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Free Lessons at Mountain Creek
Snowboarding has been on my list of activities to do for a long time so when I saw an open invitation
to Mountain Creek with BLD Singles, I didn't hesitate to say yes. Excitement started to build up weeks
before as I imagined myself traveling down the mountain with ease, throwing in a few tricks here and
there even though I was a novice. As the days leading to the trip approached, I began to feel anxious
and wanted to back out. My sister Danah and I didn't have the equipment but somehow, all these were
offered to us literally the night before thanks to a few friends in community. I felt comforted in the fact
that we had people who were looking out for us. Maybe I was meant to go on this trip after all.
The day of, we met up with our group which consisted of a few BLD members, friends of friends and
members of Priests for Life. They were: Alyssa St. Ana, Patrick McGrail, Stevie Olaso, Rashed
Espejon, Enric Cairme, Joshua Cruz and others.Stevie and Pat stayed behind to teach Danah and I the
basics of snowboarding. It took a lot of sacrifice on their part to give us their time and patience for the
next few hours. In theory, everything was understood but in practice, all that was taught got crushed
beneath me every time I fell. I was still determined to take the lift up the mountain to see if I had better
luck with the slope up there. As it began to slowly ascend, I was preparing myself mentally for what
was to come. When we got to the top, I marveled at the view and thought, maybe I could just stay up
here for a while...or forever. Wasting no more time and especially because I was hungry from all the
physicality, I descended down with Stevie's help and encouragement. It wasn't easy for the both of us. I
began falling every few seconds and moving in one direction, creating a visual line graph on the
mountain that factored in time and declining effort. At one point, I fell so hard I thought I was done for,
but then I heard Stevie's voice which I may have mistaken for an angel's and it was enough to get me
moving until I finally made it to the bottom. I went from feeling discouraged to hopeful and wanting to
do more.
At the end of all this, what I've come to learn is that with any community whether it's faith based or
activity based, no one gets left behind. Everyone is striving for something bigger and wanting to
become better people. Everyone wants to help and are eager to teach what they know for others to
share in that joy of whatever it is they are experiencing. And for those learning, it takes a lot of faith
and trust in others to put into practice what was imparted to them. It becomes this beautiful cycle
propelled by hope and love. Most importantly, falling happens all the time no matter what level you're
on but the more we really strive to become better versions of ourselves, we fall less and less but we're
never perfect. Be courageous and step out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to fall and don't be
afraid to let others help you. This may seem corny but in a way, snowboarding became a metaphor for
life.
It also made me think about the Word of God and all his promises. It is something we want to share
with others and it's something that we want to live by in the hopes of something bigger and better.
Going to these events and having fellowship outside BLD worship nights, builds community and
allows for us to practice our virtues with one another. Come join us on our next adventure! Thanks for
reading and God Bless You All!!!!!!!!!
Special Thanks to Alyssa, Stevie and Pat!!
Snowboarding has been on my list of activities to do for a long time so when I saw an open invitation
to Mountain Creek with BLD Singles, I didn't hesitate to say yes. Excitement started to build up weeks
before as I imagined myself traveling down the mountain with ease, throwing in a few tricks here and
there even though I was a novice. As the days leading to the trip approached, I began to feel anxious
and wanted to back out. My sister Danah and I didn't have the equipment but somehow, all these were
offered to us literally the night before thanks to a few friends in community. I felt comforted in the fact
that we had people who were looking out for us. Maybe I was meant to go on this trip after all.
The day of, we met up with our group which consisted of a few BLD members, friends of friends and
members of Priests for Life. They were: Alyssa St. Ana, Patrick McGrail, Stevie Olaso, Rashed
Espejon, Enric Cairme, Joshua Cruz and others.Stevie and Pat stayed behind to teach Danah and I the
basics of snowboarding. It took a lot of sacrifice on their part to give us their time and patience for the
next few hours. In theory, everything was understood but in practice, all that was taught got crushed
beneath me every time I fell. I was still determined to take the lift up the mountain to see if I had better
luck with the slope up there. As it began to slowly ascend, I was preparing myself mentally for what
was to come. When we got to the top, I marveled at the view and thought, maybe I could just stay up
here for a while...or forever. Wasting no more time and especially because I was hungry from all the
physicality, I descended down with Stevie's help and encouragement. It wasn't easy for the both of us. I
began falling every few seconds and moving in one direction, creating a visual line graph on the
mountain that factored in time and declining effort. At one point, I fell so hard I thought I was done for,
but then I heard Stevie's voice which I may have mistaken for an angel's and it was enough to get me
moving until I finally made it to the bottom. I went from feeling discouraged to hopeful and wanting to
do more.
At the end of all this, what I've come to learn is that with any community whether it's faith based or
activity based, no one gets left behind. Everyone is striving for something bigger and wanting to
become better people. Everyone wants to help and are eager to teach what they know for others to
share in that joy of whatever it is they are experiencing. And for those learning, it takes a lot of faith
and trust in others to put into practice what was imparted to them. It becomes this beautiful cycle
propelled by hope and love. Most importantly, falling happens all the time no matter what level you're
on but the more we really strive to become better versions of ourselves, we fall less and less but we're
never perfect. Be courageous and step out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to fall and don't be
afraid to let others help you. This may seem corny but in a way, snowboarding became a metaphor for
life.
It also made me think about the Word of God and all his promises. It is something we want to share
with others and it's something that we want to live by in the hopes of something bigger and better.
Going to these events and having fellowship outside BLD worship nights, builds community and
allows for us to practice our virtues with one another. Come join us on our next adventure! Thanks for
reading and God Bless You All!!!!!!!!!
Special Thanks to Alyssa, Stevie and Pat!!
Immaculate Conception Feast
Today Dec. 8 is the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrated in the Roman Catholic and other Christian churches. From the moment of her conception, by the Grace of God Mary was preserved from the stain of Original Sin. Mary had to be sinless for Jesus to inherit a sinless nature. Lita Alfaro
Posted on December 8, 2015 |
Committed Disciples
Congratulations to the following singles who completed the requirements for commitment were anointed last December 4, 2015. They have completed two out of these three teachings: Basic Bible Study (BBS), New Creation Realities (NCR), and Growth in Prayer (GIP). Also, attended the Introduction to Commitment. From left to right: Salami Aglibut, Molly Brillantes, James Santiago, Camille Loreto, John Cam, Kathryn Fajardo, John Estrella and Marielle Go. The rest of the singles who completed the same requirements were unable to attend the anointing. They will be anointed at a later date. These are Stevie Olaso, Liz Ortiz, Kyle Abinales, Julius Lizardo and Nicole Tse. |
In Memory of Kuya Rudy
We fondly remember our beloved Kuya Rudy Luyao. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let the perpetual light shine upon him. And may the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. |
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"Rest In Peace Kuya Rudy." "We'll miss you Kuya Rodolfo Ginger." "Kuya Rudy.. Thank you for your love and guidance. I will miss you." "Will miss you Kuya Rudy. Thank you for showing us how to serve with a joyful heart." "Thank you Lord for Kuya Rudy and for allowing us to encounter him and for his heart of service. We will miss you, Boo." "Rest in peace Tito Rodolfo Ginger." "He will live on in our hearts and prayers." "We thank the Lord for all the memories with you Kuya Rodolfo Ginger. You will be remembered in our prayers. Eternal rest Kuya Rudy!" "Kuya Rudy we will miss your cheerful smile and great love for the Lord." "It still saddens me to know that we lost a beautiful soul. I will remember your smiling face, loving and caring heart for others, & devoted service to the BLD community. It was a pleasure knowing you Rodolfo Ginger. You will be missed dear friend." "Kuya Rudy you will be missed." "Joining you in praying for Rodolfo Ginger's eternal rest." "It's sad to see you go but we know you are in the comfort of the Lord's embrace. Our prayers and love to you"
If you would like to add an image or quote to the memorial, please email it to [email protected] with the subject “Kuya Rudy”
If you would like to add an image or quote to the memorial, please email it to [email protected] with the subject “Kuya Rudy”
Soup Kitchen at the Missionaries of Charity – September 26, 2015
The Singles ministry are very grateful for the opportunity in serving the poor of the poorest of Newark at the missionaries of Charity. In Matthew 25:40 it is written “whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren you do it for me”. The singles had the blessing of doing the work of The Lord here on earth feeding His children.. The class of SE 33 & SE 34 along with their class shepherds & other singles prayed together, prepared the food, served and cleaned up the place. We thank you Lord for blessing our hands to feed your children. Truly God is in our midst in this missionary work. How blessed we all are. We thank you Lord Jesus. We love you.
Lita Alfaro
Posted on September 26, 2015
The Singles ministry are very grateful for the opportunity in serving the poor of the poorest of Newark at the missionaries of Charity. In Matthew 25:40 it is written “whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren you do it for me”. The singles had the blessing of doing the work of The Lord here on earth feeding His children.. The class of SE 33 & SE 34 along with their class shepherds & other singles prayed together, prepared the food, served and cleaned up the place. We thank you Lord for blessing our hands to feed your children. Truly God is in our midst in this missionary work. How blessed we all are. We thank you Lord Jesus. We love you.
Lita Alfaro
Posted on September 26, 2015
Prayer Healing #1
On June 13 & 14, 2015, some members from the singles ministry attended the Prayer Healing #1 at Divine Mercy Church. Emotional, spiritual and physical healing continues. This retreat strengthens our faith and were able to identify the wounds, roots of bitterness, the law of sowing and reaping, forgiveness and many more……..
Here is what Marielle Rose Go has to say:
“Everything happens for a reason.” We often hear or even use this cliche statement. Cliche as it is, I found myself deeply reflecting on this statement while on the retreat. The two day retreat journey gave me a broader view why God allows us to experience pain. It helped myself pin point those thoughts of the past that used to be blind burdens – thoughts and emotions that were felt but were constantly pushed aside. The retreat made me understand also how God was present in all my struggles back then as I reflect on how I survived all those challenges. So i encourage everyone to take the healing retreat, but your heart must be open for you to understand things”.
Lita Alfaro
Posted onJune 22, 2015
On June 13 & 14, 2015, some members from the singles ministry attended the Prayer Healing #1 at Divine Mercy Church. Emotional, spiritual and physical healing continues. This retreat strengthens our faith and were able to identify the wounds, roots of bitterness, the law of sowing and reaping, forgiveness and many more……..
Here is what Marielle Rose Go has to say:
“Everything happens for a reason.” We often hear or even use this cliche statement. Cliche as it is, I found myself deeply reflecting on this statement while on the retreat. The two day retreat journey gave me a broader view why God allows us to experience pain. It helped myself pin point those thoughts of the past that used to be blind burdens – thoughts and emotions that were felt but were constantly pushed aside. The retreat made me understand also how God was present in all my struggles back then as I reflect on how I survived all those challenges. So i encourage everyone to take the healing retreat, but your heart must be open for you to understand things”.
Lita Alfaro
Posted onJune 22, 2015
Singles Encounter #34
“Victorious weekend”
Last May 23-25, eighteen young adults namely Cristina Aldecoa, Fernando Faura, Jezreel Gaudiel, Ryan DeLeon, Abigail Fabe, Jiezhelle
Lizardo, Anthony Ryan, Meldrick Umahon, Renato Andoy, Andrew Reyes, Erika Reyes, Adriana Reyes, Justin Lucero, Deliana Arias, Angela Crisafulli, Stephany Urzua, Justin Reyes and Justin Victorino said yes to a weekend with God at Graymoor Spiritual Life center. They could have been somewhere else doing their usuals but God handpicked each one of them and brought them together. The weekend was facilitated by Molly Brilliantes, Patrick Mcgrail, Alyssa Sta. Ana, Paolo Nolasco and Jennifer Ompod. Aside from the facilitators, Deacon Serge was also present as their spiritual director. It was an event full of emotions, which was very visible on the participants’ faces. The weekend was victorious with the help of the auxies, praise members, and most especially the sponsoring class, SE 33 who were once on the same spot with the eighteen participants 6 months ago.
SE 33 with the guidance of their class shepherds, Tito Danny and Tita Cora Labung made it possible that everything “behind the scene” was in order. SE34 is likewise blessed with the guidance of their class shepherds, Tito Lito and Tita Elaine Fernando.
The weekend showed God’s amazing grace by gathering people. Without His divine intervention, the weekend wouldn’t have been a success. Let’s continue to pray to the Holy Spirit for the newest addition to the Singles Ministry. Thank you Lord! You deserve all the glory and honor.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Life is Beautiful.
By Marielle Rose Go
Lita Alfaro
Posted on May 29, 2015
“Victorious weekend”
Last May 23-25, eighteen young adults namely Cristina Aldecoa, Fernando Faura, Jezreel Gaudiel, Ryan DeLeon, Abigail Fabe, Jiezhelle
Lizardo, Anthony Ryan, Meldrick Umahon, Renato Andoy, Andrew Reyes, Erika Reyes, Adriana Reyes, Justin Lucero, Deliana Arias, Angela Crisafulli, Stephany Urzua, Justin Reyes and Justin Victorino said yes to a weekend with God at Graymoor Spiritual Life center. They could have been somewhere else doing their usuals but God handpicked each one of them and brought them together. The weekend was facilitated by Molly Brilliantes, Patrick Mcgrail, Alyssa Sta. Ana, Paolo Nolasco and Jennifer Ompod. Aside from the facilitators, Deacon Serge was also present as their spiritual director. It was an event full of emotions, which was very visible on the participants’ faces. The weekend was victorious with the help of the auxies, praise members, and most especially the sponsoring class, SE 33 who were once on the same spot with the eighteen participants 6 months ago.
SE 33 with the guidance of their class shepherds, Tito Danny and Tita Cora Labung made it possible that everything “behind the scene” was in order. SE34 is likewise blessed with the guidance of their class shepherds, Tito Lito and Tita Elaine Fernando.
The weekend showed God’s amazing grace by gathering people. Without His divine intervention, the weekend wouldn’t have been a success. Let’s continue to pray to the Holy Spirit for the newest addition to the Singles Ministry. Thank you Lord! You deserve all the glory and honor.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Life is Beautiful.
By Marielle Rose Go
Lita Alfaro
Posted on May 29, 2015
Singles Encounter
"I had an amazing experience. I got to moderate for the first time and I got to meet other people. I was happy seeing how Newark did Singles Encounter and how we can incorporate that in our SE. The encounter was very spiritual and I'm glad we were a part of it." "This was my first BLD retreat from Newark. Coming from DC, it was truly humbling to watch the Newark Singles Ministry serve. We were welcomed and felt right at home!"
Singles Encounter Weekend Retreat
The Singles Encounter (SE) is a spirit-filled, weekend-long retreat sponsored by the Bukas Loob sa Diyos Covenant Community focusing on the special and unique needs of single Christian men and women with the purpose of helping participants discover a stronger faith in self, others, God and community.
Under the guidance of the Rev. Paul J. Lehman, the retreat is led by a number of SE graduates. In talks delivered over the course of the weekend, these graduates draw from their life experiences and their relationships with God to speak of our need for God and for others, and to testify to the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Before and after each talk, participants have the opportunity to reflect, share, and pray. We’ll also be fervently praying for you! Our hope is that each person who attends is touched by the grace of God.
Singles Encounter is held twice a year at the The Graymoor Spiritual Life Center.
If you want to learn more about our Singles Encounter please contact us to get more information.
SE #33 – November 7 – 9, 2014
"I had an amazing experience. I got to moderate for the first time and I got to meet other people. I was happy seeing how Newark did Singles Encounter and how we can incorporate that in our SE. The encounter was very spiritual and I'm glad we were a part of it." "This was my first BLD retreat from Newark. Coming from DC, it was truly humbling to watch the Newark Singles Ministry serve. We were welcomed and felt right at home!"
Singles Encounter Weekend Retreat
The Singles Encounter (SE) is a spirit-filled, weekend-long retreat sponsored by the Bukas Loob sa Diyos Covenant Community focusing on the special and unique needs of single Christian men and women with the purpose of helping participants discover a stronger faith in self, others, God and community.
Under the guidance of the Rev. Paul J. Lehman, the retreat is led by a number of SE graduates. In talks delivered over the course of the weekend, these graduates draw from their life experiences and their relationships with God to speak of our need for God and for others, and to testify to the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Before and after each talk, participants have the opportunity to reflect, share, and pray. We’ll also be fervently praying for you! Our hope is that each person who attends is touched by the grace of God.
Singles Encounter is held twice a year at the The Graymoor Spiritual Life Center.
If you want to learn more about our Singles Encounter please contact us to get more information.
SE #33 – November 7 – 9, 2014