the kerygma, the proclamation of the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ. Every Catholic is to become an evangelizer. “A voice says, ‘Proclaim!’” (Is 40:6a). This is the missing first step in the process of evangelization. It is what leads to repentance and faith in Jesus. When the gospel is proclaimed, people hear, believe, call upon the name of the Lord, and are saved. Without this initial first step, then how can anything else follow?


Our Church today focuses on many things (important as they are) such as catechism, sacraments, liturgical feasts, conferences and social justice, but miss out on evangelization.


Absence of rapid and massive evangelization
The New Evangelization is a call to rapid and massive evangelization. The psalmist says, “proclaim his salvation day after day.” (Ps 96:2b). Day after day, each and every day! Since 99 of the 100 sheep are lost, evangelization must be rapid and massive. How else are we going to be able to reach them all?


Such massive work is not in the mindset of many parishes and dioceses. Much energy is spent in doing many works, but evangelization happens just every now and then, if at all.


Being a Church of maintenance
The New Evangelization is a call to mission, searching for the lost sheep, and not just tending to the flock that remains. “And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray.” (Mt 18:13).


The Church does a good job of caring for the flock that is active and engaged. There are very many good parish programs, ministries and support groups. Unfortunately, most Catholics are not there to partake of the feast that is on the table. They need to be searched for and brought back to God and back to the Church.


It is ironic that our Church focuses on maintenance, but is unable to maintain our Catholics. We are losing them by the day.


Lack of focus on Christ
The New Evangelization brings us back to a focus on Jesus the Savior. We are to meet Christ, live Christ, and share Christ. He is King and Lord. So we “declare among the nations: The Lord is king.” (Ps 96:10a).


Not focused on holiness
The New Evangelization is a call to holiness and Christian perfection. We are to be like God. We are to “bow down to the Lord, splendid in holiness.” (Ps 96:9a). Holiness is hardly spoken of today. The ordinary Catholic does not even know what holiness means. Thus we have many Catholics who go to Mass and receive Communion, but the rest of the week are indulging in works of the flesh.


Lack of empowerment by the Spirit for spiritual warfare
The New Evangelization is a call to engage in spiritual warfare against a powerful enemy, but with the assurance of victory by the power of the Holy Spirit, who is the agent of evangelization. “Here comes with power the Lord God, who rules by his strong arm” (Is 40:10a).


We cannot prevail against the evil one just on our own strength. We need divine power to do divine work. But many today do not know the Holy Spirit. Many do not even know that when they evangelize, they are automatically engaged in spiritual warfare. That makes dependence upon God and His power even more crucial. Indeed, the call is to be holy warriors.


Not giving all to the work
The New Evangelization is a call to give our all in the proclamation of the gospel. “Cry out at the top of your voice, Jerusalem, herald of good news!” (Is 40:9b). We are to devote the fullness of our time, gifts and resources to the work.


Jesus says that the harvest is rich but the laborers are few. Many more need to step up and step forward. And those who do so need to see this mission work as of critical importance, worthy of giving their all.


Lack of pastoral care and formation
The New Evangelization is a call to care for and protect the sheep who are already in the sheepfold, as they are under attack by ravenous wolves, both without and within. “Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs, carrying them in his bosom, leading the ewes with care.” (Is 40:11). There has to be constant and ongoing formation and pastoral care.


Unfortunately, even our pastors might be going astray. Many are buying into the culture of death (such as acceptance of contraception and LGBT). Many dissent from the Church Magisterium. Many have become liberal or progressive and even modernist. Many are into political correctness, accompanying and accepting the sinner but not speaking of his sin. The scandal of homosexual sin among clerics has caused many lay Catholics to leave the Church.


Not preparing for the second coming
The New Evangelization is a preparation for the second coming of Jesus. “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord!” (Is 40:3a). Jesus will come again, “the Lord who comes, who comes to govern the earth, to govern the world with justice, and the peoples with faithfulness.” (Ps 96:13). Jesus will bring justice and judgment, and will extend eternal reward to the holy and faithful remnant.


Since we are already in the end times, the work is of the utmost urgency. But many Catholics are engaged in the goings-on of the secular world, hardly prepared for the day of judgment.



* * *



MFC CANADA COMMUNITY PRAYER 2020

MFC CANADA COMMUNITY PRAYER 2020

Almighty Father, in these dark times when evil is rampant throughout the world, you have called us, chosen us, and appointed us to rise in defense of your work. We are your missionary families, commissioned to defend faith, family and life.

Lord Jesus, you are the Rock upon which our families, our community and our Church are founded. With you as cornerstone, help us to be built as living stones into a spiritual house, holy and acceptable. Build this house to withstand the floods and winds of adversity that assault us each day.

Holy Spirit, send us forth as your holy warriors, with clarity of vision and zeal for mission. Empower us in the proclamation of the gospel of salvation in Jesus, and help us in defending our Church against the forces that seek to weaken her.

Mama Mary, teach us the way of kindness and mercy, unite us as your beloved children, and keep us in your loving embrace always.

Amen.



The 2014 CCCB Forum with National Movements and Associations

The 2014 CCCB Forum with National Movements and Associations

The 2014 CCCB Forum with National Movements and Associations was held on September 12-14, 2014 under the auspices of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), at Auberge de Basilique in St. Anne de Beaupre', Quebec. This was attended by 33 participating national movements and associations headed by lay person, nuns, priests, and bishops. CFC-FFL is represented by Bro Kit Galema (Second from right second row in the picture).

The Episcopal Standing Committee for Relations with Catholic Movements and Associations organizes such forum for assuring dialogue and links between the CCCB and the national Catholic movements and associations of Canada. The bishops of Canada have convened this forum with movements and associations from across the country in order; to enable personal contacts and sharing of faith and ideas amongst organizations, and to learn about the topic for this year's forum - "The Door to Missionary Evangelization" with a special emphasis being given to Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel).



Stand up to gay "marriage" bullies, says Australian archbishop

 AND NEW COMMUNITIES

Stand up to gay "marriage" bullies, says Australian archbishop

 AND NEW COMMUNITIES

SYDNEY, Australia, July 15, 2015 (LifeSiteNews) -- Archbishop Anthony Fisher of Sydney denounced efforts to "bully" Australians into accepting same-sex "marriage", as efforts to legalize it there ramp up in the wake of similar capitulations in the United States and Ireland.

Speaking to a packed congregation at a July 12 annual Marriage Mass, the archbishop said "powerful forces" are "determined to silence any opposition" and "bully" us all into accepting the deconstruction and redefinition of a fundamental institution."



Pope Francis vs. Gender Ideology

Pope Francis vs. Gender Ideology

August 13, 2016

In the end, reality always wins. An old saying has it that: God always forgives; man sometimes; Nature never. Robert R. Reilly

Pope Francis sits next Archbishop Stanislaw Gadecki, president of the Polish bishops conference, during a meeting with Poland's bishops at the cathedral in Krakow, Poland, July 27. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

In Krakow with the Polish bishops two weeks ago, Pope Francis declared that, "We are experiencing a moment of the annihilation of man as the image of God." He specifically included within this defacement "[the ideology of] 'gender". He was clearly outraged that, "Today children - children! - are taught in school that everyone can choose his or her sex. And this [sic] terrible! Read more..




CFC-FFL conducts Liturgical Bible Study (LBS)

CFC-FFL conducts Liturgical Bible Study (LBS)

Participants of Liturgical Bible Study Methodology Training held at the Epiphany of Our Lord Parish on March 18, 2017



The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI with members and consulters of the Pontifical Council for the Family

The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI with members and consulters of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Vatican City, February 8, 2010. Note Archbishop Soc Villegas on the right and Frank & Gerry Padilla on the left.





What's Happening?


Evangelization Rally East

January 18, 2020
Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati Catholic School
8 Seasons Drive
Scarborough, ON


Evangelization Rally

January 18, 2020
Our Lady of Fatima Shrine
3170 St. Clair Ave. East
Scarborough, ON


Community Conference

March 21, 2020
Brebeuf College School
211 Steeles Ave E,
North York, ON


WHO WE ARE, WHAT WE DO

Through all of our 29 years, we have spoken much of our vision and mission, who we are, what we are called to do. We know that we are an evangelistic and missionary community. This has been true from the very beginning and has never changed. We do our work within the context of family renewal. That is one distinct factor that distinguishes us from other renewal movements.
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