Thy Kingdom Come!

November 18, 2011

Friends of FIP,

I encourage all FIP members that we take advantage of our annual meeting, which will be January 16 to 19, 2012 in Romeoville, Illinois (in the Diocese of Joliet), and that we invite other colleagues, directors of formation institutes or programs, whether at the diocesan, regional or national level, so that they enrich themselves, and enrich us, with their participation. | read more

A Brief Summary on the Collegeville National Symposium on Lay Ecclesial Ministry

FIP President’s Note:
By Reynaldo Montemayor Jr. PhL.
President of the FIP
Director of Pastoral Institute - Diocese of Laredo (TX)

September 21, 2011

FIP’s recent participation at the Collegeville National Symposium on Lay Ecclesial Ministry made manifest its leadership since many Hispanic leaders present at the symposium were and/or still are FIP members! We met old friends and made new friends at the symposium, and we hope to see them again at our annual FIP meeting in January 2012! And thanks to their leadership and faith in our organization, FIP was named and called upon for about 5 of the 86 proposed recommendations towards the end of the symposium, and though none came up as one of the final 5 recommendations, FIP may be implied in 2 of them that mention “the need for further dialogue with representatives from culturally diverse groups about the cultural implications impacting lay ecclesial ministry formation, certification, and authorization” and “a need for cultural sensitivity within the certification process”. | read more

By Reynaldo Montemayor Jr. PhL.
President of the FIP
Director of Pastoral Institute - Diocese of Laredo (TX)

First of all, we congratulate His Excellency, Bishop Felipe Estévez, a friend and episcopal consultant of FIP, for his nomination as titular bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine, Florida. I hope with a filial spirit that he continue accompanying and granting his friendship and support to the FIP, and in spite of his new obligations. Either way, on behalf of the FIP, we are grateful for his pastoral companionship and direction in our meetings and processes. And as a friend and consultant, his guidance and paternal counsel will be filially solicited as we may be in need of it. | read more

During the Easter season we celebrate our passing from darkness into light — from death into life. The Son of God has ransomed us through His blood so we may find our way back to the Father. Jesus restored the life of unity to which we have been destined from our creation — unity with God, creation, and one another. In the resurrection of Jesus, we find a new way of life — a life of harmony and love which reflects the communion of the Trinity. The resurrected Jesus calls us to transform everything that divides the human community. We celebrate Easter when we embrace one another as brothers and sisters in God.   | read more

Amid sorrow, an expression of God's love

As we start this Lenten season, I had the opportunity to enjoy the show “Les Miserables” performed by the students at Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford. Both the dedication and energy of the young people in the show as well as Victor Hugo’s work have been a source of inspiration as I reflect on the power of forgiveness in our lives. | read more

This week, January 2-8, we commemorate National Migration Week.  The observance of National Migration Week began over a quarter century ago by the bishops to provide Catholics with an opportunity to celebrate the wide diversity in the Catholic Church and the contributions of immigrants and refugees.  Renewing Hope, Seeking Justice is the primary theme for this week.  Under the umbrella of Hope and Justice, the Bishops calls us to reflect on the stresses and strains that migration has on families. | read more

Baby Jesus has always had a unique place in my family, particularly as we prepare to celebrate Christmas. It was my grandmother who gave my parents their first Baby Jesus. With great dedication my mother dressed the image which remained covered until Christmas Eve. Following the tradition, my mother gave my brother’s family their first Baby Jesus. Now, my nephews and niece praise the Holy child with carols and kisses—as I used to do when I was a child. | read more