HFL, SvFL & SFL Congress

CFFL 37th Anniversary Sportsfest

Why Serve?
Unanswered Yet?
IBC Meeting 2018
. . . and more personal sharings!

The Official Magazine of Catholics for Family & Life (CFFL) UAE
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

Editor’s Note #CFFLTVM

I have been out of the country for the past five (5)
Editorial Team
months, in fact I missed the Destined for Greatness Echo
conference. I was back home in Cebu right before New
Year and I was a spectator of all the events happen-
ing inside the community via social media. Eventhough
I was there, I see to it to always take a glimpse of what Writers & Contributors
are the current teachings and happenings - - - to - of ………..........…………..............…........
course use them to be a part for this issue. I have to Marie Navacilla Cadag
mention though that #TVM19 was supposed to be re- Kayla Michelle Concepcion
leased during our June CFFL 37th Anniversary Sports- Rhoda Datinguinoo - Antonio
fest, but due to lack of entries it is moved this month of Eloisa Aguila (Love Pursuit)
August. Praise God we made it! Jenny Agsoy - Vidanes
Jing Navarro Bayoneto
Another important announcement too, is that from this Bennelyn Castañeda
year, we are releasing the issues every National GA. Allan & Ching Polina
Therefore - expect 3 issues per year from March - which Divine Grace Garcia
is usually our Echo Conference season, June - anniver- Maria Amafel Abad
sary month & finally November - which is the pastoral Salve Aldeguer
month. Kristyl Mabano
Eleanor Llanes
In this issue, expect loads of photos from the past 3 Tess Divina
conferences from HFL, SvFL & SFL ministries. Our Pho- Jean Gagui
to Gallery too has much more, plus the a special space Marylou Ugad
for the successfully concluded IBC Meeting - to which Mavic Arnoza
we had the privelege to host.
Thank you as well to all the servants
Sharings, personal lesson learned and take homes, a of each writers.
movie review, a sister’s journey to becoming or being
beyond 30, more poetry and simply the very core reali-
zation of being blesses beyond measure. www.cfcffl.net entries for From SG

So, wait no more! Dig in and be inspired!

Photo Contributors & Layout Editors
May God be praised. ………..........…………..............…......................…........

Gilbert Sioson
Praying for you and your family! Ronaldo Dacky Sumabat,
Jaime Jr Pascua Gorospe,
Sis JM Joshmhel L. Galang
Darrelle D. Chavez
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
PS. We continue to ask for your support by simply sharing us
your own stories of faith. Send us your entries and let’s inspire
each. other. Be blessed and be God’s blessing! :)

Credits to the owners of the photos CFFL UAE TVM

from their Facebook accounts. Editorial Directors CFFL - The Vineyard Magazine
………..........…………..............…........ Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
Editorial Consultants CFFL SC - Servant Council © TVM 2018
………..........…………..............…........
Spiritual Adviser Blog:
Pong & Nancy Buan
………..........…………..............…........ cfflthevineyardmagazine.wordpress.com
Rowena & Bonnie Jardino
Allan & Chingky Polina Rev. Fr. Troadio “Troy” delos Santos
Darrelle D. Chavez Share the story and pages on
Berly Granates Email: Social Media with these #hashtags!
cfflmedia.uae@gmail.com
jm_kayne@yahoo.com
Editor-in-chief Volume 6 (Year) | Issue 2
………..........…………..............…........ #TheVineyardMagazine
Julie Mae H. Bacus - Chavez Publisher: #CFFLMagazineUAE
(www.iamjmkayne.com) National Packaging and Printing Est. #CFFLUAETVM
Mussafah, Abu Dhabi UAE #CFFLTVM19
+971-2-5513353 #TVM19

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The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

About the cover

What's Inside
This quarter in The Vineyard Magazine (TVM)

Table of Contents :

Regulars
01 - From the Editor
01 - Your TVM Team
02 - About the Cover
03 - From the Servant General
12 - Let’s Play (FYI & Games page)
22 - Fotoquotetoh
25 - Selfie/Groupie w/ TVM
We are children of the Lord most high... We
were born to make manifest the glory of God
that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; It’s
National in everyone of us.

We have a purpose in life. A bigger goal. An

07 - Chosen Generation ulitmate dream. It doesn’t matter whether it’s
09 - WSC 2018 big or small or let our own light shine by shar-
ing your love, your talent, knowledge or being
15 - HFL Congress 2018 inspiration to others.
24 - CFFL 37th Anniversary Sportsfest
Accept His gifts of Mercy. Live simply for Him
and simply live to make those around you bet-
ter.
Sharings Jesus showed us that we can attain this great-
ness through obedience and prayer. God loves
04 - A Beautiful Message us and God has an amazing plan for all of us.
06 - Worthy Pain *This issue’s cover is created by Bro.
06 - Journey beyond 30 Gilbert Sioson of CFL Sharjah.
06 - Why Serve?
11 - CFFL Music Min Abu Dhabi
20 - Blessed Beyond Measure

Poetic Side
Inspirational
Pages 23 has these items:
(sometimes page 24)
05 - Journey to Motherhood
08 - Slow Down by Love Pursuit
23 - Angels
1 0 - Do Not be Anxious
23 - Pag-ibig
1 7 - Movie Review: The Shack
23 - Saan Ako Tutungo?
1 8 - The Way to be Blessed
23 - Love for God
2 1 - Lovestruck Position (From the Ed’s desk)

Credits to all the owners of the photos that appears in this issue.
We will not be able to mention you one by one, but you know who you are. Thank you so much!

2
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

From the Servant General

Our Theme for 2018
[DESTINED FOR GREATNESS]

GREATNESS for
SERVANTHOOD - 2
by: Tito Frank Padilla | Reference: http://cfcffl.net/greatness-in-servanthood-2/

(Part 40) | February 28, 2018

Today’s gospel: Matthew 20:17-28

We are to be great in Christ. For some, that will be their undoing, as they look to sinful pride in such great-
ness. For others, that will be their exaltation, as they accept greatness with humility.

Jesus had just finished telling his disciples about his coming passion (v.17-19). But here are James and John,
together with their mother, asking Jesus for seats of honor at his right and at his left in his kingdom (v.20-21).
And even when Jesus, in reference to what would happen to him and conversely to his followers, asked them
if they could drink the cup of suffering, they said yes. (v.22b).

Now “when the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers.” (v.24). It probably was not be-
cause they thought the two were doing something outrageous. Rather, they themselves were thinking the
same things, desiring the same positions of glory, but were beaten to it by the two!

Jesus then used this live situation to teach them a lesson. “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over
them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, who-
ever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant” (v.25-26). It was not wrong to be great, or even
to wish to be great in the sense of doing great things for God and for His glory, but greatness was not about
worldly power but about humble service.

The first is the last. The greatest is the least. “Whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.”
(v.27). Greatness is about taking the lowest place, and just allowing God to lift up the humble to great heights.
It is not about being the lord but being the servant. It is the very posture of Jesus, who is Lord and Master.
“Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve” (v.28a). And in such service, it is to give one’s
all, to hold nothing back, to offer one’s very life. Like Jesus, it is “to give his life as a ransom for many.” (v.28b).

You are destined for greatness. Desire it, as God’s will for you. But understand well what it entails. Let not
Jesus say, “You do not know what you are asking.” (v.22a).

FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL - Are the different topics that our Servant General Tito Frank
Padilla has written. The topics shared on TVM issues are chosen by the Editor and each part has a
larger range to a certain subject or theme.
For more readings, visit http://cfcffl.org/from_the_sg/content.htm

movie & book reviews etc. Each quarter, we

Fancy reading your own write up, poem,
stories, community life
experiences , photos on the pages of
our magazine?!
We got you covered!
Calling all brothers and sisters who would like
to share their time and talent! The Vineyard
Magazine (TVM) is open to all who would like
to write and share their photos, write ups,
feature the stories of all ministries from all
Emirates. We value your share and so we will
really appreciate you sending us your pieces.
Email us at cfflmedia.uae@gmail.com or
message the Editor-in-chief, Sis JM on her
Facebook account (JM Kayne). We look
forward for your contributions!
May God be praised

3
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
Beautiful Message
Story shared by Sis Jean Gagui (CFL Abu Dhabi)
A rich man looked through his window and
saw a poor man picking something from his
dustbin ... He said, Thank GOD I’m not poor.
The poor man looked around and saw a naked
man misbehaving on the street ... He said, Thank
GOD I’m not mad.
The mad man looked ahead and saw an ambu-
lance carrying a patient ... He said, Thank GOD
am not sick.
Then a sick person in hospital saw a trolley
taking a dead body to the mortuary ... He said,
Thank GOD I’m not dead.
Only a dead person cannot thank God.
Why don’t you thank GOD today for all your
blessings and for the gift of life ... for another
beautiful day.
What is LIFE?
To understand life better, you have to go to 3
locations :
1. Hospital
2. Prison
3. Cemetery
At the Hospital, you will understand that noth-
ing is more beautiful than HEALTH.
In the Prison, you’ll see that FREEDOM is the
most precious thing.
At the Cemetery, you will realize that life is
worth nothing. The ground that we walk today
will be our roof tomorrow.
Sad Truth* : We all come with Nothing and we
will go with Nothing ... Let us, therefore, remain
humble and be thankful & grateful to God at all
times for everything.
4
Worthy Pain
By: Sis Maria Amafel Abad (SFL Dubai)
The pain won’t go away until I learn.
I remembered this quote of Paulo Coelho in his
book Warrior of the Light: A Manual which says:
“A warrior of light knows that certain moments
repeat themselves. He often finds himself faced
by the same problems and situations, and see-
ing these difficult situations return, he grows de-
pressed, thinking that he is incapable of making
any progress in life.
‘I’ve been through this all before,’ he says to his
heart.
‘Yes, you have been through this all before,’ re-
plies his heart. ‘But you have never been beyond
it.’
Then the warrior realizes that these repeated ex-
periences have but one aim: to teach him what he
does not want to learn.”
The pattern will break sooner or later. I am grate-
ful that it is happening, this experience will make
me stronger and wiser. And as I go on and sur-
renders to God who is greater than my pain I will
discern what mistakes are teaching me. Face the
problem, know the roots and find the solution.
Certain events happen with purpose. Fresh start
will begin.
As Hebrews 12:10-11 says
They disciplined us for a little while as they
thought best; but God disciplines us for our good,
in order that we may share in his holiness. No dis-
cipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.
Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righ-
teousness and peace for those who have been
trained by it.
Endure the pain. As I am enduring it I understand
the pain of others. I respect their battles. Em-
pathy is now involve. And in time, I will share to
others how I survive and how God never leave
during the storm.
Cry. Pray. Learn.
Let Go and Let God.

MY JOURNEY TO MOTHERHOOD:
From Miscarriage to P regnancy
by: Sis Marie Navacilla-Cadag (CFL Abu Dhabi)
January 11, 2017 – the day my
heart broke. It was 6 weeks since
I first suspected that I was preg-
nant. I went to the bathroom to
prepare for a supposedly normal
duty day, when I noticed a dis-
charge in my underwear. I did not
really mind about it because they
said it’s normal with an early preg-
nancy. So I went to work, expect-
ing everything was okay. When
I told my colleague about it, she
immediately panicked and rushed
me to the Emergency room. She
knew what exactly was going
on because she has been in the
same situation before – a miscar-
riage. The OB doctor checked me
through an ultrasound and found
a sac but nothing inside it. There
was no heartbeat detected, which
is unusual for a 6 weeks pregnant.
The doctor said it was a chemical
pregnancy, meaning a fetus failed
to develop. It felt like my world fell
apart. It was so devastating. All of
a sudden, my hope of becoming a
mom and all the excitement were
taken away from me.
Three months had passed when
I suspected that I was pregnant
again. I remember taking a preg-
nancy test kit a day after my 29th
birthday, and it was positive! It
was the best birthday gift ever!
I was almost 6 weeks pregnant
when we had our first ultrasound.
It was all good except for one
thing – there was a hemorrhage
just few centimeters away from
my baby’s sac. It was even larger
than the sac!
My past experience suddenly
clouded my mind. You have no
idea how terrified I was. My OB
was worried about possible bleed-
ing so he advised me to have a
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
week leave. It was impossible for
me to leave that long for some
never fails to make me feel how
much He loves me unconditional-
reasons, which made me feel more ly. Each moment during this deli-
terrified for my baby’s condition. cate stage of my pregnancy jour-
But the amazing thing was, even ney was like God’s assurance of
if I still went to work, I never had His protection, despite my preg-
any bleeding at all! I felt God’s un- nancy’s condition. Truly, our God
conditional love through the peo- is far greater and bigger than any
ple around me – my husband, my of our circumstances and even all
family, my close friends, the CFFL our circumstances combined!
community especially our house-
hold -- who untiringly prayed for
me and our baby’s safety. I praise
God that he taught me a great les-
son during that time –
“. . . in times like this,
you don’t have to be alone”.
Finally, on December 29, 2017, just
before the year 2017 ended, I de-
It was May 14, 2017, Mother’s Day,
livered a bouncing 3.54kg baby
when we finally heard our baby’s
boy, who we named Zacchaeus
heartbeat for the first time. It was
Gabriel. Truly, what they say is
a magical moment. We felt much
true -- if it’s really meant to be,
more relieved when the doctor
it will happen eventually, as long
revealed that the hemorrhage
as it’s God’s divine plan. We may
shrank from 2.29cm to 1.80cm.
have failed the first time, but God
During the ninth week, the OB said
always proves to us that His will is
the hemorrhage was still there, but
and will always be the best.
he told me not to focus on it be-
cause my baby is growing in a nor-
And with this, may God be praised!
mal way. It was my choice wheth-
er I would focus on our baby’s
growth or the hemorrhage. During
our household after I shared about
this, Sis Jaymee, my servant lead-
er said, “Just like in our lives, it’s
either we focus on the bad things
that take place or on the great
blessings that come”.
It was June 18, 2017, Fathers’ day,
when the OB revealed that the
hemorrhage was totally gone.
Again, God has showed me that
no matter how much I fail Him, He
5
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

ey Beyond 30 Why Serve?

T he Jou rnory )
ivine Gra
By: Sis D FL-AUH)
ce By: Sis Rhoda Datinguinoo-Antonio (CFL Dubai)

(A sister’s st (S

Have you ever thought or awesome. (KFL heartchamps

feared that love will never
find you? As I turned 33 to-
day, I tried to look back on
the last years where I be-
lieved I was “running away
from and after something.”
Until I found myself in awe-
some wonder—and made
the 30 realizations about
chasing, running away and
after and waiting for LOVE
of a 30 something sister.
Disclaimer: This is a com-
pilation of random quotes,
verses, thoughts (own and
others) that inspires me.
Hope it will do the same
work for you.
1. Love is ageless.
2. Do not settle for one-sided
love. One day, you will have
someone who can love you
the way you deserve to be
loved.
3. There is more to love and
life than to have romantic
dinner dates.
4. Someday you will find
your forever person, but until
then, use the time you have
now for yourself (and grow in
spirit).
5. Pray to God to soften your
heart, so that it beats for who
it should beat for.
6. When you decide to live
a pure life, don’t expect the
world to understand your de-
cision. (many will question it,
but live it anyway).
7. You might not be in a re-
lationship for now, but it
doesn’t mean you are loved
less.
8. When you date, be true to
your reasons.
9. And date only a man who
is also pure in his intentions.
10. Anyone who turns you
down doesn’t realize the val-
ue of a prayerful woman.
11. You are worthy of love and
always remind yourself of it.
12. You are someone worth
knowing.
13. One day, someone is go-
ing to make you feel like
waiting so long for love was
worth it.
14. Discern for what vocation
you are really called to.
15. Be part of a service! It’s
rocks!)
16. Protect your heart, it is
beautiful.
17. Don’t look for a man who’s
willing to die for you, be-
cause there was already one
who did- JESUS.
18. Sometimes your hardest
No today, is your greatest
YES in the future.
19. There is beauty in waiting.
Don’t settle for what is avail-
able.
20. For me, there is no such
thing as right love at the
wrong time; because true
love always comes in a per-
fect time.
21. Fall inlove with Jesus,
there is no heartbreak with
Him.
22. There is no timeline for
anything in life.
23. Learn to wait, because
the more you wait, the more
you’ll appreciate what you’re
going to get.
24. Experiencing God’s love
and being in love with Him is
the best love story ever.
25. Remember, you are a
daughter of a King.
26. Every good and perfect
gift comes from above.
27. The more you grow in
your love for Jesus, the more
you will look for someone
who loves Jesus.
28. Happiness cannot be
traveled to, owned, earned or
worn. It is the spiritual expe-
rience of living every minute
with love, grace and grati-
tude.
29. Life is a gift, wake up ev-
eryday and realize it.
30. Be loved, Beloved. (Ro-
mans 9:25)
Never fail to pray my dear,
and let your prayers, even
your standards, and all your
heart’s desires be made
known to Him. And when
you ask for “someone,”
pray fervently and wait
patiently. Keep your faith
game strong even when
your prayers remain unan-
swered. Because remem-
ber, it is God’s perfect time,
not yours.
Believe that God will, be-
cause God can.
F ebruary of 2014 when we first attended the CLS,
that’s when I started hearing the word “SERVE” in the
most number of times ever in my life.
In our “past life”, my term for our life before CFFL,
my idea of service is only for the priest, nuns, lay min-
isters, our grandmas attending the earliest morning
mass, ladies wearing all white and veils on their heads
but there is a want in me to be one of them, except
that I am still young, thinking that I could only do that
when I retired from work and where I have nothing
left to do or worry about.
Then the “calling” came. We graduated from CLS very
much excited and inspired because of the people we
have encountered. After that, the weekly household
came right after. I remember our household servant
saying “Being in the household is one of our services
to the Lord”. We will come there to pray, share and
talk about each other, laugh and eat (then eat more…)
and it’s already service? Wow, that’s easy and fun at
the same time!
I came to realize that indeed it was a service, for I am
offering a very small portion of my time in praising
and worshipping Him. Instead of spending our Thurs-
day nights on malls, on the comforts of our bed or
with friends, we got more excited and looked forward
on weekly households.
The service did not stop on weekly household, it grew
more. As our service grows, our faith deepens. Every
time we are asked to any kind of service in the com-
munity, we can’t explain why we can’t say “No”. Serv-
ing Him more is not easy at all. There will be obsta-
cles, it will consume more of our time, it will cost us
some money, it will use our rest day... etc.
“ But these are just excuses. If we acknowledge Christ
in our lives, we will see that this time, money,
comfort and everything else that we have belongs
to Him and there is no better way to consume
it but with Him and for Him.”
I am a servant not because I am asking for something
in return but to purely thank Him. Yet God is so great
for He would still repay us more than we could hope
for. I realize now that I don’t need to wait for old age
or to retire from work to serve Him.
I can do it now and will do it as long as God wanted
me in His servant’s list.

6

W
e didn’t meet by chance, we met by faith. God
chose us to experience His great love and grace during
the World Singles Congress 2018. We are set apart to
celebrate His holiness, to proclaim His praise and to love
and to be loved by Him.
Read on to know our journey as my fellow first timers
share their experiences in the blessed SFL event.
Q1. How was your first WSC?
“It was a life changing experience.” -Sis El El Santo (SFL
Abu Dhabi)
“Sobrang saya! Very inspiring yung mga talk. Ang ganda
ng mga activities at feel na feel ko from the very start
palang yung blessings at ang pagmamahal ng Pangi-
noon sa akin.” -Bro Jed Jacolbe, (SFL Dubai)
“My WSC experience is indeed a great one. I reflected
with all the things that happened in my life. I was broken
but still blessed because God picked me piece by piece
and made me whole again to become a better version of
myself with His grace and mercy.” -Sis Ruby Policarpio
(SFL Fujairah)
“WSC 2018 was very exciting, inspiring and fulfilling. Ma-
feel mo talaga how the Lord loves us so much even in
our imperfections.” – Sis Michang Paderes (SFL Dubai)
“Attending the WSC is an incredible and enjoyabke ex-
perience. You really learn and relate to all the talks.” –
Sis Diane Pamintuan (SFL Abu Dhabi)
“Exciting, enjoy and happy because we had the chance
to meet other SFL not only from the Philippines but
around the world.” -Bro Brylle Lacasaca (SFL Fujairah)
“Being there the first time was absolute privilege for me.
I was in awe of so many participants who have come
from all over the Philippines and some from other coun-
tries. I guess I can say that I’m experiencing the uncon-
ditional love and outpouring blessings of our dear Lord
during the congress. Now I got to tell, I’m definitely
coming back…” – Sis Glecy Merino (SFL Abu Dhabi)
“It is unforgettable because I have many realizations be-
fore., during and after the WSC. These realizations made
me a better and mature person when it comes to my
personal relationship with the Lord. I knew and I felt His
presence during our entire congress-comforting and as-
suring that everything is handled.” – Sis Karling Signo
(SFL Al Ain)
“Indeed, my first WSC is undeniably soul-driven expe-
rience. That moment in your life when everything is un-
comfortable and will lose all your patience, but still you
will choose to keep moving forward in pursuit of God’s
call.” -Sis Rei Moises (SFL Abu Dhabi)
“First time maka-join sa WSC at looking forward na at-
tend ulit. Unforgettable and unexplainable feeling.” -Sis
Lea Salabao (SFL Dubai)
Q2. What was the most unforgettable experience you had
during the congress?
“Hearing those professed faith and life experiences of
our brothers and sisters in Christ. How God touches their
7
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
Chosen G
Our First World Singles Cong
lives and how God changed them into a person that God
want them to be. That’s was absolutely amazing. Every
sharing testifies that God works miraculously. I was
touched and I will never forget those. I will treasure it as
I will serve our God too.” – Sis El El
“When we solemnly bow down and pray to the Blessed
Sacrament. It made me cry and reflect to all His great-
ness and the unconditional love to each and every one.”
– Bro Jed
“The Worship Night. I felt His presence embracing me
(Nakakaiyak sa saya!) at yung mga talks from session 1
to 3 at sharing na tagos sa puso and it all inspired me.
“ – Sis Ruby
“Walkway of Grace. Iba yung feeling when you reflect
to Him, iba yung pakiramdam pag kasama mo Siya. His
love never fails. He changed me and leads me to con-
tentment. Thus, I am so blessed.” – Sis Michang
“The Opening Night, when they officially welcomed all
the delegates. At the moment it sinks into my mind that
This is it! I am finally attending the WSC because I was
only imagining how would it be before. My heart was
just filled with happiness and excitement.” – Sis Diane
“Sharing and Walkway of Grace” -Bro Brylle
“One of my most unforgettable experience was find-
ing myself captured by the life story of Bro Charlie. He
shared with humor while narating his story that every-
one laughs from time to time but I was really moved
and inspired that I felt my tears fell down while listening
to him. He shared how his life turned 90 degrees after
welcoming God into his life and I quote “Yung dating
pinupuntahan kong inuman, ngayon naging household
na at yung dating sugalan, ngayon naging fellowship
na.” -Sis Glecy
“I love the praising/worship part every session. It is so
powerful that all my unspoken prayers are turned into
singing, praising and glorifying His Holy Name.” – Sis
Karling
“Every praise and worship.” -Sis Rei
“Yung Worship Night at when I said YES TO THE LORD
during my tongues. I eventually cried hard for what
happened na di ko maintindihan kung bakit. Hindi ko
maintindihan ang ibang words during my tongues pero
ramdam na ramdam ko ang pagmamahal Niya sa akin.”
– Sis Lea
Q3. What is your one-liner mant ra after the WSC?
“I am God’s daughter made by His likeness and I am
destined for greatness.”- Sis El El
“I am not lucky, I am blessed.” – Sis Michang
“Believe in His greatness for all things are possible.” –
Bro Jed
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

Generation: Slow down. Don’t rush

this waiting time.
Your worth is more than gold. Sometimes, you
gress but definitely not Our Last forget about this truth when you insist on want-
ing things done at the time you want. Yes, you
are most precious and most loved. Embrace this
truth right now and slow down. Don’t rush this
waiting time. Don’t give in too easily. Don’t as-
sume too quickly. Don’t let others tell you what to
do. Stop comparing and don't let your insecurities
break you. Don’t let the world dictate you. Don’t
let your social clock pressure you. For now, slow
down and don’t rush this waiting time.

For now, pursue Christ above all in this waiting

time. For now, focus on what He wants from you
and pursue whatever it is He is entrusting you.
The present moment is the best time to learn
“I will keep my “*fork*” because there’s a lot of best things more, to grow more, to trust more, to pray more,
to come with His grace and glory.” -Sis Ruby to love more. Remember that in your waiting, He
is working. For now, slow down and don’t rush
“Kahit pa minsan pakiramdam mo hindi ka kapili-pili, PINILI this waiting time.
ka parin ng Diyos dahil mahal ka Niya.” – Sis Diane
When you pursue Christ above all, you can be
“We are chosen to love even if we are broken.” -Bro Brylle certain that in His most perfect time, the man who
He has meant for you will come. In this perfectly
“I am chosen to be loved by God, infinitely.” -Sis Glecy orchestrated time, this man will be "man enough"
to present himself to Christ. This man will find you
“I am His beloved, no amount of unworthiness can separate right in the very heart of God. This man will be
His love for us.” – Sis Karling very sure of his love for you. This man will pursue
Christ above all knowing that it is only through
“Perfect.” -Sis Rei Him that he can win you. He will fight for you and
he will be brave enough to commit his life to you.
“Worry less and be blessed because God chose us.” -Sis Lea He will love you with nothing but the Love that
comes from God.

------------------------------------------------------------------------ But for now, slow down. Don’t rush this waiting
time. Focus first on the heart of Christ and find
My first WSC experience was amazing, it is like God was yourself in His love. In all your praying, listen well
talking to me directly through the people who shared their to His call. In all your waiting, pursue Christ above
experiences about God’s unconditional love. all. For now, slow down and don’t rush this wait-
My most unforgettable experience was the Walkway of ing time.
Grace, God made me reflect to His words and made me re-
alized that despite my unworthiness, my mistakes, my flaws,
and my imperfections, He chose me and He will always be
with me to guide and love me through it all.
And, I do not have to worry because I am His beloved.
It may be our first but definitely not our last, we are loved
by God through the people we met, through His works and
His ways, thus, we experienced His greatness. I am grate-
ful for being in this community. I learned through each and
every talk and proclamation that His people delivered. I am
thankful for my imperfections, despite those, I am loved,
cared and kept by Him. I am amazed by His ways, I learned
that all His creations are special in different aspect.
This WSC 2018, we learned a lot that we will treasure as
we continue to serve Him and His people because greater
things are yet to come.

God Bless SFL UAE!

Answers gathered by Sis Kayla Michelle A. Conception

(SFL Abu Dhabi) x

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Fork *- This is a term used by Fr. Warren Puno during the WSC which means: to be still, FROM: THE LOVE PURSUIT Facebook Page
to stay still, to keep the ground. by Sis Eloisa Aguila (with her approval.)
Shared by: Sis Kayla Concepcion (SFL Abu Dhabi)

8

World Singles Congress 2018
CHOSEN: Destined for Greatness
By: Sis Kayla Michelle A. Concepcion (SFL Abu Dhabi)
Knowing more about God was the
best decision I made last year by
joining the SFL community. There
may be challenges and harassments
but God is greater than any of those.
I encountered Him many times
through the people I meet every sin-
gle day. The values and teachings of
His words made me of who I am to-
day. It really changed me a lot for the
best of what I can be.
The eagerness of my soul to know
more about Him leads me to join
the World Singles Congress 2018
in Davao City. Before the congress,
I really have no definite idea what
will happen but my excitement was
surreal. Just one thing I was sure of,
that I will encounter God through His
words, His works and His people.
With this year’s theme: CHOSEN:
Destined for Greatness, in 1 Peter
2:9 “but we are a chosen race, a
royal priesthood, a holy nation and
a people of His own”, He gathers His
people in one nation to celebrate
His holiness. Many are called but
few are chosen, and I am very grate-
ful to be one to have witnessed His
gloriousness during the weekend.
Sharing with you some of these in-
spirations delivered during the talks
that our God spoke to my heart in
this year’s WSC.
TALK 1: CHOSEN TO OFFER by Bro
Dylan Reyes
“When we encounter the Lord, we
live the best life ever…because He
chose us.”
When I let the Lord enter my life and
seek Him with all my heart, I know I
am living the best life ever. My per-
spective in life has changed. Before
I met Him, I used to worry a lot, even
simple things, but now, I know He is
molding me to be the person
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
He wants me to be.
“God is choosing us every day, He
chose you, He will take care of you.
You are where you are now because
God brought you there with a pur-
pose, know that it will lead you to
where He wants you to be. Some-
times, it’s hard to understand His
ways, we often felt disappointed and
get hurt by the way He teach us. He
took the people who are dear to us,
but little did we know that they are
not meant to be in our lives. He took
them away to let the right people in.
The process may not be as easy as it
seems but God wants us to learn to
listen to His words, for His ways are
way better than ours.
In Romans 5:8 in a Letter of St. Paul,
“God showed His love for us in that
while we are sinners, Christ
died for us. “
Despite of our unworthiness, His love
is unconditional, He will always be
there for us. He will never leave us.
He sacrificed His own son to save us.
That is true love, a genuine love any-
one could hope for.
“Who can separate us from the love
of Christ? Nothing. There is nothing
could separate us from the love of
God, but the Satan will never stop
to steal, kill and destroy the truth.”
There maybe harassments and chal-
lenges but the love of God will stay
and will never fade away.
God chose us and love us so much
because we are His beloved. We are
worth loving. His love is everlasting,
always there and it stays.
And, we are Set Apart, because “we
are special, we are His favorite, we
are His masterpiece and we are set
apart to be Holy.”
And, we are Destined for Greatness,
9
for our hearts are made of His image
and His lightness.
“All your heart desires, all your
prayers, if it is according to His will
and it’s the best for you, He will bless
and grant all of those.”
In return of His blessings he has giv-
en us, as our response to the Lord,
we must…
Offer our Dreams- “All our dreams,
plans, aspirations should be surren-
dered to the Lord to be blessed and
use it to glorify Him even more. “
Offer our Desires- “Let our desires
rest in the Lord.” According to St.
Augustine, “Our hearts are restless
until it rests in God.”
Even though how big and wonderful
our plans are, if it is not the will of
God, it will never happen the way we
wanted it to be.
Offer our Deeds- “When you offer
your acts to the Lord, He will em-
power you, He will make you capa-
ble and He will make things possible
for you.”
We tend to worry about our future
but if you lift it all to God, you will be
at peace. You will not worry about
tomorrow would bring. Before, I used
to be anxious about little things and
even my future, what will happen to
my life years after years, if it will be
as progressive like others? But the
moment that God is in my daily life,
my worries were gone. My worries
turned to hope and strengthen my
faith to Him.
My Dear, Let God fill the emptiness
in your life.
TALK 2: CHOSEN TO LOVE by Sis
Sabrina Gasgonia
“What areas in your life that needs to
be FIXed?”
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

Upon hearing that question, I began
to ask myself what really are those
areas in my life that needs to be
fixed?
First, FAILURES AND FEARS
At times, we are haunted by our fail-
ures in the past and our fears, and we
began to question ourselves about
our worth in receiving an uncondi-
tional love of Christ. Are we really
worthy enough to be loved by Him?
My answer is Yes.
“The reality of God’s love of who He
is greater than any weakness you
ever experienced and is greater than
any pain you’ve been through your
life.”
“Whether things are working out for
you or not, whether things are taking
time, whether if you are drowning
what seems to be a mess in your life,”
Remember, in Book of John 16, The
Lord says, “It is I, Do not be afraid.”
Second, INSECURITIES AND SELF-
ISHNESS
” Because of our insecurities, we re-
ject ourselves, our insecurities make
us forget that we are God’s master-
piece.”
As a young adult, I still have my in-
securities within myself, sometimes
I compare myself to others why like
that and this but God never fails to ferent ways, we may not always no-
make me feel that I am loved and ap- tice what our God is doing into our
preciated by the people He has sent lives but He is preparing us to be-
to me, and He always remind me that come worthy to enter His Kingdom.
His creations are all “fearfully and There is real beauty in the broken,
wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). we may look negatively at a certain
“From the Book of Isaiah 43:1, Keep it situation because we get hurt, we
in your heart as He tells you, “I have are crushed, we are broken but our
called You by name, you are mine.” God is always there to pick us piece
Upon hearing those words, the feel- by piece.
ing of exhilaration filled my soul. I am
called by God because I am His. “Despite of our brokenness,
God still continuously loving us...”
Third is X- the wrong decisions,
deeds, and grave sins” The Lord
Broken things can become blessed if
know what you are going through in
we let God do the mending
your life, we can’t hide from Him.” Sis
We may be broken in any aspect,
Ina mentioned the gospel last Ash
having cracks in our lives is God’s
Wednesday from Joel 2:12-13, “Re-
way to lead us to greatness. When
turn to me with your whole heart.
we lift our all to Him, He will make us
Return to the Lord, your God, for
whole again.
gracious and merciful is He.”
Whatever we have done or have
” There are times, circumstances and
sinned, the Lord will always accept
people that make you feel that you
and love us because we are His be-
are unworthy, but always remember
loved. Submit your strengths and
that despite your unworthiness, God
weaknesses to the Lord, surrender
is offering His arms for you… because
your worries, insecurities and fears.
to Him, you are worthy to be loved
Give it all to Him, He knows what He
and to be kept.”
is doing in our lives.
Trust God’s process, it will never be
easy but with Him, everything will be
TALK 3: CHOSEN TO BE GREAT by
worth it.
Bro Julius Eguia
God is using our brokenness for us
We are chosen though broken and with the
to discover our way to His greatness.
grace of God, we are Destined for Greatness.
We are all chosen to be great in dif-

WSC: WORLD SINGLES CONGRESS - Is the yearly gathering of all CFFL-Singles for
Family and Life members (open to non-members too) in one place. To pray,
WSC
worship, fellowship, get to know other faithful single men and women. Every year has
a theme and every year is assigned to the diffirent city in the Philippines. UAE has its
version to this, as an Echo Conference to those who aren’t able to attend.
Its called UAESC. This year its held in Abu Dhabi.

DO NOT BE ANXIOUS with your favorite colors.”

By: Sis Maria Amafel Abad (SFL Dubai)
Philippians 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but
in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiv-
ing, present your requests to God.”
Worrying cause stress and drained your energy. I’ve re-
alized I forgot to live in the present moment and I was
worried to everything.
I talked to Him. I prayed to God and surrendered every-
thing to Him and felt His embraced. I just sudden realize
that life is so short and worrying is just consuming a part
of my life. I’ve learned to live my life to the fullest and
being responsible with my own happiness, it is within.
I should not depend my happiness to my outside envi-
ronment, I should not depend it on other people and to
material things.
Further, Life is short for resentment, envy, hatred and
other negative thoughts. I respect and understand that
other people have their own battle to deal with. I remem-
bered the excerpt Khaled Hoseini’s novel Kite Runner:
“Children aren’t coloring books. You don’t get to fill them
Not only children but all people aren’t coloring books. I
cannot fill them with my favorite colors. People have their
own characteristics, skills, weaknesses and strengths. I
cannot push things the way I want to be.
Time is ticking. I have to forgive even they are not sorry,
I will show my love to people who are important to me,
no time for despair and worry.
As Paulo Coelho quotes in his book, Aleph:
“Past and future exist only in our memory. The present
moment though, is outside of time, it’s Eternity. It isn’t
what you did in the past that will affect the present. It’s
what you do in the present that will redeem the past
and thereby change the future.”
“To live is to experience things, not sit around pondering
the meaning of life”
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for
tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough t rouble of its
own.” - Matthew 6:34
May God be Praised!

10
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

CFFL
Music
Ministry
(Abu Dhabi)

The Minist ry (Service) of Music

M inistry of Music is a SERVICE to God (Psalm 100:1-2). It is not something that
Biblical Origin of Music
we do for ourselves. We worship him whether we feel like it or not, whether we
feel blessed or not. Music is something that we do for God. We worship God in • When God Founded the earth,
Music because God is most worthy to be praised. Singing praise and worship while he was working, there
songs is a direct service to God. It’s actually singing to God. was a background music (Job
38:4-7 “while the morning stars
• Ministry of Music is not just an opportunity to develop one’s talents and skills sang in chorus and all the sons
• It is not playing music for the sake of pleasure and personal fulfillment. (It re- of God shouted for joy”) Music
quires sacrifice and commitment) started with God through eter-
nity. God Loves music.
• It is not spiritual opportunity for glamour , prestige and popularity . (We are
servants not masters) • As early as Genesis 4:21 there
was Jubal Whose name means
• It is not something “I have to do” because of my gifts and talents “sound”. He is eighth in line
• It is not talent oriented, not ability oriented, not even music oriented. Ministry from Adam and is said to be
of Music is God Centered. If it is to be true worship, then it must be acceptable, “The Ancestor of all who play
pleasing and glorifying to God. the lyre and the pipe.”

• In Kind David’s time we see

Minist ry of Music is a Service to the CFFL Community organized singers and musi-
cians (Levites) ministered day
• It is to support the community in praise and worship. The songs to be sung and night in the tabernacle and
and the style to be used should be those that the whole community should be later in the temple ( !Chr 9:33,
able to participate in the worship of God. It means setting aside your prefer- 15:16,27, 16:4-6, 23:2-5, 30-31,
ences in beat, style, volume or arrangement for the sake of the common good. 2Chr5:12-14, 20:20-30

• It is not call attention to itself

• It is to keep the community musically alive. Learn and teach new songs regu-
larly. Discern the songs that are most helpful to the spiritual life of the communi-
ty. The music ministry should be able to choose the right song at the right time. Collected and Shared by:
Sis Jenny Agsoy-Vidanes.

11
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

LEt’s Play!
Find the following words
by: Sis Mavic Arnoza
(SFL Dubai)

Live Chirst Share Fujairah

Christ Family
Christian Life Seminar Prayer
Mama Mary Dubai
Rosary Holy Spirit
Ajman Altar
Abu-Dhabi Worship
Song Book Jesus
Love Al Ain
Liturgical Gospel
Sharjah Umm Al Quwain
Bible Life
Messiah Music
Holy Mass RAK
Guitar Philippines
Light

12
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

* the community photo ga

Do you wa
HH, Teachi
Service & other c
activitie
#CF

LIKE &
our Fac

www.facebook.com

13
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

allery IBC
Meeting
201h8abi
Abu D
UAE
2018
Ma ch
r

ant to see your

ing, Fellowship,
church & community
es photos on
FFLTVM?

& PM us on
cebook Page.

m/cfflthevineyardmagazine/

International Body of Counselors (IBC) consists of Continent Coordinator

(CoCs) and the Diaspora Coordinators (DCs) which act as counselors to the Servant
General (SG). The IBC meets w/ the SG once a year, on rotation basis in the different
countries represented by IBC members. This year they are in our home - in the UAE.

14
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

CFFL-HFL Echo Congress 2018

BELOVED DESTINED FOR GREATNESS
By: Sis Salve Aldeguer (HFL Sharjah)

T he event was spirit filled and all were excited seeing each other again
after the HFL congress held in Sharjah in 2017. It was made more meaningful
by series of talks and sharing in between specially the one on one discussion
as sort of buddy system was very rewarding. Knowing you will have a regu-
lar sister praying for you in the community. in the Congress, I can conclude
that HFL are dearly beloved by God and we are never alone. God is there in
victories and in pains. HFLs are the modern-day prophets, set apart, God’s
dearly beloved and destined for greatness.

The ambience of the event was warm and friendly, feeling like home with
extended family in this part of the world. The food was pleasurable, the
intermission numbers by sisters from Al Ain was fun and inviting to dance
with them.

We thank the service team of Abu Dhabi for organizing such a huge gath-
ering.

Praise and Glory to God.

UAE HFL Congress 2018

“You are Destined for Greatness ”

By: Sis Tess Divina (HFL, Al Ain, U.A.E)

Having this annual event, it brings
the HFL Servants of the Lord under
one roof to equip every member to
be more effective and better ser-
vants. A One-Day event to meet
new friends and catch up with the
old ones!
F illed with inspirational speakers,
great entertainment and bountiful
delicious food. Some of them came
to the congress to testify how being
part of the community has opened
them to the religious life. Life will
not always go according to your
plan and there will be times you
will experience heartache, pain and
disappointment. We all go through
tough times, but we don’t have to
get stuck. We should always be
determined to become stronger
than our struggles. To our Sisters
who shared their testimonies, thank
you very much … you moved us into
tears. We were all inspired to a
higher level of unselfish love.
in the scripture --- Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the thoughts that I
think toward you, saith the LORD,
thoughts of peace, and not of evil,
to give you an expected end.”
This amazing day has united us in
worship, prayers and thanksgiving.
Thank you Lord for keeping us all
bonded in Christ.
To the Service Team, we know
the huge effort to make this event
successful. Thank you so much in
putting together the reunion. To
all participants, we pulled together
to have great celebration and awe-
some day. Applause to us!
Luke 1:38
“And Mary said,
"Behold, the handmaid of the Lord; may
it be done to me according
to your word."
And the angel departed from her.”

Life is an amazing journey. We

have all a special purpose in life.
Discover it and use that life to bless
others --- that’s what God has des-
tined you for greatness! As written
We hope to see you all again. Do
not miss the opportunity to be part
of this very important annual event.
To God be the Glory.

15
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

UAE HFL Congress – 25 May 2018
By: Sis Jing Navarro
BELOVED – Destined for Greatness
Being a team lead for this event, made myself feel
“butterflies in the stomach”! It was full of questions,
doubts and anticipations. Sleeplessness nights and
troubled minds are my enemies at that time.
But the power of prayer made me stand still to be
calm and prepared as God whispered in my hearts.
As HFL called BELOVED – Destined for Greatness, we
said our big YES!... to do God’s mission spreading His
mighty words and works.
Our sincere gratitude to the speakers, sharers and
emcees for their wisdom and courageous experienced
that made us laugh and cried and gave us an inspira-
tion.
Our dear SFL sisters/ brothers and Music Min who
offered their time as our service team. The marvelous
stage decoration that amazed everyone!
HLF- Al Ain sisters who lead us to dance with energet-
ic steps in “Dahil Sayo”.
HFL sisters from other Emirates who participated in
the event was really happy and enjoyed with full of
spirit and love. Even we parted our ways feeling so
much exhausted, yet everyone still smiling and danc-
ing to happiness.

With the great efforts and cooperation of HFL – AUH Truly, nothing is impossible with God when you put all
sisters, hand and hand we divided and deliver our as- your trust in Him, He will lead you to the right path as
signed task with great service. He lead us in the successful event.

Praise God, for sending our missionary, Dona Culala as HFL great team, BELOVED, Destined for GREATNESS!
an instrument, leading to the full event of the con-
gress, from the smallest to biggest part of the pro- May God be praised!
gram.

WHC: WORLD HANDMAIDS CONGRESS - Is the yearly gathering of all CFFL-

Handmaids for Family and Life members to gather in one place. To pray,
C
WH worship, fellowship, get to know other. UAE has its version to this as an Echo Conference
to those who are not able to join. Its UAEHC. This year Abu Dhabi is the host.

16
‘

The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

The Shack
by: Sis Bennelyn Castañeda (SFL Abu Dhabi)

Have you had any experience in your life where you this tragedy in his life as such he became not only more
distant to “Papa” but also to his wife and remaining
think God was not with you? Especially during the most
kids. Until one day, he saw the letter in the mailbox that
difficult times?Have you ever questioned God why
changes his life and his faith.
things fell apart? Why things didn’t go as you planned?
Why you need to experience all those challenges?
In this movie, the Triune God was depicted as three sep-
arate people; Papa – who in this movie was a woman,
Most of us, if notsome,experience loss, anger, fear and
Jesus - the carpenter and the Holy Spirit who is repre-
hatred.These emotions sometimes consume us and live
sented by a woman named Sarayu. Here, Mack opens
us stuck in one area of our lives where we thought we
up to each of them that would allow him to mend his
can never recover or redeem ourselves.
relationship with them. By allowing Mack to trust, judge
less and forgive he was able to put closure to his grief.
At this stage, this was the same crisis that Mackenzie
“Mack” Philips is dealing with. Mack, an average fami-
Trusting God for all the things that are or has happened
ly-man married to Nan Philips who has three beautiful
to us is a way where we can totally surrender ourselves
children, Josh, Kate and Missy.
to Him. Trusting the process of forgiving those who
wronged us may take time. However, if we practice and
Mack has dealt difficulty with his drunken and abusive
pray and trust our Lord, we will be able to set ourselves
father while growing up. At this point of his young life,
free, move forward and appreciate more of the things
he was already distant to God.Even though Mack had a
& people that we still have, just as Mack did in the end.
rough childhood, he still manages to be a good husband,
father and a church-goer. He still occupies a pew every
“...if anything matters then everything matters. Because
church day even if he did not really participate much. His
you are important, everything you do is important. Ev-
life changed on one camping trip that was supposed to
ery time you forgive, the universe changes; every time
be his time with his kids.When Josh and Kate met an ac-
you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world
cident in the lake, Missy was abducted by someone who
changes; with every kindness and service, seen or un-
is killing little girls. As the police has tracked the sus-
seen, my purposes are accomplished, and nothing will
pect’s whereabouts, they only found her blooded dress,
be the same again.”
but Missy was nowhere to be found.
- William Paul Young, The Shack
As the time passes, Mack was unable to recover from

17
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

The way to be Blessed

Excerpts from a Philippine an angel of God stopped him. Abraham also saw a
Newspaper & Shared by ram caught in a nearby thicket. The ram was killed and
Sis Marylou Ugad burned instead of Isaac.
(SFL Abu Dhabi)
Take note what the angel told Abraham, “I swear by
myself, declares the LORD, that because you have
done this and have not withheld your son, your only
W hen Sarah finally gave birth to Isaac, we can imag-
son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants
as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on
ine how precious the boy was to Abraham. After all,
the seashore.”
Abraham had waited 25 years and was 100 years old
when he first set eyes on this promised child.
Don’t stop there. The angel continued, “Your descen-
dants will take possession of the cities of their enemies,
Isaac must have been a teenager or a young man when
and through your offspring all nations on earth will be
God told Abraham, “Take your son, your only son,
blessed, because you have
Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Mori-
obeyed [God].”
ah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of
the mountains I will tell you about.” God may very well
Do you see now how to be a blessing to others? It starts
have said, “Do you see your son over there? Your dear,
with obeying God’s call to surrender all that takes first
beloved Isaac? The delight of your eyes and the joy of
place before Him, i.e. our Isaacs. Then God will not only
your heart? I want you to bring him to Moriah and kill
bless us, He will use us to bless the people around us.
him. Not only kill him, but burn off all his flesh.”
On the other hand, when we refuse to put God firmly in
I don’t know about you, but I would shoot back, “Are
the center stage of our hearts, we
you kidding, Lord?” The same “Are-you-kidding?” tone
could not be as effective as He wants us to be. God
as I told Lucy, “Why not reimburse ourselves?” Isaac
loves my Isaac more than I do. That is, He cares for my
symbolizes whatever is most near and dear to our
welfare more than I possibly can.
hearts.
Therefore, I am to let go of my pathetic strategy of
Perhaps Abraham had grown fonder of Isaac than of
hoarding wealth. This does not mean that I become fi-
God. For me, my own well-being was my Isaac. I want
nancially irresponsible. Rather, on a deeper level, I have
to lead a comfortable and worry-free life. Who doesn’t?
to let go of the treasonous notion that since I cannot
But because of deep disappointments in the past, I
count on God to take care of me, I have to look out for
struggle with trusting God. My main strategy was to
myself.
possess as much cash as I can. Hence, my reluctance to
be generous, even to his needy brethren.
I believe God is teaching me the reverse. I repeat: He
cares for me -- my future, my welfare, my career, ev-
God tolerates no rivals. This would explain why He
erything about me -- more than I possibly can. By let-
gave Abraham this seemingly harsh (not to mention
ting go of my self-centeredness, we became a blessing
murderous) command. God wants to excise from the
to this person.
man’s heart an unhealthy attachment to the boy. Sim-
ilarly, He wants me to be free from the love of money
Who or what is your Isaac? For me, it was personal se-
and be content of what I have. I am in constant danger
curity through money. For you, it may be your job, your
of being greedy, which would be idolatry. Thus, often-
relationships, your intellect and talent, or your ambi-
times, God corrects me by giving me opportunities to
tions and longings.
give, to offer, to sacrifice. He is training me to rest my
security on Him, not on a fat bank account. WHEN God
told Abraham to sacrifice his dear son Isaac, he (Abra- But when we release our Isaacs, God releases blessing,
ham) did not say, “Are you kidding, Lord?” Neither did which are not only for us, but also for our
he drag his heels, haggle for an extended deadline, or spouses, our children, our extended families,
offer a substitute. our neighbors, our co-workers, our churchmates
and indeed, for the world.
Early the next morning, Abraham set out with Isaac to-
wards Moriah. The journey took three days, plenty of
time for Abraham to change his mind. But his obedi-
ence was unwavering and absolute. Upon arriving at
the site, Abraham built a wooden altar, laid Isaac on it,
and took the knife to slaughter his son.

Make no mistake; he was going to do it! Not, “Well,

Lord, ummm... here I am, about to slit Isaac’s throat…
If You really don’t want me to do it, now’s the time to
say so… You really don’t want this, huh, Lord?... I’m still
waiting, Lord...” At the precise moment when Abraham
was about to kill Isaac (whether by thrusting the dag-
ger into his chest or slitting his throat, I am not sure),

18

Katoliko kaba?
By: Sis Jenny Agsoy-Vidanes (CFL Abu Dhabi)
I was caught in a beautiful passage of John, it’s a fare
well address and goodbye speech of Jesus when he said
in John 17:20 - 21 May they be one father as you and I
are one. Isa sa pinaka malaking iskandalo sa ating mga
alagad ni kristo ay ang pagkakawatak watak naten ngay-
on. na iisang kristo ang tinatawag naten pero hindi tayo
magkasundo sundo. Hindi tama at hindi kalugod lugod sa
panginoon. Yung mga taong humihiwalay kay kristo ay
kawan padin ni kristo. If we are created by our Trinitarian
God, we should be an instrument of unity not division.
Dahil ang kasangkapan ng pagkakawatak ay kampon
ng demonyo. Ang diyos ay iisang diyos sapagkat sya’y
nagkakaisa - tatlong persona pero kumikilos bilang isa
at etong pagkakaisa nato ay dapat naten taglayin. kung
tayo ay larawan, kung tayo ay image and likeness ng
panginoon.
Hindi naman pwedeng maging tao ang tao kung siya’y
nagiisa. Sabi nga sa awit walang sino man ang nabubu-
hay para sa sarili lamang at walang sino man ang mama-
matay para sa sarili lamang. Hindi matututong magkapa-
katao ang tao kung hindi sya marunong makipagkapwa
tao at ang pakikipag kapwa tao ay hindi namimili ng re-
lihiyon at lahi, Kung ako ay katoliko at may kapitbahay
akong muslim at hindi ako marunong makipagkapwa tao
sa kanya hindi ako tunay na katoliko.
Unity doesn’t have to be uniformity. Hindi kailangang
magkapare pareho ang isip ng tao para magkaisa. Ang
pagkakaisa ay nagsisimula sa respeto alang alang sa pag-
kakaiba. Some people will reject us but it doesn’t mean
that we will reciprocate the rejection. Kaya mahirap mag-
ing katoliko kase dapat handa kang maging martyr and
be a living witness to the risen Christ. Ang patotoo sa
kristong muling nabuhay ay hindi naman isang libingan
na walang laman kundi ang mga alagad na dapat sana ay
nagkawatak na pero nagkaisang muli at muling nabuhay.
Parang tayo na naging patotoo and be a living witness as
body of our Lord Jesus Christ!
Jesus established our Catholic Church, It is the Lord who
built it and only the Lord will defend it. We just need to
submit ourselves to the Lord as we are part of the body
of Christ. It is what it means to be a Church. To be Cath-
olic is to believe that God loves the whole world. He did
not come for the righteous he died for the sinners. What
I can be proud of now is that I am a sinner but in spite of
the fact na makasalanan tayong tao ay pinili padin tayo
ng diyos na maging kasangkapan nya para sa kaligtasan
ng mga kaluluwa. To be catholic is to be universal. To be
Catholic is to be inclusive. To be catholic is to be open
minded. To be Catholic is to believe that God loves not
just Catholics.
Praying that we may be consistent in following Jesus to
the road of Salvation.
19
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
Unanswered
Yet
F. G. Burroughs, 1879
Scripture: Psalm 143:1; Luke 18:1
1.
Unanswered yet? The prayer your lips have pleaded
In agony of heart these many years?
Does faith begin to fail, is hope departing,
And think you all in vain those falling tears?
Say not the Father hath not heard your prayer;
You shall have your desire, sometime, somewhere.
2.
Unanswered yet? Though when you first presented
This one petition at the Father’s throne,
It seemed you could not wait the time of asking,
So urgent was your heart to make it known.
Though years have passed since then, do not despair;
The Lord will answer you, sometime, somewhere.
3.
Unanswered yet? But you are not unheeded;
The promises of God forever stand;
To Him our days and years alike are equal;
“Have faith in God”; it is your Lord’s command.
Hold on to Jacob’s angel and your prayer
Shall bring a blessing down sometime, somewhere.
4.
Unanswered yet? Nay, do not say ungranted;
Perhaps your part is not yet wholly done;
The work began when first your prayer was uttered,
And God will finish what He has begun.
If you will keep the incense burning there,
His glory you shall see, sometime, somewhere.
5.
Unanswered yet? Faith cannot be unanswered;
Her feet were firmly planted on the Rock;
Amid the wildest storm prayer stands undaunted,
Nor quails before the loudest thunder shock.
She knows Omnipotence has heard her prayer,
And cries, “It shall be done,” sometime, somewhere.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) From the Editor’s File.
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
Blessed
Beyond Measure
By: Bro. Allan & Sis Ching Polina
(Family Ministry Servant - Abu Dhabi)
W e are so blessed, thankful and grateful to God to be
part of this CFFL community. During our talk and during
prayer meetings, we always shared that we couldn’t
imagine our lives if we did not have this God’s communi-
ty…an imperfect community of imperfect people gradu-
ally trying to be good every day as we are all God’s work
in progress, with God’s grace to become holy. Through
this community, it draws us more closer to God, deep-
ens our faith with the Lord towards this life’s journey full
of blessings, mysteries and uncertainties. Not knowing
what will happen tomorrow yet we are certain that God
is always there for us and He will never leave us.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be st rong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of
them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you; He will
never leave you or forsake you.”
Through this community, it strengthens not only our
spousal relationship but our family relationship as well
due to the various KFL activities for the kids. These KFL
fun-filled activities draw these kids more closer to God
(opposite to what the world is offering them), mak-
ing these kids know more about Jesus in a wonderful,
cheerful, colorful and beautiful ways, teaching the kids
to take care and love the mother earth, take care and
love other kids and other people as well. Some of the
2018 KFL activities were Family Day 2018 Destined for
Great Love and Service (Feb 2018), Little Nature’s Keep-
er (let’s show our love for the environment-March 2018),
I am a Loyal Friend (Jesus is my Best Friend-April 2018),
Bringing Out the Best in Each Other (May 2018) and the
recent one in June 2018, The Great Adventure (UAE Kids
Conference 2018). After the activities, we can see their
happiness on their faces as they happily and innocently
showed to us their tokens like the friendship bond, keys,
rosary bracelets, etc.
One time, we were amazed because Karsten and
20
Khyron told me “Mommy we will wear our rosary brace-
lets so that we can show it to our classmates”. We are
so grateful and thankful to the service team for their un-
tiring and selfless service and love to our kids. For using
their God-given talents so that not only the kids, the par-
ents as well, will continuously be amazed by the won-
ders of God’s great love for all of us.
Truly, this community is from womb to tomb. After the
KFL, the next stage will be the Youth who will be part
of the YFL ministry. There are also a lot of YFL activities
which are unceasingly drawing our youth more closer
to Him, teaching the importance of family, loving the
people around them, nourishing their young minds with
the most important things in life amidst this complicated
and busy world. We are so blessed to be part of this min-
istry of molding our youth to a life of great adventures,
rising above, grander dreams and a life of purpose with
the Lord. The next stage will be the single life which will
be part of SFL ministry then CFL ministry for married
couples. We are so grateful and thankful for the SFL ser-
vice team together with the KFL, YFL and SFL Coordina-
tors for selflessly serving our kids, youth and SFLs all for
God’s honor and glory. We are thankful also for the Svfl
ministry esp the HFL ministry for the continuous
guidance and spiritual nourishment
of our sisters whose beloved
husbands are there in the Philippines.
Praises and thanks to You our
Great God for giving us Your
CFFL Community, truly a
blessing for all of us…
Blessed beyond measure!

A true love can bear the longi-
tude of waiting even if it takes
forever. When confused about
love, follow your heart, it may
not always be right, but you will
have the memories that make
you smile. If your head tells one
thing and your heart tells you an-
other thing, before you decide,
you should first think whether
you have a better head or a bet-
ter heart. It’s okay to kiss a fool or
let the fool kiss you. But never let
the kiss fool you. Don’t find love
let love find you. That’s why it is
called falling in love because you
don’t force yourself to fall, you
simply fall. Never be ashamed to
show love when you feel it be-
cause one day, you might realize
that love is already to show itself
to you.
To love someone is to have the
courage to walk away and to
let go the other one who wishes
to be free, no matter how much
it hurts. Never say “I Love you”
when you don’t even care. Nev-
er talk about feelings, when they
are not there. Never touch a heart
when you mean to break it. Nev-
er look in the eyes if all you have
to say is lie, and never say hello if
you mean to say goodbye.
In the game of love, it doesn’t
matter who will win or lose. What
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE
From the Editor’s desk
Love struck
position
credit to the owner of this piece.
is important is that, you know
when to hold and even to let go.
It’s the presence of the soul that
makes you live. If your heart gets
broken by the time you truly love,
don’t let go of the love for the
person. But let go of the person.
You’ll never know love might be
sweeter the second time around.
It’s hard to find true love because
people are too caught up looking
for the perfect person. They don’t
realize that love does not find the
perfect person but being perfect
to someone else.
Love knows no reason, love
knows no lie, love differs all rea-
son, love has no eyes, but love is
not blind. It can see but it doesn’t
mind. We are sometimes afraid to
say “I love you”, instead we say
“I miss you”. But often misunder-
stood leaving the one you love
in which you don’t realize he/she
feels the feeling that you do. It’s
not hard to pretend to love some-
one that you do really love. Once
you have loved, you will always
love. For what’s your mind may
escape but what’s on your heart
will always remain forever.
Love is not how to get but rather
how to forgive. It’s not how you
listen but how you understand.
Not by what you say, but by what
you do. Not by what you receive
but by what you can give. True
love wants a person to be happy
even if you won’t be the one that
the person will share his/her hap-
piness with. If you love someone,
don’t hold back. Never hide your
feelings; never economize your
love and most of all never take
the person for granted because
21
you will never value what you
have, ‘til it’s gone. Sometimes we
think that loving someone can be
such a risky thing. But how else
would you win if you don’t take
chances?
Never try to impress someone to
make him/her fall in love with you
for it never runs out. Let love be
the one to look for you, so that
when you start to fall, you will
know the feeling is sure. Yes! It
drives you crazy, it makes you
mad, jealous, sad, it even causes
you sleepless nights, breaks your
heart. Well is it healthy to fall in
love? True love is not when the
heart beats faster or fastest, but
when it beats no more and yet
the love is still there. If you have
reasons why you love the person,
then you are using your mind.
However, if you love the person
with no reason at all, then you are
using your heart.
Love is not a word to say when
we feel guilty, a right word when
we like the person, but love re-
ally matters when we share our
thoughts, minds and our hearts
with that someone we really love.
How do I say goodbye to some-
one I never hold? Why do I fear
to fall to someone who was never
really mine? Why do I miss some-
one I was never with? Why do I
love someone who’s love was
never been truly mine?
Don’t be too good; I might miss
you. Don’t be too caring; I might
like you. Don’t be too sweet; I
might fall. It’s hard for me to love
you when you won’t love after all.
6

“Fotoquotetoh”
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

A collection of photos from one soul

Do you love taking photos? Do you want to share them?
Make it more share worthy by adding scriptures on it and email us @ cfflmedia.uae@gmail.com

This issue’s photo collection is from:

Sis Kayla Michelle Concepcion of SFL Abu Dhabi

ato? Gusto mo
M ah ilig ka ba ng kumuha ng litr
M ag em ail sa :
ba ng ma kit a yu n dit o sa TVM?
m
cfflmedia.uae@gmail.co

FYI:
Foto*Quote*Toh

*Foto - Photo
*Quote - Scriptures
*Toh - Mine
(My photos with scriptures.)

22
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

“Pag-ibig” “SAAN AKO TUTUNGO?”

Ni: Sis Marylou Ugad (SFL Abu Dhabi)
By: Sis Marylou Ugad (SFL AUH)
Saan ngaba tutungo ang tao? Bagaman alam ko na, kung ano
Pagibig kaya o Pagmamahal ang mahalaga Dito sa Mundong kinagagala- ang haharapin ko,
Sa taong ang puso’y puno ng ligaya wan ko Lakas ng loob para sa kinabu-
Pagmamahal ang alam kong dapat ay manguna Maraming balakid, at kapaligi- kasan ko,
Upang walang ligalig Masaya ang masa rang magulo Patutunguhan ko’y malayang
Ngunit ang tanong, may patu- pook na sinilangan ko.
Ang banal na aklat daw ay sa 'ting bumigkas, tunguhan ba ako? Kay hirap sabihing tama ang
Itong pag-ibig ang siyang natatanging wagas, pinatutunguhan ko
Ang pag-ibig din daw ang tumutupad sa batas, Nag-iisa, nag-iisip kung ano Pagkat alam nating walang
Kapag naghahari, sa kasamaa'y ligtas. ang maaring gawin, perpekto sa mundo
Mga bagay, pangarap na kay Ngunit isa lang ang nakakaka-
Ang pag-ibig daw ay nakatanim sa Puso, hirap abutin, lam sa lahat ng eto
Kahit di diligin, to'y kusang tumutubo, Marami pang problema ang Kungdi ang Dyos, na syang
Mula sa pagkasanggol, sa ati'y sinubo, kailangang kayanin, gumagabay at nagmamahal sa
Kay daling matutunan kahit walang guro. Mga pagsubok ay dapat nating tao.
harapin.
Labis ang daig kung ihambing sa pag-asa, Dalawang daan, ang kailan- Ako’y may tanong sa bawat isa
Pati na rin sa 'ting pananampalataya, gang pagpipilian, sa inyo?
Subalit ang mundo'y sadlak sa pagdurusa, Ang tuwid na daan at makipot Tinanong moba sa sarili mo
Ang aking isipan ngayon ay nagdududa. na daan, kung saan ka tutungo?
Tuwid na mayroong bangin sa Landas na tama, na naaayun ba
Ang pag-ibig ba ay buhat sa isang ibig? dulu-dulohan, a gusto mo?
Mula sa ating pagsilang, nais ang hilig, Makiipot ma’y sa tamang lan- O landas kung saan at baluktot
Pagkain at kalinga ay tuwina ang tinig, das naman. na daan mo?
Kapag di nakamtam, iyak ang maririnig. Ngunit, ako’y nalilito kung saan
ako patungo, Hindi man madali ang maging
Sa tuwid na daan ba o sa mabuting Tao
Itong pag-ibig, tanging sarili ang kapit, makipot na ito, Hindi rin naman madali ang
Makapangyarihan at minsan ay malupit, Hindi ko na alam kung ano ang makisama sa kapwa ko
Sa pag-asa't pananampalataya'y lagging sam- gagawin ko! Ngunit kung sadyang ang loob
bit Bahala na sa sarili kung saan mo’y totoo
Tiwasay na isipan at kapayapaa’y makakamit gustuhin ko. Gumawa ka ng mabuti ang
Aking mga paa’y napapagod Dyos ang magbibigay ng re-
Pagibig ng Dyos sa ati’y kaylanman di kukupas na’t nanginginig pa, galo.
Pagibig ng Tao sa Kanya Nawa’y lagging wagas Buong katawan ko ri’y
Kapag kapwa tayo’y umiibig ang palagid ay mababagsak na, Saan ngaba ang tao tutungo?
maaliwalas Ngunit ayaw pang sumuko ng Sa langit ba or sa tinatawag na
Mula sa Diyos, pagmamahal na di kukupas aking mga mata, Impyerno?
Na kahit madilim ma’y lakad Mahirap sabihing tama lahat
Pagibig ang dahilan kung bakit may masayang parin at pilit kinakaya. ang nagawa mo sa mundo
tahanan Nagpapasalamat ako sa Sapagkat sa huli Dyos ang
Pagibig din ang simula ang maayos na samahan pinagtunguhan ko, makapagsasabi nito
Pagibig naway lagi kang Manahan
Pagibig ng Dyo’s Ama, huwag nating kalimutan
TULA , TULA . . .
ikaw ba ay galing sa mga tala?
“Angels” May mga tinatagong TULA ka ba? Tula tungkol sa buhay, sa
By: Sis Eleanor Llanes (HFL Dubai) pag-ibig, sa pananalampataya... Huwag na mahiya! Ipahiwatid
ang iyong puso at ipadala ang inyong mga tula para malathala.
Tears may fall every night
Mag email sa cfflmedia.uae@gmail.com
There is hope, just hold on tight
Angels are there to give you light
They’re beside you even out of sight
When you are feeling down
Love for God everything. But you have
By: Sis Kristyl Mabano forgotten.
You’re still a princess who wears the crown That someone has sacri-
(SFL Abu Dhabi)
Please always smile and do not frown ficed His life in the cross,
Angels will make you happy and send you
The world may change,
a clown To redeem our sins and
People will come and
Dangers are always on the way give us everlasting life.
some will go.
Do not be afraid and just pray Angels will Let your love for God
Opportunities may seem
save you everyday change the world,
endless,
Will keep you bright even skies are gray
Life is great and some-
Time may come that you will worry But never let the world
times not.
Decision making should not be a hurry change your love for
You are blessed and
Be calm and and do not feel sorry God.
loved, You have
God’s angel will make you merry.

23
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

The Community’s
Celebration to our 37th
The Poetic Side

Anniversary!

LIST OF WINNERS
DISCLAIMER: This list is not complete. We tried
our best to gather the complete name but missed
The Poetic Side

them till the cut off. We will try again to share the
complete one on our next issues. Congratulations
everyone!

***

Basketball Men - Green Team

Volleyball - Red Team

Scrabble - Sis Diana Tadia (CFL AUH - Green)

Badminton Women - Sis Jel & Jona (SFL AUH)

Badminton Men - Bro. Jed (CFL)

The Poetic Side

Darts - Tito Ed Marquez (SvFL)

Table Tennis Men - Ed Ladignon (CFL Sharjah)

Table Tennis Women - Sis Fides Ladignon (CFL

Sharjah) & Sis Gemma (SFL Dubai)

Cheerdance - CFFL Abu Dhabi

***
The Poetic Side

24
 The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

#Selfie with
The Vineyard Magazine
*credits to the owners
Thank you everyone om
Fr past

for sharing your pictures!

e
th TVM
# ues
iss

GUSTO MO BANG MAKITA

ANG LARAWAN MO DITO SA #TVM?
Selfie & Groupie with #TVM is open to all!
Simply take a picture of the latest The Vineyard Magazine issue as a selfie our a groupie and
send it to cfflmedia.uae@gmail.com or message us on our
Facebook page - TheVineyard - CFFL Magazine.

25
The official magazine of Catholics for Family and Life - UAE

UAE SVFL CONGRESS 2018

Unleash the Power.
Held in Dubai, UAE. This congress for our SvFL brothers has four talks,
with speakers: Tito Arsie, Bro. Paul, Tito Ed & Bro. Darrelle.

26
 When we have a relationship, it is
easier for people to TRUST us.

When we have relationships, it is

easier for them with WORK with us.

When we have relationships,

it is easier for us to CORRECT them.
#BusinessofBuildingRelationships

Frank Padilla (Servant General)

Destined for Greatness
Echo Conference, Abu Dhabi 2018