SACRED HEART OF JESUS AT MONTEMARIA TAGAYTAY PHILIPPINES

PROMISES OF THE MOTHER OF MERCY CHAPLET

2011-06-30T01:00:00.024+08:00

"For when the Heavens are closed, I open them! When the door to Heaven is locked,
I unlock it! When oppression and depression rules, it is I who will set you free,
for I am your Mother of Mercy!"

In celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary on July 2, 2011, this urgent message from Our Mother of Mercy is being posted herein courtesy of the original source from the movingheartfoundation.com

On December 13, 2004 in her apparition to Chris Courtis Our Lady said:

"My dear children, I call you to be attentive to the lessons of mercy and love. But in order to absorb the messages and live the messages of mercy and love, you must always be in the state of grace and prayer. Therefore, dear children, do I wish to teach you how to be merciful and how to call upon me as your Mother of Mercy.

For when the Heavens are closed, I open them! When the door to Heaven is locked, I unlock it! When oppression and depression rules, it is I who will set you free, for I am your Mother of Mercy! This is the most powerful of all titles because it shows to you my human nature and God’s unceasing divine love. This is how you should pray:

Begin with the Sign of the Cross, “In the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.”

Then recite one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Apostles’ Creed. However, in the Apostles’ Creed do not say, “descended into Hell”; replace that with “descended into the lower part of Purgatory”.

Beginning with the first large bead, and on each large bead of each decade say:

“Oh, Mother of God, Mother of the Word Incarnate, Mother Most Holy, pray for me.”

On the ten small beads of each decade, say:

“Oh, Mother Mary, Mediatrix of God’s Graces and Mercy, we bow before thee and ask you to pray for us. Oh, Mother of Mercy, with hope we call on thee.”

At the end of the 5th decade, on the medal, say the Hail Holy Queen,

Then on the three separate beads, (the first three of the rosary), recite :

“Mother of God, Mother of Mercy, pray for me. (x3)”

Conclude with the Sign of The Cross.

Source: (www.movingheartfoundation.com/wd4-m2-dec13.htm)

* * *
PROMISES OF PRAYING THE MOTHER OF MERCY CHAPLET

On February 13, 2005, Our Lady gave us these promises of praying the Mother of Mercy Chaplet. (www.movingheartfoundation.com/wd5-m2-feb13.htm)

1. I will give to those who pray this beautiful chaplet dedicated to me, peace.

2. I promise to give great conversions. Let this be the second gift I will give. The most important is conversions. Please understand me clearly. This chaplet has great power for converting those you pray for, and yourselves.

3. My Son and I promise to give to those who pray this chaplet, healing - physically, spiritually, mentally, and psychologically, but you must pray and firmly believe.

4. I will give great graces to those who pray to me under the Mother of Mercy Chaplet. Look at the rays that I pour forth from the palm of my hand. These are the graces I ask you to pray for and receive, which I will give you. For now, the only thing I wish to say is that these graces are all kinds of graces, and I will not be limited by one particular grace. So please, pray.

5. I promise those who pray this chaplet for the dying that I will be with them during their last moments on earth, and I myself, as Mother of Mercy will appear to them before their death and take their souls to God. Those are the five promises I wish to make and give to you through this chaplet, but there is also a sixth.

6. The sixth one is that I shall grant peace within the family if they pray together this chaplet, and number seven, the last of all:

7. I shall answer your requests, but you must be willing to receive the answer with an open heart. I will intercede to my Son Jesus under this title, and he will give to you the graces and prayer you desire, but you must understand, sometimes God’s answer is “no”. If it is “no,” then you must accept it and continue to move on. If the answer is, “no, but later on down the road,” then you must continue to persevere and believe firmly that this shall be given to you.

And then there are “yes” answers. Those who receive the gift of graces of a “yes”, of an answered prayer and it comes to pass, do not give up on praying this chaplet for your brothers or sisters, but continue to pray. I do not simply want you to pray the chaplet for your own needs, and then once you receive what you desire, to walk away from this chaplet, or from me. Continue to pray even if you receive a “no,” a “later down the line,” or a “yes” answer because I wish to be with you always. This is one way that I am able to be present to you.

On March 13, 2005, Jesus added two more promises to those who would pray the Mother of Mercy Chaplet. (www.movingheartfoundation.com/wd5-j-mar13.htm)

I come to tell you this and I come to tell you of two new promises I wish to give, Me, your Jesus of Mercy, through the Chaplet of your Mother of Mercy.

8. I wish to give purity of heart to all who pray My Mother’s chaplet.

9. I also desire to give through this chaplet, salvation for the living and the dying.

As you wear the Brown Scapular as a sign and pledge to My Mother, it is also a shield and protection against the fires of Hell. So too is My Mother’s chaplet a shield against the fiery darts of Hell. All those who pray it and believe in My mother’s title of Mother of Mercy shall receive salvation in this life and in the next.

I promise all of those who pray My Mother’s chaplet this. It is My promise, for those who pray it draw closer to My Mother’s Heart, and all those who dwell closer to My Mother’s Heart through this chaplet draw closer to My Heart. Therefore salvation is obtained through this chaplet, if you so wish it to be.

You must accept the graces that I am giving through this chaplet and through My Mother, for She is the spring of everlasting delight and grace. I desire you to pray and to believe, for through this chaplet I am giving to you purity of heart and salvation for those who believe.

I also desire you to know that the hour in which the chaplet should be prayed is at 4 o’clock. It was at 4 in the morning in which My Mother was born. It was at 4 o’clock in the evening that My body came down from the Cross and My Mother held my dead body for the first time. It was wrapped in linen and then the procession to the tomb started. She was there. It was at 4 o’clock in the evening that this happened. And it was at 4 o’clock in the evening when she died of joy, when it was time for her to die. She died of joy at 4 o’clock. The hour of her birth was also the hour of her death, only not in the morning but in the evening. Therefore at 4 o’clock is this to be prayed, every day at 4 o’clock, in honor of the mystery, joy, sorrows, and glories of My mother who is always with Me.

Those who honor Her honor Me. Those who will blaspheme Her or dare to dishonor Her with disrespect, they disrespect Me. It is through My mother, the Mother of Mercy, that she leads you to Me. Her Mercy is a Mother’s Mercy, unbound and beautiful. All who approach Her receive the gift of salvation, and all those who approach Her with faith receive the gift of love because She bears within Herself the gift of Divine Love.

Herewith is the site where one can download a printed PDF copy of the Chaplet of Our Mother Of Mercy.

movingheartfoundation.com

STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT MONTEMARIA

2011-04-20T22:55:00.021+08:00

A recent and most welcome addition to the MonteMaria Chapel are the intricately descriptive wood carvings depicting the sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ at the Fourteen Stations of the Cross as installed on both the left and right outer posts with Seven Stations on each side.

Here are each of the individual wooden interpretation of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross to reflect and meditate upon with the appropriate Prayer for each Station as provided for by Catholic.org.

FIRST STATION: JESUS IS CONDEMNED TO DEATH

Leader: We adore Thee, O Christ, and bless Thee.
All: Because by Thy Holy Cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

Jesus, you stand all alone before Pilate. Nobody speaks up for you. Nobody helps defend you. You devoted your entire life to helping others, listening to the smallest ones, caring for those who were ignored by others. They don't seem to remember that as they prepare to put you to death.

As a child, sometimes I feel alone. Sometimes I feel that others don't stand up for me and defend me when I am afraid. Sometimes I don't feel like I am treated fairly, especially if I am scolded or corrected.

As an adult, sometimes I feel abandoned and afraid as well. Sometimes I too, feel like I am treated unfairly or blamed for things unfairly. I have a hard time when people criticize me at home or at work.

Help me be grateful for what you did for me. Help me to accept criticism and unfairness as you did, and not complain. Help me pray for those who have hurt me.

My Jesus, often have I signed the death warrant by my sins; save me by Thy death from that eternal death which I have so often deserved.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory Be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on Us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

SECOND STATION: JESUS CARRIES HIS CROSS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, as you accepted your cross, you knew you would carry it to your death on Calvary. You knew it wouldn't be easy, but you accepted it and carried it just the same.

As a child, sometimes I don't like the problems that come my way. Sometimes I try to get others to take care of them or solve them for me. Sometimes I become upset and crabby when I'm asked to do even the smallest thing to help others.

As an adult I sometimes feel like I'm not appreciated. Sometimes I feel as if I accept more responsibility that I need to. I can feel sorry for myself, even though the crosses others carry are much larger than my own. In my self-pity, I don't reach out to help.

My Jesus, Who by Thine own will didst take on Thee the most heavy cross I made for Thee by my sins, oh, make me feel their heavy weight, and weep for them ever while I live.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory Be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

THIRD STATION: JESUS FALLS THE FIRST TIME

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, the cross you have been carrying is very heavy. You are becoming weak and almost ready to faint, and you fall down. Nobody seems to want to help you. The soldiers are interested in getting home, so they yell at you and try to get you up and moving again.

As a child, sometimes I start to do something, but then get tired of it. I hurry to get finished and sometimes don't do my work well. Sometimes I don't pay attention to what I should be doing. When things get hard for me, sometimes I give up.

As an adult, I sometimes put things off. I give up too easily, and sometimes don't do my work as well as I know I can.

My Jesus, the heavy burden of my sins is on Thee, and bears Thee down beneath the cross. I loathe them, I detest them; I call on Thee to pardon them; may Thy grace aid me never more to commit them.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory Be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

FOURTH STATION: JESUS MEETS HIS MOTHER

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, you feel so alone with all those people yelling and screaming at you. You don't like the words they are saying about you, and you look for a friendly face in the crowd. You see your mother. She can't make the hurting stop, but it helps to see that she is on your side, that she is suffering with you. She does understand and care.

As a child, sometimes I feel like too many things are going on. Sometimes other kids pick on me and call me names. I need to look around me for a friendly face, and for the help I need. I need to share my troubles with those who truly care about me.

As an adult I sometimes feel overwhelmed by many things. Life is so competitive, and I worry so much about my future and those who have some control over it. I need to remember that being an adult does not mean having to solve every problem all by myself. I need to look around me for a friendly face, for the help I need.

Jesus most suffering, Mary Mother most sorrowful, if, by my sins, I caused you pain and anguish in the past, by God's assisting grace it shall be so no more; rather be you my love henceforth till death.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

FIFTH STATION: SIMON OF CYRENE HELPS JESUS TO CARRY HIS CROSS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, the soldiers are becoming impatient. This is taking longer than they wanted it to. They are afraid you won't make it to the hill where you will be crucified. As you grow weaker, they grab a man out of the crowd and make him help carry your cross. He was just watching what was happening, but all of a sudden he is helping you carry your cross.

As a child, sometimes I see people who need my help. Sometimes I pretend not to hear when my parents call me. I disappear when I know others could use my help.

As an adult, sometimes I try to do as little as I can and still get by. Others might need my help, but I ignore their needs. Even when I'm asked to help, I sometimes claim to be too busy.

My Jesus, blest, thrice blest was he who aided Thee to bear the cross. Blest too shall I be if I aid Thee to bear the cross, by patiently bowing my neck to the crosses Thou shalt send me during life. My Jesus, give me grace to do so.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

SIXTH STATION: VERONICA WIPES THE FACE OF JESUS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, suddenly a woman comes out of the crowd. Her name is Veronica. You can see how she cares for you as she takes a cloth and begins to wipe the blood and sweat from your face. She can't do much, but she offers what little help she can.

As a child, sometimes I know someone could use a little help and understanding. They may be picked on or teased by others, or just sad or lonely. Sometimes I feel bad that others don't step in to help, but I don't help either.

As an adult, I notice the needs around me. Sometimes my own family members crave my attention, and I don't even seem to notice. Sometimes a co-worker, friend, or family member could use help or understanding, but I don't reach out to help lest I be criticized, or that they demand more of me than I'd like to give.

My tender Jesus, Who didst deign to print Thy sacred face upon the cloth with which Veronica wiped the sweat from off Thy brow, print in my soul deep, I pray Thee, the lasting memory of Thy bitter pains.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

SEVENTH STATION: JESUS FALLS THE SECOND TIME

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

This is the second time you have fallen on the road. As the cross grows heavier and heavier it becomes more difficult to get up. But you continue to struggle and try until you're up and walking again. You don't give up.

As a child, sometimes things get me down. Others seem to find things easier to do or to learn. Each time I fail, I find it harder to keep trying.

As an adult, sometimes I think I should know more than I do. I become impatient with myself and find it hard to believe in myself when I fail. It is easy to despair over small things, and sometimes I do.

Help me when things seem difficult for me. Even when it's hard, help me get up and keep trying as you did. Help me do my best without comparing myself with others.

My Jesus, often have I sinned and often, by sin, beaten Thee to the ground beneath the cross. Help me to use the efficacious means of grace that I may never fall again.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have Mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

EIGHT STATION: JESUS MEETS THE WOMEN OF JERUSALEM

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, as you carry your cross you see a group of women along the road. As you pass by you see they are sad. You stop to spend a moment with them, to offer them some encouragement. Although you are have been abandoned by your friends and are in pain, you stop and try to help them.

As a child, sometimes I think a lot about myself. I think about what I want and would like people to spend their lives pleasing me.

As an adult, sometimes I act like a child. I become so absorbed in myself and what I'd like that I forget about the needs of others. I take them for granted, and often ignore their needs.

Help me think more about others. Help me remembers that others have problems, too. Help me respond to them even when I'm busy or preoccupied with my own problems.

My Jesus, Who didst comfort the pious women of Jerusalem who wept to see Thee bruised and torn, comfort my soul with Thy tender pity, for in Thy pity lies my trust. May my heart ever answer Thine.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have Mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

NINTH STATION: JESUS FALLS A THIRD TIME

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, your journey has been long. You fall again, beneath your cross. You know your journey is coming to an end. You struggle and struggle. You get up and keep going.

As a child, sometimes I fail time and time again. I find it hard to get along with my sisters and brothers, sometimes I'm not honest, sometimes I'm lazy. I'm tempted to stop trying. It's just too hard sometimes.

As an adult, I often feel I should have conquered my weaknesses by now. I become discouraged when I'm confronted by the same problems over and over again. Sometimes I get weary. When I have health problems, I can become discouraged and depressed.

Help me think of the cross you carried. Help me continue to hope that I can make the changes in my life I need to. You didn't give up. I can have the strength to get up again as well.

My Jesus, by all the bitter woes Thou didst endure when for the third time the heavy cross bowed Thee to the earth, never, I beseech Thee, let me fall again into sin. Ah, my Jesus, rather let me die than ever offend Thee again.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in Peace.
All: Amen.

TENTH STATION: JESUS CLOTHES ARE TAKEN AWAY

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

The soldiers notice you have something of value. They remove your cloak and throw dice for it. Your wounds are torn open once again. Some of the people in the crowd make fun of you. They tease you and challenge you to perform a miracle for them to see. They're not aware that you'll perform the greatest miracle of all!

As a child, sometimes I'm tempted to repeat stories I know are unclean and disrespectful. I sometimes try to act grown up by using crude and bad words.

As an adult, sometimes I repeat stories that are disrespectful of others. I can entertain thoughts that are not clean. Sometimes I give the young people around me a bad example to follow.

Help me to keep myself pure and clean. Help me say things that build up the people around me. Help me overcome worldly desires that I may become more like Jesus. Help me set a good example for others to follow.

My Jesus, stripped of Thy garments and drenched with gall, strip me of love for things of earth, and make me loathe all that savors of the world and sin.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

11TH STATION: JESUS IS NAILED TO THE CROSS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

You are stretched out on the cross you have carried so far. The soldiers take big nails and drive them into your hands and feet. You feel abandoned by the people you loved so much. People seem to have gone mad. You have done nothing but good, yet they drive nails through your hands and feet.

As a child, sometimes I hurt others. Sometimes I join with friends and decide not to like another. We gang up against another and cause them hurt and pain. Sometimes I say or do hurtful things to my brothers and sisters. I can wonder what they'd think about themselves if they believed everything I told them about themselves.

As and adult, sometimes I discriminate against others. Even without thinking, I judge others because of their color, intelligence, income level or name. I forget that I am to live as a brother or sister to all people. Sometimes I use harsh words when I speak to my children and family members. I can find it easy to look for something that isn't very important and make it very important.

Help me look again at the people around me. Help me see the hurt and pain I have caused in others. Be with me to help me make amends for the harm I have done.

My Jesus, by Thine agony when the cruel nails pierced Thy tender hands and feet and fixed them to the cross, make me crucify my flesh by Christian penance.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

TWELFTH STATION: JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

As Jesus hung on the cross, he forgave the soldiers who had crucified him, and prayed for his mother and friends. Jesus wanted all of us to be able to live forever with God, so he gave all he had for us.

Jesus, let me take a few moments now to consider your love for me. Help me thank you for your willingness to go to your death for me. Help me express my love for you!

My Jesus, three hours didst Thou hang in agony, and then die for me; let me die before I sin, and if I live, live for Thy love and faithful service.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

THIRTEENTH STATION: THE BODY OF JESUS IS TAKEN
DOWN FROM THE CROSS

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, how brutally you were put to death. How gently your are taken from the cross. Your suffering and pain are ended, and you are put in the lap of your mother. The dirt and blood are wiped away. You are treated with love.

As a child, sometimes I treat others better when they're sad or in pain. When somebody dies, I become very gentle and kind. I notice the good and kind things people say about those who have died.

As an adult, I seem to be kinder when someone dies. If only I could learn to see the good things about them while they were alive. If only I would tell those around me how much I love them, while I still have the opportunity to do so.

Help me look for the good in those around me, especially those I love the most. Help me live this day as if it were the last. Help me become a more gentle and loving person through my greater appreciation for those around me.

O Mary, Mother most sorrowful, the sword of grief pierced thy soul when thou didst see Jesus lying lifeless on thy bosom; obtain for me hatred of sin because sin slew thy Son and wounded thine own heart, and grace to live a Christian life and save my soul.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: Have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

FOURTEENTH STATION: JESUS IS LAID ON THE TOMB

Leader: We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
All: Because by your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Jesus, your body is prepared for burial. Joseph gave you his own tomb. He laid your body there and rolled a large stone in front of it, then went home. What a sad day it has been for so many people.

As a child, sometimes I try to keep everything for myself. I find it hard to share my things with my brothers or sisters and with my friends.

As an adult, I can be selfish too. I can accumulate things and keep them for myself. I try to make sure I have what I want before I share what I have with anybody else.

Help me think of Joseph of Arimathea, who risked his own life as he accepted Jesus' body for burial. Help me think of how Joseph loved Jesus so much that he gave him his own tomb.

My Jesus, beside Thy body in the tomb I, too, would lie dead; but if I live, let it be for Thee, so as one day to enjoy with Thee in heaven the fruits of Thy passion and Thy bitter death.

Our Father.... Hail Mary.... Glory be to the Father....

Leader: Jesus Christ Crucified.
All: have mercy on us.

Leader: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace.
All: Amen.

MIRACULOUS HEALING CROSS OF JESUS AT MONTEMARIA TAGAYTAY

2010-11-25T21:29:00.023+08:00

During my initial visit to MonteMaria Tagaytay, I was busy taking pictures of the Altar and its surroundings. What really caught my attention was the majestic lifelike Cross that hung as the centerpiece with its borders lighted all around the edges.

I went to it right at the center to as close as I can and started taking pictures of this beautiful Cross. Afterwards, I scrutinized the fine details of it craftsmanship and construction. But as I gazed my eyes on the face of Jesus, the Image that I perceived was that of a real face of Jesus as He was agonizing on the Cross.

I suddenly felt saddened as I understood clearly the sufferings He bore for our sins as His face seemed to be in deep agonizing pain. It was then that I realized how much pain He had to endure for sins that were not even of His own doing and yet He never complained of His suffering as He was lying there bearing it all for our Salvation. I knew that this Cross was truly magnificent since I felt its Divine Presence just by being near it and staring at it intently. It was truly a moving experience I have never felt before.

The huge majestic Cross that is the centerpiece of the Altar of the new Chapel in MonteMaria is not only magnificent but truly miraculous. From its humble origins in a storage room in Manila and how it made its way to MonteMaria Tagaytay is in itself an example of how Divine Destiny intertwines with the work of the humble healer Fr. Fernando Suarez.

These are the pictures I have taken of that Divine Healing Cross of Jesus at MonteMaria Tagaytay and the story that follows is an excerpt from the Newsletter Issue No. 5 of the Mother Mary of the Poor Foundation.

It happened during a rest break while celebrating a healing Mass at Our Lady of Mercy in Novaliches, Manila on Oct. 8, 2009. After praying over thousands of people, Fr. Fernando passed by a dark storage room in the parish on his way to the rectory.

While going by, he heard a voice calling him to go inside. As he stumbled feeling his way around, he placed his hand on a large crucifix lying down on a table. He heard once again the Lord say, “Take me with you”.

Shocked and overwhelmed by this experience, he went to the pastor to tell him the story. Fr. Monty Viloria replied back, “I have been praying about what to do with this crucifix and to whom I shall give it. It is for you . . . thank you, as you're an answer to my prayer!”

The new home became MonteMaria and when we opened on March 13, 2010, there was Jesus on the cross, behind the altar, so alive and so beautiful, calling everyone to come and find rest in His heart.

In July, 2010, one woman came to Fr. Fernando to pray for a restoration of her hearing. After no success, Fr. Fernando pointed her to the crucifix to ask Jesus himself. Many times at his healing Masses, Fr. Fernando would always reiterate, that he is merely an instrument and that Jesus is the Divine Healer who actually heals.

After praying some time at the foot of the cross, she saw light radiate from the eyes of Jesus and penetrate into her eyes. As the brightness hit her, something popped out of her ears and she was able to hear again! She immediately gave a testimonial of her healing to the people in attendance.

After the Mass, the line-ups begin, and people one by one make their way to touch and pray at the feet of Jesus and seek healing. Jesus does not disappoint them and comes to them, consoles them, and tells them not to worry and that He is with them in their suffering. May we all find our strength at the foot of the Miraculous Cross!

MONTEMARIA TAGAYTAY: THE MIRACLES OF DIVINE HEALING CONTINUE

2010-11-10T23:49:00.040+08:00

In search of the relocation site of MonteMaria, one rainy November 10 afternoon we decided to drive to Tagaytay to seek out the new healing sanctuary of the humble healer Father Fernando Suarez.

The newly relocated MonteMaria Tagaytay is situated in Barangay Amuyong in Alfonso Cavite, a few kilometers past the Tagaytay-Cavite boundary. It is part of a vast 125 hectares property owned by San Miguel Corporation which used to be a fully equipped cattle dairy farm for the procurement and processing of Magnolia Fresh Milk products.

Mr. Eduardo Cojuangco Jr. or Danding as he is fondly called by his friends willingly donated the entire property for the exclusive use of Father Fernando for his MonteMaria project. As explained by Fr. Suarez, he only accepted 33 hectares from it since it was more than sufficient for MonteMaria's purposes. True to his sincere act of donation, Mr. Danding Conjuangco handed over the Deed of Donation to Fr. Suarez in May, 2010 without any existing pre-conditions.

A document attesting to the ownership of the land is the most basic requirement for pursuing a gargantuan project such as MonteMaria. The relocated site required a new design revision which was better organized since there was more provision for expansion. The efficient utilization of space is evident in the distribution of functional structures to be erected in a vast expanse of green natural habitat. The naturally cool weather makes it a conducive place of comfortable worship for pilgrims seeking to commune and connect with God.

The convenient location of MonteMaria in Alfonso Cavite makes it very accessible to those seeking miraculous intervention and can easily be reached by vehicular transportation since the roads going to it are well constructed and maintained. Likewise, the regular presence of Fr. Suarez here in this new location is more assured due to the proximity of his hometown in Butong Taal which is just an half hour drive from Alfonso.

The temporary chapel is covered with a sturdy prefabricated metal roofing and is built on a sprawling spacious area with an enormous seating capacity for about four thousand attendants. Usual attendees on weekend Masses normally exceed five thousand visitors.

Its centerpiece is an altar with a magnificently lighted cross with a life-like Image of an agonizing Jesus hanging on the Cross as a reminder to us of the sufferings He endured for our sins. If you happen to visit MonteMaria on a less crowded day, consider coming close to the Cross and look up to see His very detailed face and you will understand what I mean.

The one thing that remains the same in MonteMaria wherever it is situated are the continuous stories of numerous miraculous healings; which attest to the Maternal Intercession of the Blessed Mother Mary as a testament of Her commitment of love to all who seek God's intervention.

One such story is that of Joel Gloriani, a 42-year old security watchman of Golden Beret Security who has been on security detail in this property for six years now. The security agency and his companions were turned over to the group of Fr. Suarez and are now tasked with securing the entire premises of the donated area of the proposed Oratory.

On May 13 Thursday, as he was on his way to work to MonteMaria, his motorcycle skidded on the slippery road which caused him to fall down. He landed on the concrete pavement with his left side part of the body as his face violently slammed to the ground.

As he made an effort to get up from the accident, he felt his face numb and was experiencing excruciating pain. He also sustained chest pains and had extreme difficulty breathing. He knew that he had some cracked bones within his chest and had to take antibiotics and pain killers during the night just to get through his ordeal.

Realizing he was in bad shape, he was considering to go to a manghihilot (reflexologist) the next day to undergo a healing session. But his co-workers advised him to just seek his physical restoration in a Mass on May 15 Saturday celebrated by Fr. Suarez. It was a usual practice for Fr. Suarez to gather his coordinators, assistants and security personnel to line up for healing sessions after the healing Mass.

As he was being prayed over by Fr. Suarez, Joel closed his eyes and prayed fervently for healing from Jesus, and in an instant received his miraculous healing. The excruciating pain in his face and chest had immediately disappeared and his breathing was fully restored to normal condition. There are no visible marks of bruises on his face and the only souvenir he has of the accident are the damaged lights and slight dents sustained by his motorcyle on the left side part. He knew he was healed by God but he had kept it a secret from Fr. Suarez.

I met Joel as he sat on his motorcycle on my way out from the Adoration Chapel located at the left side portion of the Altar and in the course of our conversation, he recounted his miraculous healing experience to me. When I asked him, why he didn't inform Fr. Suarez of his miracle, I suddenly realized that he was destined at the appointed time to recount it to me so that I may write of it here as his testimony to tell everyone who is now reading this; that God the Divine Healer is truly present in MonteMaria and that the faithful servant Fr. Fernando Suarez is His appointed healer.

His personal miraculous healing is a testimony of God's equal love for His people. The kindness of God is equally granted to all who seek and ask of Him and is not limited to one's stature in life. He relates that Fr. Suarez himself remains a simple and humble priest despite his healing gift from God. He himself has witnessed how Fr. Suarez treats everyone with respect equally, rich and poor alike. He is very approachable, ready and willing to help, and most of all charitable to the poor.

To date Fr. Suarez has already adopted so many poor children and he sustains their daily necessities and provides for their education from the income of his foundation. As a matter of fact, the proceeds earned from the food station located at the rear portion of the temporary chapel are primarily used for the Mother Mary of the Poor Foundation's purposes; for the upliftment of the lives of underprivileged youth, a cause which is very close to his heart.

The life of an appointed healer such as that of Fr. Suarez is a difficult task to comply with. Aside from an unwavering dedication, persistence to one's goals and endurance to sacrifice are daily requirements and the denial of one's personal comforts over and above the welfare of others entails a personal commitment to serve both God and neighbor.

The unexpected relocation of MonteMaria from Batangas to Tagaytay is a major test of spiritual wills and personal commitment that the appointed healer servant of the Blessed Mother has successfully hurdled in one of the many challenging obstacles he continues to encounter. We all pray for the continued success of Fr. Suarez and his congregation.

Edwin L. Yap
Makati City, Philippines

DECLARATION OF MONTEMARIA TRANSFER TO TAGAYTAY CITY

2010-03-13T13:04:00.011+08:00

Blessed Mary Mother of the Poor, Inc.

D E C L A R A T I O N

February 16, 2010

Fr. Fernando Suarez has a very special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary since his youth. This devotion inspired him to form the Foundation of Mary Mother of the Poor. Besides his Ministry for the Poor, he also has a vision to build a Shrine for the Blessed Virgin Mary. Four years ago he decided to make the Philippines his home base so that he can share his gift of healing and minister to the needs of the poor. He met Congressman Hermilando "Dodo" Mandanas, who offered to donate a 5 hectare parcel of land in Batangas City. Fr. Fernando was awed by the beauty of the place in the mountains of Pagkilatan, Batangas City called Matuco Point. He conceived a plan to build a tall Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is now called MonteMaria. In December 2006, this plan was presented to Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles of the Archdiocese of Lipa. The blessing and inauguration of the location was held on Jan. 7, 2007. Donations and pledges for the building of the Shrine started to come in from around the world.

Noted master planners, architects and engineers volunteered and were commissioned to finalize the plans for the Shrine of Mary Mother of the Poor. Meanwhile, temporary structures were built to facilitate Holy Masses and vigils. In the last three years, much work has been done in completing the development plans and preparing the site for construction. On January 18, 2010 the Sto. Nino chapel, donated by the family of Andrew and Elvie Garcia, was blessed by His Excellency Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles.

Despite its remote location and difficulty of transportation, thousands of sick and poor devotees went up the mountain to participate in communal prayers and religious observances. As the increasing numbers of the faithful pour into MonteMaria, the master planners realize the need of a bigger area to accommodate the increasing demand for space. Thus Fr. Fernando requested the donor Cong. Mandanas to donate or sell more land for the requirements of the Shrine. The option for an additional lot for donation was not available, while the purchase of additional land was under negotiation. In November 2009, however, the discussion for the purchase of additional land failed. As well the promised 5 hectares donation has not been delivered to the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation.

In December 2009, the donor changed his donation and included some conditions. This led to a meeting with the Archbishop of Lipa, the donors, and Fr. Fernando together with the board members of Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation on Feb. 1, 2010. The following points were presented:

*The 5 hectares will now be donated to the Archdiocese of Lipa instead of the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation;

*The 33 storey statue of the Blessed Virgin must now be built on the donated property as a condition for the donation to be consummated;

*The Archbishop of Lipa mentioned that he will only accept the donation if Fr. Fernando and the Foundation promised to build the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary;

*Fr. Fernando was unable to accept this condition as the major donors and the Board of Directors of the MonteMaria project had decided to pull out of building in the area due to the perceived greed and commercialization of the land around the intended Shrine.

While all these events were occurring in MonteMaria, an incredible gift of land 20 times bigger in the vicinity of Tagaytay City was being offered to Fr. Fernando. In light of these circumstances, after intensive prayers and due consultation with the donors and Fr. Francis Donnelly the local superior of the Companions of the Cross, the Board of Directors unanimously decided to relocate the Shrine to this more accessible place.

Here public transportation is readily available and affordable; resources such as seminaries and religious houses for provision of priestly ministries abound; and accommodations for pilgrims are already abundant. The entire proposed project is welcomed by the local Bishop of the Diocese of Imus, Most Reverend Luis Antonio Tagle with great enthusiasm. The Foundation has practically finalized the transfer of the property with the donor. With God’s providence and the protection of Mother Mary, we expect to begin our ministries at this new site by March 13, 2010. Meanwhile, all directed donations for the Shrine are currently intact and will continue to be handled with the greatest transparency and accountability.

There is much pain in this decision, MonteMaria having been our beacon and common aspiration for the last three years. However, the preferential will of God seems clear, and we must allow the Holy Spirit to lead. We have all been blessed in this journey, the Archdiocese of Lipa, led by His Excellency, Archbishop Ramon Arguelles, has extended to us every assistance and support; to them our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. We thank our donors for their generous offer and efforts in favor of MonteMaria. We also thank the government of Batangas City for their support and assistance in initiating the first construction. Our gratitude also extends to the leaders and the people of Brgy. Pagkilatan who welcomed us with open arms.

Many thanks also to all our supporters and volunteers. Together let us persevere to make the Project for Mama Mary a reality.

The actual declaration from Father Fernando can be accessed here.

TESTIMONY TO SIGHTINGS OVER MONTEMARIA: GOD'S AWESOME SIGNS AND WONDERS

2010-02-14T10:44:00.002+08:00

"THE LORD DISPLAYED BEFORE OUR EYES, GREAT
AND AWESOME SIGHTS AND WONDERS!"

Remy and Reynaldo Atienza along with their daughters Madie and Mariel live in the town of Puerto Galera on the isle of Mindoro. From their home they can see MonteMaria which lies 15 kilometers across the Verde Strait. Their experiences with both Fr. Fernando and MonteMaria have profoundly transformed their lives.

Here below is a transcript of their interview taken on July 4, 2009.

Remy speaking: The first time we saw the lights happened on June 5, 2009 at 12:30 PM. I was in my house looking over to MonteMaria. I saw a bright light and immediately called my husband asking him to bring his telescope. Through the telescope I saw a large circular light and lots of stars as if they were dancing. They were white and silver in color and so bright that it hurt my eyes looking directly at them.

The next morning on Saturday, I once again looked towards MonteMaria to see where the light was coming from. I saw Mary’s crown with 12 stars! It is the same image as the statue you see here yet this wasn’t here at the time. I believe that this is a sign from God to my family to accept and believe in MonteMaria as a place of holiness.

On Friday, June 12, 2009 my husband Reynaldo was the first to see the lights. After seeing them, he asked Madie and Mariel to have a look. They confirmed that it was the same light. Madie then interjected by explaining, “At first when my Dad told me I didn’t believe but when I took a look, I saw an image of Mary’s crown.”

Then last Wednesday, July 1 at 11:30 PM, I saw the same light and image for a third time. They were bright lights, red, blue and white in color. Today after Mass, I asked the security guard here in MonteMaria if there were any visitors or an event on Wednesday night and he said, “No.”

“How have these events changed your life?”

Remy replied sobbing . . MonteMaria is a beautiful place. I remember a recent homily Father Fernando gave. He spoke of how many Filipino’s believe in creatures, magic and quack doctors who promise everything only to get themselves rich. We were victims of this. We went to quack doctors who charged fees in the belief we would be healed. Now we know that only God truly heals!

To the above question Madie added: My father never went to church and he used to be a gambler. He was a diabetic for five years taking medication. Now he no longer takes anything and just exercises.

In the past, we could not take him anywhere because he was always irritable and angry. Now he babysits the grandchildren. My Mom, sister and I always went alone. Now it is he who leads us here rain or shine and who insists that we not miss a single weekend Mass. He has completely changed.

This all started after Fr. Fernando prayed over him at a Mass in Calapan City, Mindoro on January 31, 2009. As a family we have nothing more to ask God because the blessings He has given us are overflowing. Salamat! The only thing we can say is thanks.

TOM PRUGO
Toronto, Canada

PRAYER FOR HEALING AND REBIRTH BY SISTER RAQUEL REODICA, RVM

2010-01-12T11:13:00.011+08:00

REFLECTIONS ON HEALING

by Sister Raquel Reodica, RVM

During the few years of my ministry as an instrument of Jesus for healing, I began to realize that, aside from physical poisons and genetic defects that cause diseases and physical and mental discomforts, there are also social and psychological poisons in our own homes and in society that pre-dispose us to illnesses by creating certain attitudes and feelings within us.

Heart disease, suicide, mental illness, or cancer can be correlated to psychological factors.We can even be disposed to accidents psychologically. Almost all, if not all sicknesses and bodily discomforts have psychological antecedents.

LIFE PATTERNS and ATTITUDES can predispose us to various types of diseases. Some doctors I have met say many of them are now beginning to regard the emotional realities in the lives of their patients. They begin to look beyond the question of chemical poisons and consider the possibility of PSYCHOLOGICAL POISONS.

To go against lifelong emotional habits can be extremely difficult for most people. This is an advice that we have to give to the sick:

RELAX AND CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE
BE MORE GENTLE TO YOURSELF AND TO OTHERS
LEARN TO LOVE DEEPLY

PREPARATIONS FOR HEALING

First of all, understand that healing is between you and the Lord. Sister Raquel, holy water, blessed towels, or any other medium are just tools of the Lord for healing you. They do not heal by themselves but are ‘bridges’ of the Lord to you. Sister Raquel does not have the power to heal, only the Lord through her.

Without spiritual preparation and spiritual transformation, there can be no healing. Healing cannot happen in a snap or a simple pray-over. It is not like turning a switch off and on. It involves a spiritual process. The person to be healed must undergo a SPIRITUAL CLEANSING prior to healing.

Spiritual healing precedes physical healing. Return first to the Lord and submit to Him your entire being so He can heal you. People who were healed by Sister Raquel all speak about the change in their lives, the loss of impatience and sudden anger, the goodwill for people, and most especially the consequent inner peace derived from this spiritual transformation or cleansing.

HERE ARE SIMPLE GUIDELINES FROM SISTER RAQUEL:

Pray and meditate often
Talk to Jesus in a casual conversation
He is beside you more than you know

Pause for a moment and think of your past sins
whom did you hurt or exploit or maltreat
a housemaid, a friend, a spouse, your children?
Whom can you not forgive for things they did to you?

Without forgiveness it is hard to be healed
even with all the prayers and healing visits you make
Ask for forgiveness for injustice and hurt you have done to others
and forgive others who have hurt you no matter how serious
resolve to correct your sinful ways

Resolve not to be cranky or impatient with people
especially small people such as maids, drivers, workers
Help and give to others according to your capacity especially the poor
Do not just give money or material items
Give yourself, your goodwill, and your time no matter how busy you are

Only then can you ask the Lord to heal you
when you are spiritually clean
Once you are pleasing to the Lord
your healing is already in process
As soon as you begin to pray and ask Him for healing
Invoke the intercession of Mother Mary, St. Joseph, and Mother Ignacia

PRAYER FOR HEALING AND REBIRTH
by Sister Raquel Reodica, RVM

At 8:00 a.m. every morning, find a quiet place. Attune your spirit to Jesus through His Blessed Mother Mary. Read slowly with your heart this prayer. Express silently your deep desire for complete healing. This is your one-on-one prayer with Jesus.

Our Father in heaven, Creator of my body, wherein I (state your name) dwell and through which I live, make me realize in the name of JESUS that my present bodily ailment is a result of my own sins, my wrong doings, my wrong thinking, my transgressions against Your laws.

I ask forgiveness, Jesus, for these wrong doings, and promise to change my ways. Make me realize, in the name of JESUS, that Your creative power, which fashioned my body, is still in me, in my consciousness, in my mind, ready to serve me at any time of need. Make me realize that I, in my free will, now have control over this creative power within me which I can direct to act for my own well being, but only if my thoughts and feelings are attuned to You. In full realization of this, I NOW CALL UPON YOUR CREATIVE POWER within me, O Lord God, in Jesus' name, to correct and eliminate any and all my bodily imperfections and diseases and discomforts.

I KNOW AND EXPECT THAT MY REBIRTH IS NOW ACTIVELY TAKING PLACE WITHIN ME because of Your creative love and mercy, and Your healing grace in my every cell and nerve and gland and tissue and fiber and organ, especially my: (state any or all sicknesses).

In accordance with my vision and my active FAITH IN YOU, MY ALMIGHTY GOD, CREATOR AND LORD, IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST, THE SON OF MOTHER MARY, through the intercessions of MOTHER IGNACIA DEL ESPIRITU SANTO and all Your saints, I am healed.

AMEN. AMEN. AMEN.

After praying, remain in silence for 15 to 20 minutes in the presence of the Lord, and in meditation of receiving His healing.

MOTHER IGNACIA HEALING CENTER
857 Bagumbong Road, Novaliches,
Caloocan City, Metro-Manila, Philippines

HEALING SCHEDULE:

Healing schedule is every Wednesday and Saturday, whole day, unless canceled for special reasons such as out-of-town trips, or unless changed at a later time (see ‘Further inquiries’ below). NO APPOINTMENTS ARE NECESSARY. NO APPOINTMENTS ARE ALLOWED for other days.

If you come on non-healing days, even if you come from Zamboanga City, you may not be attended to. Please understand that healers also need privacy and rest to regain healing energy. Please read the portion on healing guidelines.

Come as early as you want to register for one-on-one healing, first come first served. Healing session begins at about 9:30 am but you can register earlier. Bring towels and extra clothes if you want the option to join the healing bath, which may or may not be given. You can bring your own food, although there are modest canteen facilities inside and outside the healing center compound.

For people who come from distant places, there are modest accommodations but they may be easily filled up. Inquire and make reservations when you visit or by email.

FURTHER INQUIRIES:

For changing schedules due to special circumstances, inquire further
by e-mail: eastwind@edsamail.com.ph (c/o author Bernie Lopez)
If this email address is changed in the future or if your email bounces,
use the backup email address eastwind_777@yahoo.com

By Cellphones:
Globe cellphones – text ‘JESUSHEALS’ to 2355
Smart cellphones – text ‘mytxt(space)JESUSHEALS’ to 211

As mentioned above, you can also get a free subscription of foodforthesoul by email request. foodforthesoul gives weekly short keyboard prayer-poems and a meditation poster sent by email to thousands of subscribers, most of whom have visited Sister Raquel for healing. It also accommodates prayer requests which are sent to hundreds of prayer warriors.

The following are excerpts from the e-book in PDF format titled Healing Stories of Sister Raquel authored by Bernardo V. Lopez and is available for free download and distribution from this site.

You are welcome to download and distribute this healing e-book freely among family and friends. For more detailed information on Sister Raquel's Healing Ministry, please visit their website at http://sisterraquel.com.

SINGING WITH MARY OUR GRATITUDE TO GOD

2009-12-22T00:48:00.004+08:00

THE VISITATION

Mary’s reaction to Elizabeth’s greeting and high praises was an explosion of unrestrainable joy and gratitude to the Lord. In the exuberance of her teens, she expressed in vibrant words the deep feeling that had been bubbling in her heart since the moment she had received God’s message through the archangel Gabriel.

Humble to the marrow, Mary knew and proclaimed that all she had and was were gifts from the Most High. Joyfully grateful in her humility, she thanked her Lord and Savior for the “great things” that He had done for her, with expressions that reveal the features of the God in whom she believes. She magnifies the God who is merciful toward those who revere Him, lifts up the lowly, and fills the hungry with good things.

The God of Mary is a strong and just God. He is not intimidated by the arrogant, the rich, the powerful, or the famous. He has no time for them, but He calls them to account for the sufferings they inflict on all those who are weak and defenseless.

Such is the God of Mary. Such is the God who will be portrayed by her Son Jesus in the “Beatitudes” and throughout his life.

Mary had very good reasons to be so full of admiration, praises, and gratitude for God. He preserved her from the devastation of original sin; He has chosen her to be the Virgin Mother of His only eternal Son. God has, indeed, done for this daughter of Israel, greater wonders than He has done for any other human creature, save Her own Son. No wonder all generations will call Her “Blessed.”

And what about us? We definitely have not been conceived and born without original sin. But the Lord has done great things for us, too: our very existence, our intelligence and our memory, our affectivity and especially the call to live for ever in communion with our Creator, Redeemer and Friend; the gifts of faith, hope and charity; the gifts of the Church, Revelation and the Sacraments; the gifts of solidarity, friendship and pure joy.

These are the gifts we share with Mary Most Holy. Rather than focusing on the few that she alone has received, we should focus on the thousands we share with her. The list could be almost endless. Noble hearts know how to count them and be grateful for them.

This will spontaneously bring us to make our own Mary’s hymn of thanksgiving – the one we call “Magnificat.” The only thing we could leave out is the sentence, “From this day all generations will call me blessed.” This seems to fit only her.

On second thought, however, even this sentence can be retained, if we do our best to faithfully live the Gospel given us by Jesus. Those who have done so will be “Blessed” by the Divine King Himself as He will invite them to take possession of the Kingdom prepared for them by God’s love since the foundation of the world. (See Mt 25:34.)

JESS P. BALON

ELIZABETH, THE FIRST OF MARY'S DEVOTEES

2009-12-21T00:20:00.002+08:00

"BLESSED ARE YOU BECAUSE YOU BELIEVED THAT WHAT
WAS SPOKEN TO YOU BY THE LORD WOULD BE FULFILLED!"

Mary’s visit to Elizabeth was quite a pleasant surprise for the elderly lady who had “barricaded” herself within her house from the moment she had discovered that she had gotten pregnant in her old age. That was her second pleasant surprise in six months. (The first, of course, had been her discovery that she was expecting a child, despite her being beyond the normal age of childbearing, and especially because she had been barren all her life.)

But Elizabeth’s greatest surprise came from learning that her young relative had been chosen by God to be the mother of the promised Messiah. Probably, like just about everybody else, Elizabeth was convinced that the Messiah would be born of some queen and in a royal palace, while Mary was a simple, poor village girl who lived in a despised corner of Northern Palestine.

But rather than lead to doubt or deny the fact that Mary had indeed received such a sublime privilege and mission, Mary’s “Good News” brought Elizabeth to greet her young cousin with the enthusiastic acclaim: “You are the most blessed of all women, and blessed is the Child that you bear in your womb!” That was not a simple human conclusion. It was the Holy Spirit who had enabled Elizabeth to realize the loftiness of the dignity which such motherhood bestowed on Mary.

In her humility, the elderly lady just could not understand how the Mother of the Messiah had deigned to honor her with her visit. But that was beside the point, for she knew full well, by now, that the Lord’s ways are inscrutable. What mattered was Mary. And for her, Elizabeth had still another compliment: “Blessed are you because you believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled!”

These few sentences, uttered by Elizabeth under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, make of her the first and most enthusiastic of Mary’s devotees. Her words were not an empty compliment but the humble and God-inspired acknowledgment of Mary’s dignity and worth.

Those who claim to believe that the Bible is the word of God should take the episode of the Visitation very seriously. Unfortunately, most of them fail to do so. They actually systematically ignore this episode as if it were one of the many “apocrypha” which are the fruit of popular exaggeration.

Clearly, these poor brothers and sisters are blinded by prejudice against Mary Most Holy, the Mother of the Lord. This is a very serious handicap. We should pray that the same Holy Spirit who inspired Elizabeth may also work on them and bring them to repeat with love what old Elizabeth proclaimed with joyful admiration, and which the Church has been praying for the past two thousand years.

JESS P. BALON

MOTHER MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE: GRANT US YOUR PEACE

2009-01-01T00:07:00.001+08:00

MOTHER MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE
JESUS CHRIST, PRINCE OF PEACE

A Happy and Peaceful New Year to one and all! There is no better wish we can exchange on this day, for we need peace in our hearts, our families our nation, and throughout the world. So many resources are misused or squandered. So many lives are destroyed by hatred and war.

But we are aware that real and lasting peace can come only if people obey God's law and if God blesses their efforts. And we know that He is ready to grant us this most precious gift at the intercession of our Blessed Mother, whom we honor today as "Mother of God". May She, as our Mother and Queen of Peace bring the warring factions and nations to lay aside all hatred and start working together to build a civilization of love, justice and peace.

The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard this were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds.

And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.

When eight days were completed for His circumcision, the baby was named Jesus, the name given Him by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

Peace is a tree of many diverse leaves, flowers, and fruits. It strikes its roots in the hearts of people and grows through the moisture of deep personal convictions, commitment, and perseverance in the face of opposition and obstacles of every sort. Peace is brightened and strengthened by the sunshine of a sincere and universal love that refuses to bow to the destructiveness of hatred and vengefulness.

Peace is the aspiration of all those who have not been perverted by the devil, the wrecker of all peace. It is promoted by its great champions, but it cannot succeed without the cooperation of millions, and ultimately the whole of humankind.

Peace is a fragile fruit. It is easily damaged and even destroyed by envy, selfishness, pride, lust, aggressiveness, insensitivity, and cruelty. Peace is destroyed by sin whenever man turns against God or lifts his hand against his brethren. God grieves immensely when He sees us, human beings, undermine and destroy our own peace.

From the beginning, peace has been God’s dream and plan for the human family. His Kingdom is a Kingdom of peace. The greatest sign of God’s “peace initiative” is the incarnation of His own Son, the Eternal Word. He came as the Man of Peace – peace between God and us; peace among all humans. When He was born, the angels wished peace to all men of goodwill. Before He left this world, His greeting was: “Peace!”

Jesus came to our war-torn world through a woman – Mary – who is the Queen of Peace. She spent her earthly days in peace-filled communion with her Son. And from that intimacy, she derived the moral strength that she needed to be always available to cooperate with God, attentive to the needs of her neighbor.

The duty to promote peace is the legacy of Jesus and His Mother to all those who proclaim to believe in God, and especially of those who profess to be Disciples of Christ, the Prince of Peace. We are all called to promote peace by doing the “works of peace” – attitudes and actions that bring out the best in people; console the afflicted, welcome the strangers, protect the oppressed; uphold what is right and promote justice and education as basic conditions for peace to be genuine and lasting.

Sometimes there may even arise the need to defend peace against those who are trying to destroy it. It is the challenging enterprise of doing so by peaceful means that reject violence in principle and in practice.

The shining examples of Jesus Himself, Francis of Assisi, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Teresa of Calcutta, and John Paul II should be our greatest encouragement. God’s grace will empower us to do what our weakness would be unable to accomplish.

Jess P. Balon
Euchalette, 1 January 2009
WORD AND LIFE PUBLICATIONS
MCPO Box 1820, Makati City 1258, Philippines

A PRAYER TRIBUTE TO MARY

2008-10-24T23:37:00.010+08:00

A PRAYER TRIBUTE TO MARY
Cecilia G. Valmonte

All hail, Blessed Virgin Most Serene!
Hail, Blessed Lady and Virgin Queen!
Our Star of Hope and beacon a-shining
Most loving Mother, Queen of Heaven!

All hail to you, O Virgin and Mother!
Our thanks to you, our great intercessor,
Most obedient daughter of the Father,
Most loving Mother of our Savior!

In you are blended in perfect harmony
The beauty of your unstained virginity
And the splendor of the glorious dignity
Of your blessed queenship for all eternity.

The radiant smile on your youthful face
Reflects the glow of your soul most chaste
As your loving care so full of praise
Offers us comfort in your warm embrace.

We praise and thank you, dearest Mother,
For bringing us Jesus, our sole Redeemer.
We love and honor you, friend and exemplar,
And hope to be be with you in life hereafter.

O Queen of Prophets, Queen of Patriarchs,
O Queen of Virgins, Queen of all Saints . . .
We gladly welcome you to our loving hearts
Where Jesus, your Son, forever reigns!

FR. FERNANDO SUAREZ: HEALING POWER OF GOD'S LOVE

2008-09-17T23:52:00.008+08:00

THE HEALING POWER OF GOD'S LOVE

Lord I come to You
Let myself be changed, renewed
Flowing from the grace
That I’ve found in You

Lord I’ve come to know
The illnesses I have in me
Will be stripped away
By the Power of Your Love

Hold me close
Let Your Love restore me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side

And as I wait
I’ll rise up like the eagle
And I will heal with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the Power of Your Love

Lord unveil my eyes
Let me see You face to face
The knowledge of Your Love
As You strengthen me

Lord renew my soul
As Your Will unfolds in my life
In healing every day
By the Power of Your Love

Hold me close
Let Your Love restore me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side

And as I wait
I'll rise up like the eagle
And I will heal with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In The Power of Your Love

And I will heal with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the Power of Your Love

Adaptation from the original lyrics of The Power of Your Love
To select song, go to playlist media player at bottom page bar

February 1, 2008
Healing Mass of Fr. Fernando Suarez
Mary Mother of Good Council Parish
Marcelo Green Village,
Paranaque City, Philippines

SACRED HEART OF JESUS MONTEMARIA SHRINE
2008 All Rights Reserved

MONTEMARIA SHRINE: PROTOTYPE 3D VIDEO PRESENTATION

2008-09-14T09:59:00.025+08:00

Here is a prototype 3D video presentation of the MonteMaria Shrine Project that will be built on top of highest scenic mountainsite situated in Matuco Point, southwestern tip of Batangas City. This monumental project is under the direct supervision of Architect Nestor S. Mangio and Associates.

POWER OF THE ROSARY: MOTHER MARY'S FIFTEEN PROMISES

2008-08-21T01:01:00.006+08:00

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ROSARY

Around the year 1203, Dominic was sent by Pope Innocent III to South France to preach to the Albigenses. At the time, the Albigensian doctrine was based on a dualism of two eternally opposing principles, good and evil, all matter being regarded as evil and the creator of the material world as a devil.

St. Dominic discovered that this doctrine was fast becoming widespread due to the fact that the Albigenses were well educated and well organized. To combat the unorthodox teachings of the Albigensians, Dominic organized and educated his preachers so they would be better equipped to overcome this Albigensian heresy. Dominic stressed the importance of education, and his preachers traveled throughout Europe and educated common people and religious leaders as a way to challenge the heresy.

It was during Dominic's fight against this heresy when tradition tells how this Saint received the Rosary from the Virgin Mary in a vision. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary told him to "Pray my Psalter and teach it to your people. That prayer will never fail". Dominic was told that if he did as instructed, the heresy would be dispelled from France. Eventually after widespread teachings on the Rosary and the meditations of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, the heresy was defeated and the Church was strengthened.

St. Dominic is widely associated with the origin and creation of the Rosary because he was the first to implement the widespread teaching of this Sacred Devotion.

THE FIFTEEN PROMISES OF MARY
TO CHRISTIANS WHO PRAY THE ROSARY

1. Whoever shall faithfully serve Me by the recitation of the Rosary, shall receive signal graces.

2. I promise My special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the Rosary.

3. The Rosary shall be a powerful armour against hell, it will destroy vice, decrease sin and defeat heresies.

4. It will cause virtue and good works to flourish; it will obtain for souls the abundant mercy of God; it will withdraw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities, and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means.

5. The soul which recommends itself to Me by the recitation of the Rosary, shall not perish.

6. Whoever shall recite the Rosary devoutly, applying himself to the consideration of its Sacred Mysteries shall never be conquered by misfortune. God will not chastise him in His justice, he shall not perish by an unprovided death; if he be just he shall remain in the grace of God, and become worthy of eternal life.

7. Whoever shall have a true devotion for the Rosary shall not die without the Sacraments of the Church.

8. Those who are faithful to recite the Rosary shall have during their life and at their death the Light of God and the plentitude of His graces; at the moment of death they shall participate in the merits of the Saints in Paradise.

9. I shall deliver from Purgatory those who have been devoted to the Rosary.

10.The faithful children of the Rosary shall merit a high degree of glory in Heaven.

11.You shall obtain all you ask of Me by the recitation of the Rosary.

12. All those who propagate the Holy Rosary shall be aided by Me in their necessities.

13. I have obtained from My Divine Son that all the advocates of the Rosary shall have for intercessors the entire Celestial Court during their life and at the hour of death.

14. All who recite the Rosary are my sons and daughters, and brothers and sisters of My only Son Jesus Christ.

15. Devotion of My Rosary is a great sign of predestination.

THE QUEENSHIP OF MARY QUEEN MOST HOLY IS CELEBRATED ON AUGUST 22

2008-08-19T18:45:00.012+08:00

CORONATION OF MARY AS QUEEN OF HEAVEN AND EARTH

MOTHER MARY, QUEEN MOST HOLY is a most fitting tribute of this title of Queen as applied to the Mother of God, since she was so closely associated with the redemptive work of Her Son and is the Mediatrix of all Graces.

Pope Pius XII, by his encyclical letter Ad Caeli Reginam of October 11, 1954, granted the unanimous desire of the faithful and their pastors and instituted the feast day of the Queenship of Mary, giving sanction thus to a devotion that was already observed by the faithful throughout the world to the sovereign Mother of heaven and earth.

Before the reform of the General Roman Calendar this feast was originally celebrated on May 31, the last day of the Marian month. Pope Paul VI moved the feast day to August 22.

Assumed into heaven, Mary is with Jesus Christ Her Divine Son. Mary should be called Queen not only because of Her Divine Motherhood of Jesus Christ, Her only Son, but also because God has willed Her to have an exceptional role in the work of our eternal salvation.

The Enclyclical argues, that Christ, because He redeemed us, is our Lord and King by a special title, so the Blessed Virgin also is our Queen, on account of the unique manner in which She assisted in our redemption, by giving of Her own substance, by freely offering Him for us, by Her singular desire and petition for, and active interest in, our salvation.

QUEENSHIP OF MARY

With the certainty of faith we know that Jesus Christ is King in the full, literal, and absolute sense of the word; for He is true God and man. This does not, however, prevent Mary from sharing His Royal Prerogatives, though in a limited and analogous manner; for She was the Mother of Christ, and Christ is God; and She shared in the work of the Divine Redeemer, in His struggles against enemies and in the triumph He won over them all.

From this union with Christ the King She assuredly obtains so eminent a status that She stands high above all created things; and upon this same union with Christ is based that Royal Privilege enabling Her to distribute the treasures of the Kingdom of the Divine Redeemer. And lastly, this same union with Christ is the fountain of the inexhaustible efficacy of Her Motherly Intercession in the presence of the Son and of the Father.

Without doubt, then, does our Holy Virgin possess a dignity that far transcends all other creatures. In the eyes of Her Son, She takes precedence over everyone else. In order to help us understand the preeminence that the Mother of God enjoys over all creation, it would help to remember that from the first moment of her conception the Holy Virgin was filled with such a plenitude of grace as to surpass the graces enhancing all the saints.

Recall what our predecessor Pope Pius IX, of blessed memory, wrote in his Ineflabilis Deus: "More than all the angels and all the saints has God ineffable freely endowed Mary with the fullness of the heavenly gifts that abound in the Divine Treasury; and She, preserving Herself ever immaculately clean from the slightest taint of sin, attained a fullness of innocence and holiness so great as to be unthinkable apart from God Himself, a fullness that no one other than God will ever possess."

Spurred on by piety and faith, may we share in Her glory in being subject to the rule of the Virgin Mother of God; She bears the royal scepter in Her hand, while Her Immaculate Heart is ever aflame with motherly love for all of mankind.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF FR. FERNANDO SUAREZ

2008-08-09T11:46:00.025+08:00

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF FR. FERNANDO SUAREZ - AUGUST 2, 2008

Search the internet, blogs or even YouTube and you will find the number of personal accounts, stories, and news articles on this charismatic Filipino-Canadian priest multiplying at an exponential rate. In this year alone, Fr. Suarez estimates that nearly one million people have attended one of his various Masses across three continents!

Indeed in the past 24 hours, Fr. Suarez would celebrate the Eucharist in two different countries! Friday evening at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, USA with 4,000 in attendance and twelve hours later Saturday morning at St. Joseph’s in Guelph (a small city an hour’s drive west of Toronto, Canada in a neighboring diocese), where 2,000 gathered. The latter, remarkable considering the capacity of the Church holds 800 people and the pastor told me hardly any advertising of this event was done.

This brief opportunity just happened to coincide with a week long vacation Fr. Fernando had, as he prepares for an upcoming three-week trip to Australia. The excess crowds were patiently waiting in the Church’s hall downstairs, or across at a local elementary school’s gymnasium. In both locales, large projection screens and speakers delivered Father’s homily and service.

Although the media has largely focused their attention upon the thousands of healings brought forth by the participants themselves; little has been written of either Fr. Fernando’s hectic schedule; and the personal sacrifices friends and family have made nor to the power of his homilies as he proclaims God’s steadfast love and desire to heal us all of our brokenness. Be it physical or on a more intimate and deeper emotional level. You can ask any of Fr. Fernando’s closest friends and they will tell you how he’s lucky to sleep 2 to 4 hours a night and how his cell phone constantly buzzes.

Indeed, he confided in me that he receives over 10,000 emails a month. To this I quipped that he should be dubbed “the Patron Saint of the internet.” With cell phones and the internet, the testimonies of healings and the story of one priest’s devotion to Jesus through the intercession of the Blessed Mother have reached a global audience!

My wife and I had the chance to see our close friend as we picked him up from the airport and drove him in our Corolla to Guelph. Our God is a God of wonder and little did I know the surprises in store both for myself and those waiting in attendance.

Coming home on Thursday night, I received a short message on our answering machine. “Hello Tom, Air Canada 8:30.” Browsing Pearson Airport’s official website I found two flights from Newark to Toronto. One at 8 AM the other at 9. With mass scheduled at 11 AM, I knew time was of the essence since we still faced an hour’s drive westward on the 401. So we arrived by 7:45 AM at the airport and quickly found parking at a prime location.

By 8:45, my wife looked at me and said, “Where is he? You better call him?” Unsure if the contact number I had was his or not, I tried it thinking it’s probably that of a Filipino contact in New York. A man answered, “Hello” to which I replied, “Yes, can you tell me what flight is Fr. Suarez on?” I only recognized the voice when he replied, “Tom where are you, I’m already here?” “Here? Where? I’m at Terminal 1 (where Air Canada flights land)” Fr. Fernando answered, “I’m at Terminal 3, I took Continental Airlines!"

Fifteen minutes later, we finally met our friend along with Fr. Jeff Shannon and Manny and Rhorie who work for MARY MOTHER OF THE POOR-USA. By now, companions of mine (unaware of where I was) phoned telling me that they may not be able to save us any seats as the church was already full!

Upon leaving the airport, Manny in the car with Fr. Jeff trailing behind us, rang asking “Do you know of any place to eat as none of us had breakfast yet.” I told him that I’ve never been to Guelph before and have no idea.

In that 40 minute drive, we spoke of everything that has happened in our lives over the past three months! Fr. Fernando was happy to be here as this would be the first time he would see his younger sister Shirley with her newborn son, Sean! Like me, we all try to see Father in the brief times before or after one of his healing masses.

Of everything we conversed about one particular story struck me. Fr. Fernando told me of his devotion to the Miraculous Medal which he wears along with a Scapular and Crucifix. Pointing to it, he told me that this particular medal was given to him several years ago; by a nun who happened to walk pass him on a busy street in Ottawa. She looked into his eyes and then stopped. Telling him, “I see the eyes of Jesus in you.” At that moment she took out her Miraculous Medal and handed it over to him saying, “This was given to me in India by Mother Teresa and now I wish to give it to you.”

In my five years of knowing Fr. Suarez and of studying in depth the lives of some of our greatest Saints; I’ve come to learn that those who walk closely with God can recognize the holiness in others. It’s as if they can see the purity of a person’s soul and the strength of the Holy Spirit that resides within.

Such extraordinary daily events make Fr. Fernando a truly blessed person but for him they serve to simply strengthen and re-affirm his unique mission in life. He remains continually humble and in awe of God’s grace.

Arriving in Guelph we turned onto Wellington Street in search of a local Tim Horton’s to get some coffee and a quick breakfast. As we passed one fast food outlet and another I quickly noticed a large “family style” restaurant with an interesting name, “Angel’s Dinner.” Now it was 9:45 a.m. and we rushed inside. The place was packed and after several minutes, it seemed that breakfast may not happen!

Guided perhaps by the Holy Spirit, I mustered the courage to seek and then speak with a lady who seemed to be directing the servers. I told her, “Have you ever heard of St. Joseph’s parish?” To which a blank stare was answered. Then I said, “Could it be possible to have someone take our order? You see, there in the corner are 2 of my friends. They are priests who travel the world. They just came from New York and a few thousand people are expecting them within the hour.” She listened politely and within 30-seconds orders were placed with Fr. Fernando wanting a veggie omelet and coffee just black.

After enjoying the meal and sharing a couple of fond memories, my wife asked for the bill. Two minutes passed by and the lady whom I spoke with came to our table to tell us, “Do not worry about this bill. It’s on me! Have a great day!” She had never met nor heard of Fr. Suarez yet somehow our Lord impressed upon her heart to do such a generous act.

These are the kinds of stories that each of us need to share with one another. Our Lord is alive and well. He moves and inspires people to help others often in the subtlest of ways.

We arrived at St. Joseph’s with just 15 minutes to go. We were quickly introduced & warmly received by the main Pastor Fr. Ken Miskiewicz. As Fr. Suarez was looking over the readings and attending to other last minute details, Fr. Ken told me how someone (a local businessman) anonymously donated 2,000 bottles of water in anticipation of the crowds! When we give to Jesus and serve Him, he will always provide, was the thought that came to me upon hearing this surprise!

HOMILY – 11 AM at ST. JOSEPH PARISH

Delivered in Fr. Fernando Suarez’s own words:

(This Homily was done spontaneously with no notes or preparation! Here for the first time in print, you the reader can gain a window into the power of his homilies. Note how he uses humor while at the same time delivering the Good News on a personal yet easily relatable level.)

Good Morning everyone!

Last night, I was in Newark and as I entered the Cathedral at 8 PM. Fr. Paul Lehman (District Director of Bukas Loob Sa Diyos Newark) asked me, “Are you aware that you have Mass tomorrow at 11 AM in Guelph (Canada)?” Further adding, “How is this possible?” I replied, “I don’t know. I’m going to fly!” (Audience laughs)

The Mass ended around midnight and by 5 AM, I was already at the airport. I asked our Lord, “God, you want me to be in Guelph.” I don’t know how I was able to come here. Our Lord provides for everything. God even feeds me. We went to a restaurant in a hurry. Two of my confidants went to the manager and told them that many people were waiting for this Healing Mass. In the end, the manager came to our table to pay! Free breakfast, not because of me but because of all of you here!

This happened to St. John the Baptist when we serve the real Jesus. He (Christ) will do everything and anything for us. In the Sacristy, one of the priest told me (regarding the atmosphere of the Church) this feels like Easter or Christmas. Isn’t this the way it should always be?

Jesus rose from the dead, in order for us to have someone to hang onto in times of difficulties & trials. You are all here because a loved one is sick or you yourself have cancer (etc.) But the main reason is because God called you here. He is going to give His Son Jesus through the Eucharist to heal us. We have only one healer.

This is all too humbling for me. Some tell me of their particular sickness to which I draw a blank. “You’ve never heard of this type?” “No,” I reply, “I’m not a doctor.” I never imagined that I would heal (be an instrument of God) but rather preach. God has his own plan for those who believe and are faithful like St. John.

Yesterday, I met a couple who told me they traveled all the way from Florida. I answered, “I hope you are not disappointed.” (Crowd laughs) There was one lady who came from California. In the end, I gave her a hug and said, “God loves you!” She cried and looked at me, “Father that was worth the trip!” There is such a great hunger and need for love yet it is so hard for it to penetrate into our bones and being. I hope you realize this very truth that He (God) loves each and every one of us. God is so faithful and loving and desires to make Himself available in every Sacrament. A Sacrament is not a Sacrament without the very Presence of Jesus. Jesus is so powerful and society (at large) is trying to kill God who is within us. (Since we are created by Him and in His Image.) Mary, Our Blessed Mother knew of this truth and I continually invoke Her intercession.

I was so young, 16 when I first encountered a manifestation of God’s power to heal. I knew no prayers other than the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be. As I recited them, lo and behold she (the lady) stood up and walked. I was frightened!

These are the only prayers I do when I’m praying over people. Mary is so powerful and so too is St. John because of their faith in God. Some people tell me, “Why should I pray/ask Mary? She is only a human being.” To which I reply, “Why then are you asking me to pray for you. I too am a human being!”

Last night I met a troubled boy whose grandmother told me was very angry. He was expelled from his last school for bringing in a weapon. The boy, 9 years old came to me and wanted a photo. I forced myself to smile as it was already midnight and I was tired. He was so pleased that he gave me $US20. I told him, I would give this to the poor as I embraced him. Sometimes I have to push myself to be conscious of what I’m doing. I prayed, “God give him the grace to experience your love,” and touched his forehead adding “Don’t be angry.” At 3 AM (this morning – 3 hours later) I get a phone call from the boy’s grandmother saying he cried for 2 hours non-stop and that his facial expression changed to that of a lamb!

How much more can we have when we receive Jesus! We need to learn to forgive others and to break our hardened hearts. We deprive ourselves from experiencing the presence of God since He is not our priority. There is so much helplessness and fear. Look up. Look to the Cross. “Come to me, all of you heavily burdened.” Do not be afraid if you have cancer, etc. With so many who are ill, perhaps that is why these Healing Masses are so popular. (Crowd laughs knowing Father is joking.) God offers you permanent joy!

I first met Bong a young 35 year-old American scientist suffering from pancreatic cancer a couple of years ago in Ottawa. Doctors gave him 2 months to live. Now two years have passed and while I was in a conference in San Francisco, I received an email from someone saying, “Father, there’s this guy (Bong) whose suffering in great pain but is refusing to enter the ambulance until he sees you.” I went to him bringing a ciborium with Jesus. “This is Jesus, the Body of Christ. He is here!” The moment that host touched his tongue all pain immediately disappeared. The lady who brought me there flipped. “Father, I saw him in pain dying.” Praise the Lord!

This past February, Bong attended my 6th anniversary celebration as a priest. “Father, my cancer is still here but you and Jesus have given me a sense of hope to live. I now live life to its fullest as if I do not have any cancer.”

Sometimes we Catholics don’t fully know who Jesus is. Some parents teach their kids about Jesus as if it’s an exam. So when they finish school, no more exams, no more Jesus. Don’t just go to Jesus when you need something. Go to Him seeking a personal relationship. You will find that He will change your life. Have the strength and peace the world cannot give. This comes only from God, the God of eternity who is so good, magnificent and omnipotent and who loves us all.

AMEN.

Fr. Fernando then began a general prayer for healing, “Merciful and loving God; you called all these people from various countries, heal them of . . . Lord God, grant them the grace to forgive and to remove their anger and bitterness . . . Thank you oh Lord God!"

At this point, several people in the pews are openly weeping as if from just Fr. Suarez’s words a heavy burden was being lifted!

After the final blessing, Fr. Suarez then began to pray over each and every person individually. This was to last till 4:15 PM with him only stopping for a minute to drink some water or when moving down to the church hall.

As one of the catchers, I saw scenes that I’ve become rather accustomed too. Namely, someone complaining they cannot hear in one ear or of pain in their backs, etc. Seconds later, I see that very same person now smiling and praising God! As usual, there are several medical doctors who with a notebook are taking down their names and asking for more details.

In all my years of attending Father’s Healing Masses (which I know that every Mass is a healing one), that particular Mass yesterday was a very powerful one. When we went downstairs, I was overwhelmed by the large numbers of people sitting in wheelchairs. Fr. Fernando quickly went to the first person told them “get up” and they did so instantaneously! In fact this happened to the first 15 in a row and all I now saw were men and women pushing their wheelchairs out of the room to make space for those standing behind them and awaiting their moment to experience God’s love through Fr. Suarez’s intercession. The atmosphere in the room was one of great awe and electrifying. I asked a family member “How many years has he been in a wheelchair unable to walk?” With tears of joy in her eyes, she replied “40!”

After Mass, we had dinner and some quiet time with the Church’s Pastor, Fr. Fernando, and a few members of his family and close friends.

By 5:30 PM, Ivanka and I left heading back to Toronto overjoyed/in awe with the day’s events and what we were now experiencing right before us. Fr. Suarez would be driven by another friend to a local hotel to finally catch up on sleep before boarding another flight out to the West Coast early Sunday morning!

TOMISLAV PRUGO, M.A., B.Ed.

MARY MOTHER OF THE POOR

Chairperson for Education

PARENTS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: ST. JOACHIM AND ST. ANN

2008-07-28T20:55:00.024+08:00

FROM THE PROTOEVANGELIUM OF JAMES

In Nazareth there lived a rich and pious couple, Joachim and Hannah. They were childless. When on a feast day Joachim presented himself to offer sacrifice in the temple, he was repulsed by a certain Ruben, under the pretext that men without offspring were unworthy to be admitted.

Whereupon Joachim, bowed down with grief, did not return home, but went into the mountains to make his plaint to God in solitude. Also Hannah, having learned the reason of the prolonged absence of her husband, cried to the Lord to take away from her the curse of sterility, promising to dedicate her child to the service of God.

Their prayers were heard; an angel came to Hannah and said: "Hannah, the Lord has looked upon thy tears; thou shalt conceive and give birth and the fruit of thy womb shall be blessed by all the world".

The angel made the same promise to Joachim, who returned to his wife. Hannah gave birth to a daughter whom she called Miriam (Mary).

FROM THE MYSTICAL CITY OF GOD

In revelations to the Venerable Sister Maria of Agreda, Our Lady made this known about her parents Anne and Joachim:

They were chaste and just people, they were very religious and studied the Holy Scriptures, they both prayed fervently for the coming of the Messiah.

They got married and lived in Nazareth where they practiced all virtue in their works, making themselves very acceptable and pleasing to the Most High and avoiding all blemish in their doings.

The rents and incomes of their state they divided each year into three parts. The first one they offered to the temple of Jerusalem for the worship of the Lord; the second they distributed to the poor, and the third they retained for the decent sustenance of themselves and family. God augmented their temporal goods on account of their generosity and charity.

They were childless for twenty years and they accepted the Will of God, continuing their prayers for the coming of the Messiah, meanwhile the Lord prepared them for the great job that was ahead, that of being the parents of Her who would be the Mother of the Redeemer.

They promised that if they had a child, they would consecrate it to the service of the temple of Jerusalem.

St. Gabriel the Archangel revealed separately to each one of the them that they would have a daughter whose name would be Mary. He didn't mention anything about her becoming later on the Mother of the Redeemer. He said that the Lord had heard their prayers and took into account their generosity and alms.

ANGEL'S MESSAGE

After many days there alone, pouring out the sadness in his heart before God, an angel appeared to Joachim in dazzling light. The vision frightened him, but the angel said: "Don't be afraid, I have come to tell you the Lord has heard your prayers. He knows how good you are and He knows your many years of sorrow for having no child. God will give your wife a child just as He did Sarah, the wife of Abraham and Anna, the mother of Samuel. Your wife Ann will bear you a daughter. You shall call Her Mary and dedicate Her to God, for She will be filled with the Holy Spirit from Her mother's womb."

"I will give you a sign", the angel continued. "Go back to Jerusalem. You will meet your wife at the Golden Gate, and your sorrow will be turned into joy."

Meanwhile, Ann, not knowing where her husband had gone, grew anxious and afraid. She, too was hurt that she had no children and felt as though she were being punished by God. Going into the garden, she noticed some sparrows building a nest in a laurel tree, for it was springtime, and she began to cry: "Why was I born O Lord? The birds build nests for their young, yet I have no child of my own. The animals of the earth, the fish of the sea are fruitful, yet I have nothing. The land produces fruit in due season, yet I have no infant to hold in my arms."

Suddenly, the angel of the Lord came to her and said, "Ann, the Lord has heard your prayer. You shall conceive a child whom the whole world will praise. Go to the Golden Gate in Jerusalem and meet your husband there."

So she quickly went to the city gate. The two met there and embraced, and joyfully shared the news the angel had given them. Returning home, Ann conceived and bore a daughter, and called her Mary. Mary was a common name for Jewish women of the time. The name is derived from Miriam, who was the sister of Moses.

BIRTH OF OUR LADY

She was born pure and stainless, beautiful and full of grace, thereby demonstrating, that She was free from the law and the tribute of sin.

Although She was born substantially like other daughters of Adam, yet her birth was accompanied by such circumstances and conditions of Grace, that it was the most wonderful and miraculous birth in all creation and will eternally redound to the praise of Her Maker. At twelve o'clock in the night this divine luminary issued forth, dividing the night of the ancient law and its pristine darkness from the new day of Grace, which now was about to break into dawn.

She was clothed, handled and dressed like other infants, though Her soul dwelt in the Divinity; and She was treated as an infant, though She excelled all mortals and even all the angels in Wisdom. Her mother did not allow Her to be touched by other hands than her own, but She herself wrapped her in swaddling clothes; and in this Saint Anne was not hindered by her present state of childbirth; for she was free from the toils and labors which other mothers usually endure in such circumstances.

At the age of three, the little child was taken to the temple and the parents suffered great sorrow but at the same time joy for fulfilling the vows they had made to the Lord.

The Queen of Heaven, was received by the holy priest Simeon.

The child Mary, when brought to her teacher, knelt in profound humility before her and asked her blessing. She begged to be admitted among those under her direction, obedience and counsel, and asked her kind forbearance in the labor and trouble, which She would occasion. The prophetess Anne, her teacher, received Her with pleasure and said to Her: My daughter, Thou shall find in me a helpful mother and I will take care of Thee and of Thy education with all possible solicitude.

Saint Joachim accepted St. Anne as his spouse at the age of forty six, twenty years later Mary was borne and He died three and a half years later at the age of sixty nine and a half.

St. Anne was espoused to St. Joachim at the age of twenty four and she died when she was forty eight. Both St. Joachim and St. Anne were informed of the dignity of Mary just before they died.

The feast of St. Joachim and St. Anne as pious Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated on July 26.

THE LIVES OF ST. JOACHIM AND ST. ANN

theworkofgod.org

LEARNING FROM THE HEART OF MARY

2008-07-23T23:49:00.019+08:00

THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY

May is traditionally a Marian month. As small children, many of us began participating in Flores De Mayo festivities, offering songs and flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Depicted in various beautiful images and honored under many titles, Mary is a woman unlike any other. We call her the Immaculate Conception, Our Lady of the Rosary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help ... and rightfully so, for she is certainly all these.

But what makes Mary great? More than being the Mother of Jesus Christ, She was His first and, above all, His most faithful disciple. As the Lord said, "Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it." (Lk 11:28). These words of Scripture describe Mary in a nutshell.

MARY'S TOTAL OBEDIENCE

None of God's creatures, both human or angelic, resembles Christ as closely as She does. Like Her Son, Mary, who was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, submitted Herself fully to the Father's Will. Her FIAT, Her YES to God, was so total that She followed Him even to Calvary.

"The Blessed Virgin advanced in Her pilgrimage of faith, and faithfully persevered in Her union with Her Son unto the Cross, where She stood, in keeping with the Divine Plan, enduring with Her only Begotten Son the intensity of His suffering, associated Herself with His Sacrifice in Her Mother's Heart, and lovingly consenting to the immolation of this Victim which was born of Her" (Lumen Gentium 58).

In obedience to the Father, Jesus laid down His life to redeem the world. Although He was God, Jesus was also human. And so to be obedient even unto death was not an easy prospect for Him. Indeed, what the Father had asked of Him was a great sacrifice. This is why He agonized in the Garden of Gethsemane on the eve of His Passion.

As His Mother, Mary has a special share on Her Son's work of salvation (CF. LG 57). For any mother, watching her child suffer and die is unbearable. So much more for Mary, who loved Her Son not only as Her Child but also as Lord. She know Him more than anyone else, loved Him in the fullest sense. To watch Him humiliated and unjustly condemned to death, to walk with Him on the way of the Cross and watch Him die a most violent death, to received His lifeless body, to bury Him, to have to endure life without Him ... all these were asked of Her. She could have refused and spared Herself from the unimaginable pain. She could have hidden Herself with the other disciples and apostles. But She did not. She chose to do the Father's will even in moments when She did not understand.

A MEEK AND HUMBLE HEART

Only a few of Mary's spoken words are in the Bible. But through Her example of silent obedience, She speaks volumes. She shows us with utmost clarity that to be truly Christ-like does not consists in being able to perform great works, heal the sick, or preach eloquently. While these are all good, they would mean noting without humility. And true humility consists in recognizing that God's ways are better than ours. Thus, the truly humble are also truly obedient.

In His Heart, Christ is truly humble. "Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart" (Mt 11:29). He never claimed greatness for Himself and instead attributed it to His Father. Mary does the same thing. After being chosen to be the Mother of God, she calls herself a lowly handmaid of the Lord (CF. Lk 1:38) and glorifies God in the Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55). Mary never calls attention to Herself. She always points us to Jesus Christ. She draws us all under Her maternal protection for the sole purpose of bringing us to Her Son. As She told the servers at the wedding at Cana, "Do whatever He tells you" (Jn 2:5).

Indeed true devotion to Mary always leads to Jesus. "The Church does not hesitate to profess its subordinate role of Mary, which it constantly experiences and recommends to the heartfelt attention of the faithful, so that encouraged by this maternal help they may the more closely adhere to the Mediator and Redeemer (Jesus Christ)" (LG 62).

Jesus, who was the first to entrust Himself to Mary in the Incarnation, did not hesitate to entrust each and everyone of us to Her before He died. "Behold your Mother" (Jn 19:27). He knows how much we need our Heavenly Mother in our pilgrimage here on earth. She, who was His first teacher, continues to speak to each and everyone of us today, "Do whatever He tells you!" Follow Her example, live the Gospel of Love.

In entrusting ourselves to Her Most Holy and Immaculate Heart, we can be absolutely certain that Mary will help us to become more and more conformed to the Heart of Her Beloved Son.

MARIA DIVINA SOLANO
The Messenger of Divine Love
Volume II Number 4
April-June 2008

ORATORY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY AT MONTEMARIA

2008-06-27T19:21:00.005+08:00

PROPOSED STATUE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
MOTHER OF THE POOR AT MONTEMARIA BATANGAS

It is at MonteMaria in Batangas City, Philippines where the designated site of the Oratory of Our Blessed Virgin Mary and the tallest statue of Mary Mother of the Poor will stand 33 stories high upon completion, the highest in the world; as a fitting tribute to God's great love for us, His Children of the Poor.

The architectural plan was painstakingly drafted by RD Ragojos Architectural Design Group based on a detailed description of a vision given to Fr. Fernando Suarez in one of his dreams. In this vivid dream it was revealed to Fr. Suarez that this pilgrimage site is meant to serve as an apostolic and evangelization center for pilgrims wanting to experience a deeper relationship with God through the intercession of Our Beloved Mary, Mother of the Poor.

ORATORY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Aside from a tall and majestic monument of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin Mary includes a Rosary Garden, Stations of the Cross, Eucharistic Adoration Chapel, Saint Joseph Chapel, Divine Mercy Chapel, House of Mary, House of Joseph, Scala Santa, and the Infant Jesus Chapel.

It also includes retreat houses that will serve as a way station for pilgrims, complete with board and lodging facilities, souvenir shops, a conference center, and an international healing center for the poor.

MONTEMARIA is a haven for pilgrims and not only a place of prayer, but also a fervent prayer in itself, and an oratory dedicated to Mary, Mother of the Poor, a sacred sanctuary of pilgrims and devotees to renew their love for Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother. It is a secure refuge where the tired soul withdraws to find peace and solace, and thereby discover how Mary comes to the aid of those in need of strength and consolation, the poor in society and the poor in spirit.

SEVEN GRACES OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

2008-06-09T18:36:00.011+08:00

SEVEN PROMISES OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY TO ST. BRIDGET:

The Blessed Virgin Mary grants seven graces to the souls who honor Her daily by meditating on her tears and sorrows. The Hail Mary is prayed seven times, once after each meditation. This devotion was passed on by St. Bridget.

1. I will grant peace to their families.

2. They will be enlightened about the Divine Mysteries.

3. I will console them in their pains and I will accompany them in their work.

4. I will give them as much as they ask for as long as it does not oppose the Adorable Will of My Divine Son or the sanctification of their souls.

5. I will defend them in their spiritual battles with the infernal enemy and I will protect them at every instant of their lives.

6. I will visibly help them at the moment of their death; they will see the face of their Mother.

7. I have obtained (This Grace) from my Divine Son, that those who propagate this Devotion to my tears and sorrows, will be taken directly from this earthly life to eternal happiness since all their sins will be forgiven and my Son and I will be their eternal consolation and joy.

MEDITATION AND PRAYERS

I. Prophecy of Simeon

Luke 3:25-35

Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel." And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed."

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

II. Flight of The Holy Family Into Egypt

Matthew 2:13-18

...Behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt have I called my son." Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men.

Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: "A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more."

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

III. The Child Jesus is Lost in the Temple

Luke 2:41-52

Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom; and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to be in the company they went a day's journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances; and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions; and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously." And he said to them, "How is is that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" And they did not understand the saying which He spoke to them. And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and His Mother kept all these things in Her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

IV. The Meeting of Jesus and Mary on the Way of the Cross

Jesus, our Savior, meets Mary, the Our Lady of Sorrows. Oceans of grief deluge the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary as they face each other. They suffer thus for my sins. O Jesus, O Mary, bathe my sinful soul in a sea of true sorrow for my past offenses. In all temptation let us say: "Jesus, Mary, help me!"

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

V. The Crucifixion

Matthew 27:33-50

And when they came to a place called Gol'gotha (which means the place of a skull), they offered him wine to drink, mingled with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots; then they sat down and kept watch over him there. And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, "This is Jesus the King of the Jews."

Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross." So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, "He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him; for he said, `I am the Son of God." And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.

Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, la'ma sabach-tha'ni?" that is, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" And some of the bystanders hearing it said, "This man is calling Elijah." And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave it to him to drink. But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." And Jesus cried again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit.

John 19:25-30

But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son!" Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother!" And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. After this Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the scripture), "I thirst." A bowl full of vinegar stood there; so they put a sponge full of the vinegar on hyssop and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the vinegar, he said, "It is finished"; and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

VI. Jesus Is Taken Down From The Cross

John 19:31-37

Since it was the day of Preparation, in order to prevent the bodies from remaining on the cross on the sabbath (for that sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him; but when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. He who saw it has borne witness -- his testimony is true, and he knows that he tells the truth -- that you also may believe. For these things took place that the scripture might be fulfilled, "Not a bone of him shall be broken." And again another scripture says, "They shall look on him whom they have pierced."

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

VII. The Burial of Jesus

John 19:38-42

After this Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him leave. So he came and took away his body. Nicodemus also, who had at first come to him by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds' weight. They took the body of Jesus, and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb where no one had ever been laid. So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, as the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.

Let us Pray:

Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us.

HOW DO I LIVE WITHOUT YOUR LOVE MY LORD

2008-06-08T11:29:00.014+08:00

HOW DO I LIVE WITHOUT YOUR LOVE LORD?

How do I get through one night without You
If I had to live without You
What kind of life would that be
Oh I, I need You in my arms
Need You to hold
You're my world, my heart, my soul
If You ever leave
Jesus You would take away everything good in my life

Without You, there'd be no sun in my sky
There would be no Love in my life
There'd be no world left for me
And I, Mary, I don't know what I would do
I'd be lost if I lost You
If You ever leave
Jesus You would take away everything real in my life
And tell me now

How do I live without You
I want to know
How do I breathe without You
If You ever go
How do I ever, ever survive
How do I
How do I
Oh, how do I live

If You ever leave
Jesus You would take away everything
Need you with me
Jesus Don't you know that you're everything good in my life

And tell me now
How do I live without You
I want to know
How do I breathe without You
If you ever go
How do I ever, ever survive
How do I
How do I
Oh, how do I live

How do I live without You Jesus

Adaptation from the original lyrics of How Do I Live Without You
To select song, go to playlist media player at bottom page bar

How Do I Live Without You
Sung by Faith Hill

MONUMENTS OF DIVINE LOVE, SECURITY, REFUGE AND STRENGTH

2008-06-07T01:35:00.001+08:00

PROPOSED STATUE OF MARY MOTHER OF THE POOR

Soon to rise in Montemaria, Batangas City, Philippines is a sacred place of worship and retreat that will offer the tired and weary soul a solemn haven for spiritual invigoration and Divine Reflection.

On this vast 15-hectare property, MONTEMARIA is an ambitious project of Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation (MMPF), an apostolic initiative of Father Fernando Suarez, the world-renowned popular Filipino priest-healer who is on an international healing mission worldwide.

Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation (MMPF) is an apostolic endeavor with the aim to seek holiness in evangelizing and working with the poor through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As the centerpiece of the proposed tourism and pilgrimage site, will rise a majestic statue of Mary, Mother of the Poor as tall as the Statue of Liberty that overlooks the horizon, like a beacon of light, a proclamation of faith, a steadfast companion and guide for the earthly traveler as he journeys his way to God.

Where the Mother is, there also is the Son. Near the majestic statue of Mary will also rise the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus whose Heart is the overflowing Vessel of security and refuge for those who seek God's Love and Divine Mercy.

These two monuments are to be the newest and most important landmarks of God's great Love and Mercy that pay tribute to His Son Jesus and the Mother of Divine Mercy, Mary, the Mother of the Poor.