Renovated Balingog United Methodist Church Photos courtesy of Pastor Adiel de Pano of Santa Ana Methodist Church
Part I of II
“WE were sent here to search for the light of Easter in our hearts, and when we find it we are meant to give it away generously. Maybe it is the role of the artists and mystics to attend to the seeming emptiness about us and find incredible riches there.” – John O’Donohue, Ph.D, in Philosophical Theology, 2015
In that role as artists, we go among the trees, the rice fields, the corn plantations we see stretching beyond the horizon, seeming endless in riches. We breathe in the serenity of the green farm, the blue skies and the warm winds caressing our cheeks as we ride through Balingog, Nueva Ecija.
In that place of seeming abundance of crops, one gets confronted with torn and dilapidated church building and dearth of bathrooms for families to use.
The Filipino Caucus Foundation, now in its 50thyear of existence in the USA, donated funds to renovate the Balingog East United Methodist Church, once with missing sheets of roofing, bare, and allowing rain through its exposed slats of wood frames.
The parishioners are 95% farmers, with young families, and although they banded together to aggregate their savings to support rebuilding, it will take another decade to give the church new roof, new walls, new windows, new fans, and new church pews.
With funds donated by the Filipino Caucus Foundation, the church was restored to its former glory, and in addition, ten bathrooms, gravity fed, composting the waste, as eco friendly toilets, were constructed. Each bathroom is currently used by ten family members, and in total, a hundred folks use them, daily. Think of some gravity fed toilets in some national parks that you have visited in the US.
Imagine if you were one of these farmworker families – wouldn’t your sense of dignity and trust in humanity increase when strangers enable your faith worship and daily comfort? Much better than your own abilities and capacities, even if threaded together, can achieve?
It makes me recall the story of 15 sakadas who were recruited from the Philippines by the Hawaiian Sugar Planters Association in 1906 to work in the sugar plantations of the United States. The plantation camps where they lived were crowded and provided minimal amenities.
Despite those hardships, they banded together to deal with the harsh working conditions and with their exceptional work ethic, persevered. That intersecting memory with the present conditions of rice plantation workers in Nueva Ecija, with the critical need for working toilets, compelled me to write about this foundation.
For half a century, these Filipino Methodists have collaborated and perhaps could not sit still to enjoy their lives in America unless they can contribute to others’ sense of peace.
The best of humanity
“We are made to be in community. We are poorer by our inability to come together in person. Although zoom is a platform of choice, this is a poor substitute for gathering. Mental health became a leading issue [during the pandemic].” – Pastor Adiel DePano, 2023
The pandemic did not shrink the fulfillment of this foundation’s mission. With sustained energies, now in its 50th year, this organization that he leads, supports four core programs: Christmas Institute, Faith Festival, Philippine Fiesta, and Philippine Mission.
Nearly 800 attended the Concert ‘Stories behind the Songs’
The concert, ‘Stories behind Songs’ showcased Dodjie Simon, winner of two Metro Pop competitions: 1997 Second Place (If I Could) and 1999 Grand Prize (Can’t Stop Loving You).
His repertoire that night included ‘Can Find No Reason,’ ‘Ikaw Lamang’, and movie themes for ‘Dysebel’, ‘A Mother’s Story’, ‘Tatlong Mukha ng Pag-ibig’, ‘Ang Lahat ng Ito Pati Na’ng Langit, ‘Kung Aagawain ang Lahat sa Akin’, and ‘Nagsimula sa Puso.’ He was effusive in sharing his muse, Elisa who is his wife.
Dodjie Simon and Dr. Elisa Simon
Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, national artist of the Philippines, gave a recent review of Quesada’s 40thanniversary concert in Manila, September 3, 2023: “Odette Quesada’s concert was so outstanding in many ways: great songs, great singing voice, strong stage presence and personality and best of all, straightforward, no gimmicks and pretenses, no production numbers, no unnatural sounding script, with a very easy gait and pacing (tapos ang warm pa ng audience). Odette is a natural – ang galling ng communication skills, very sincere and spontaneous and walang sinasanto. Nakakatawa siya just being her natural self – kaya very endearing siya.”
Equally endearing to the audience was Quesada when she performed at Asuza Pacific University on August 12, 2023. The audience roared with loud applause, as she walked onstage, dressed simply in all black shirt and pants. They sang along with her, these popular hits: ‘Till I met you’ (1983 Metropop Grand Prize winner), ‘Growing Up’ (Bagets Movie), ‘To Love Again’, ‘A Friend of Mine’ and ‘Give Me a Chance.’ She invited the community to join her, a community karaoke almost, with swaying hands in the air, and with Odette on the piano, and a few songs, accompanied by Dodjie Simon.
Pastor Adiel DePano with Odette Quesada and Brenda Faye Reyes DePano
Their interplay and dialogue made for a very relaxed evening, and the joyful warm reaction from the audience was quite touching. If only the sound engineering at Asuza Pacific kept up with their beautiful harmonies and good singing voices, but the sounds were uneven and the reverberations interrupted the enjoyment of the audience, including my husband, Enrique and myself. Even with the unevenness in sound delivery, the success was inspiring.
“Thanks to our community’s overwhelming support, the fundraiser had gross revenues of $41,676, netted $25,861! This is well over and beyond the original goal of $15,000 that we set for ourselves. Glory to God and Maraming Salamat po sa inyong lahat!”- Pastor Adiel DePano, shared in a direct message and later, his Facebook post.
Legacy and movement of goodness of giving to others
“How long will you and I live, “ wrote Susan Ople, “we need to ask that question because tomorrow, we could die. That we, humans, are gifted with the knowledge that our umbilical cords come with an expiration date appear to be lost on people who live aimless lives. Every sunrise is an opportunity to live a day better and more productive than the previous one. Divinity has its own penthouse, and only those authorized by Heaven reach that holy floor. So, live. Do not aim to merely exist. Leave an imprint, perhaps not as huge as Gandhi’s, but something precious to those who truly love you. Be good.”
When I read that excerpt, I recall seeing this beautiful African-American woman with a huge Afro passing by my house. Her radiance was inviting. I ran outside my front door and asked her, boldly: ”Excuse me, you look so radiant. What’s your secret?”
If I had been approached with that wild query, I might have instinctively ran away. Not her, she stopped, and responded with a smile: “Why thank you! I just live my life leaving the place, better than I found it, the workplace, the church, anywhere I am.” I wanted to ask more, but she was gone in no time. To this day, was she an angel, I asked myself? She had that unmistakable golden aura, a radiance I could not explain.
Legacy square
It is the same feeling I now have in my heart, inspired by a visit to Legacy Square with Pastor Adiel DePano and following an interview with him in Simon’s presence.
Pastor Adiel DePano and Dodjie Simon
Why would Dodjie, an accomplished songwriter of 100+ songs, used in commercials, films, and sung by celebrities like Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez, and author of two books on Artificial Intelligence go out of his way to organize this interview? Simon lives two counties away, while DePano lives one county away from me.
Hidden to us three was the ultimate purpose of this interview. Trusting in the Holy Spirit, we prayed together and later, at the end, we collectively said that the purpose was to write about our common patrimony, the wisdom of gentle humanitarians working for the overall common good.
By our efforts, we can all support and grow the movement of goodness propagated for 50 years by the Filipino Caucus Foundation aka The Filipino American United Methodist Foundation.
What a beautiful evening to know how much impact this foundation has had on our kababayans back home in the Philippines.
Wendell Berry, a farmworker and a writer in Kentucky wrote:
“I go among trees and sit still
All my stirring becomes quiet
Around me like circles on water
My task lie in their place,
Where I left them,
Asleep like cattle”
Ten Eco-Toilets built and designated ten families to use Photos courtesy of Pastor Adiel de Pano of Santa Ana Methodist Church
Then the biological urge comes of me, but nowhere do I sit without polluting what I just planted, rice seedlings…to which I add as the composting, gravity feeding toilets are on my mind. There are more eco-composting toilets we have to build for farmworkers, as there are more homes to build for the homeless.
“St. John’s Seminary recently hosted a remarkable fundraising event that left an indelible mark on the Catholic community. The night was a testament to the unity of purpose, with exquisite food and abundant spirits, celebrating four outstanding members of the community, including Reverend Father Rodel Balagtas, whose longstanding commitment has been an inspiration. Yet, the true heart of the evening lay in its mission – to annually raise funds for the seminarians. These future spiritual leaders were at the forefront of our thoughts, a reminder that generosity and faith go hand in hand. In this brief, memorable gathering, we witnessed the beauty of giving, the power of community, and the enduring spirit of faith. St. John’s Seminary continues to shine as a beacon of hope and growth for the Church, thanks to events like this and the dedicated individuals who make it all possible.”-@ MikoZuñiga
“Congratulations Fr Rodel! Well deserved. It’s high time the Archdiocese of LA recognize it has a Jewel in the Church!” – Fr. Camilo Pacanza
“Thank you ! Beyond proud .. congratulations to our brother priest whose wisdom, humility and love for God and His wonderful works inspired so many. May God’s abundant grace guide Him and all his fellow priest brothers to their sacred journey as “fishers of men ” All for the glory of God!”- Rina Bentajado
“It was an inspirational evening to have our dear friend, Fr. Rodel Balagtas’ story be told in the open. From humble beginnings as a Filipino immigrant, initially working as a banker and rising to become a distinguished religious leader of Catholic Los Angeles and beyond. Benel and I are privileged to have been part of this showcase of strength, resilience, engagement and immersive involvement. What an amazing night towards making a life of difference!” – Benel Se-Liban and Cris Liban
“Fr. Rodel is a priest who cares about people, what they live, their longings and their sufferings. He is always concerned about his brother priests. He feels the pain of others. He leads through inspiring others.”-@Msgr. Lorenzo Miranda
“Congratulations to Fr. Rodel. He earned and deserved this accolade.” – Cora Oriel
“Last night was my first time at the event, a fundraiser for St. John’s Seminary. I had, at one point, considered entering the priesthood after having done a retreat at that serene locale in high school. The fact that so many Filipinos, about a quarter of those in attendance, came to support Fr. Rodel for an award in his honor reflects on his sincerity and reverence as a priest and community UNITER. It seemed as if all of Incarnation was there to express their gratitude for the work he has done and leadership he has demonstrated. We are very blessed to have Fr. Rodel as a spiritual leader. -@Ted Benito
What a beautiful evening, hours only the overcast skies threatened to give us rains. A bit drizzled and it felt quite cold with two gas heaters in the far distance for the sponsors and bishops.
What a meritorious group of selfless servants, one dubbed the Pope of East LA whose church will be celebrating 100 years and half of its existence is under his pastoral leadership.
Another manages the foundation whose assets have grown to close to a billion dollars.
Another was involved in serving several parishes and even in the formation of seminarians to become future priests, whose pastoral practice has endeared him to over 250 in attendance in six parishes, and a warm, inclusive heart for all parishioners. As he read his speech, he was cheered on by his parish.
Last year’s attendance attracted 660, this year in 2023, the attendance topped 960 folks and a gross of $750,000. The last million dollar gross fundraiser I attended was at a legal services non-profit, where a car was auctioned and raffle tickets sold at $100 a piece.
A wonderful orchestra played in the background and with enough volume as not to drown out the sounds of conversations.
Equally inspiring was to see few dozen Filipino priests in attendance. I felt like I belonged to many tables as these priests welcomed me to join them for photos. What a warm welcoming crowd!
Catering was done by Triny’s table with a healthy menu: beef wellington, green beans, scalloped potatoes and apple slices on a tart shell with chocolate drizzled top.
We made fun of the coffee as we requested three times a hot refill. By the fourth time, even the waiter said, “nearly hot.” We attempted to lighten the situation with a joke of getting a digital photo of a gas flame and heating the coffee on top and using the battery powered candle on the table.
All in all, the ambiance, the emcee, the music, the food made for a well organized gala. If only the coffee was hot or that more gas heaters to warm up more tables.
The program was impressive and awardees included: Rev. Dr. Fr. Rodel G. Balagtas, Most Rev. Timothy Freyer, D.D., Rev. Msgr. John Moretta and Kathy Anderson.
I requested the acceptance speech of Fr. Rodel G.Balagtas which I found inspiring and substantive. Here it is:
“Distinguished guests, beloved friends, and fellow servants of God,
Tonight, I stand before you with profound gratitude in my heart, for the incredible honor and privilege of serving our Lord and His people as a priest for the past 32 years. It has been a journey that has filled my soul with immeasurable joy and purpose.
Reflecting upon these years, I am in awe of the multitude of divine opportunities that have been bestowed upon me. It is with sheer gratitude that I recall the countless moments I have shared in the lives of God’s people, in the tapestry of parishes across the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. From bustling urban communities to serene rural landscapes, from close-knit suburban neighborhoods to vibrant multicultural enclaves—I have experienced the incredible beauty and diversity of God’s creation through the people I have been blessed to serve.
But my journey did not stop there. For five transformative years, I had the honor of imparting knowledge and shaping futures as a formator and faculty member at St. John’s Seminary. Focusing on the sacred arts of homiletics and pastoral ministry, I witnessed the blossoming of young seminarians, preparing them to carry the light of Christ into a world yearning for hope and salvation.
As a Filipino priest it fills my heart with great pride and humility to serve as the priest-liaison for the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Tonight, I am overwhelmed with joy seeing our Filipino Catholic Community so beautifully represented at this gala. To my esteemed fellow Filipino priests of our archdiocese, whom I had the privilege of serving as their president—I stand here in solidarity with you, grateful for our shared mission and heritage.
Parish ministry has always been my love, my passion, the very essence of my calling. Thus, it is with absolute delight that I embrace my current pastoral role at Incarnation Church in the splendid city of Glendale. To my cherished staff members and devoted parishioners, who grace us with their presence tonight, I extend my deepest appreciation for your unwavering support and dedication. And let us not forget the cherished memories forged during my time as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in East Hollywood, as well as the early years of my priesthood at St. Martha’s Church in Valinda-West Covina area, St. Augustine in Culver City, St. Joseph the Worker in Canoga Park and St. John Neumann in Santa Maria. These chapters have left an indelible mark upon my soul.
In this moment, I find it fitting to express my heartfelt gratitude to Archbishop Gomez, Cardinal Roger Mahony who ordained me, other bishops, the esteemed seminary faculty, the visionary board members, and my fellow alumni and students. Your recognition as a distinguished alumnus of St. John’s Seminary carries a weight that I cannot put into words. I humbly accept this honor on behalf of all those who have shaped and guided me on this sacred journey. Together, we embrace the mission of awakening hearts and fostering true discipleship.
It is impossible to speak of blessing without acknowledging the immense love and support of my dear family—a family that is deeply rooted in the Catholic faith. To my eight siblings, my ten nephews and nieces, and the abundance of little grand nephews, thank you for being the pillars of strength and inspiration in my life. I am reminded of our dear parents, now resting in God’s eternal embrace, who nurtured values of self-sacrifice, hard work, humility, simplicity, honesty, and integrity. My mother, a beacon of knowledge as a public-school teacher, and my father, a steadfast servant of his country as a member of the U.S. Navy—they shaped my values and ignited the fire within me to serve others.
Today, I stand before you as a product of determination and faith, sharing my journey that led me to the sacred halls of St. John’s Seminary. In 1987, six years after I migrated to the United States to reunite with my family, I embarked on a path that would shape the very core of my being.
My years of seminary formation in the Philippines, coupled with work experience in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, provided me with a strong foundation for the theological education that awaited me at St. John’s. These were years that not only equipped me with knowledge but also instilled in me a spirit of openness, inclusivity, and engagement with the modern world. Inspired by the ideals of the Second Vatican Council, I was taught to adapt, grow, and embrace the challenges of our time while standing firm on the timeless values that guide us.
It was during this time that my passion for pastoral ministry and preaching began to take root. The experiences I gained, particularly in working with the underprivileged, ignited a fire within me that continues to burn bright today. We live in a world that desperately needs compassionate hearts, willing to serve and bring hope to those who need it most.
Through my seminary formation, I came to understand the importance of grounding my pastoral work in prayer, family support, friendships, effective leadership, and continuous education. These pillars serve as the bedrock of my vocation, enabling me to navigate the complexities of ministry with resilience and unwavering dedication.
As I stand here tonight, in my long years of ministry within the cherished Archdiocese of Los Angeles, I cannot ignore the calling that reverberates within my soul. The calling to ignite the flame of the priestly vocation among our youth. Like a beacon in the darkness, I am compelled to respond to this urging of the spirit. Our communities are yearning for more individuals willing to serve as priests and religious men and women, to uplift and heal amidst these challenging times.
But let us not forget the power of collaboration. Together, we can weave a tapestry of faith that transcends the boundaries of clergy and laity. By embracing the gifts bestowed upon every baptized individual, we can labor side by side, priests and laypeople alike, to create vibrant parishes and an archdiocese that radiates love and devotion to our dear God.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your support, encouragement, and presence have anchored me throughout my journey. With humility and deep gratitude, I say, “Maraming Salamat!” Thank you for believing in the power of vocations, for investing in the future, and for joining hands in creating a world filled with compassion, love, and unwavering faith.
May the fire within us continue to burn brightly as we leave this place today, inspired to make a difference and carry the torch of hope wherever we go.”
Back story: I was a lapsed Catholic for decades. Then, I met Fr. Rodel G. Balagtas at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in East Hollywood. Since 2008, we have become good friends and I consider him my spiritual mentor. Through the years, he has introduced me to his siblings and their families, his fellow friends/priests whom I have interviewed for feature stories in Asian Journal.
It is a positive professional relationship where he continues to share prayers, spirituality books, his pilgrimage trips and over good food that includes my spouse and his cycling friend, Msgr. Lorenzo Miranda and at times birthday club friends.
In turn, I have introduced him to community folks and he has supported many Filipino American concerts and plays about immigrants. I find him to be warm, accessible, trustworthy who shares his unwavering deep faith with us, including movies and films to watch about faith.
Inside the Cathedral, I cried for I remembered the long drive, the sacrifices he made as a pastor, as a son visiting his ailing father, the centennial renovation of Immaculate Heart, writing and publishing a book of his homilies, taking children’s choir to competition in the Midwest, NY and Rome to meet the Pope.
It seems his life journey reveals the triumphs of his gentle humanity but also his “expansive heart with indescribable sweetness of love” as Pope Francis said about the Benedictine nuns, and in Fr. Rodel’s heart, for all parishioners in different churches he has served at – tonight, 260 of us showed up to tell him how we all love him and wish him well for we all know he deserves God’s favor through the Archdiocese of LA under Archbishop Jose Gomez and Bishop Alex Aclan, who we all flocked around for a photo as if a celebrity was here with us.
Warm-hearted priests and bishops are equally received with warm hearts of parishioners who will stretch themselves to serve the churches they belong.
Pope Francis visited Mongolia recently. As if he could read my mind’s questions from where he was, he articulated Mongolian Patrimony of wisdom, informed by the co-existence of many religions and traditions. In Mongolia, there are only 1,500 Catholics amongst 3.2 million population, a very tiny fraction, yet allowed to flourish and thrive, hence peace and harmony.
I don’t know much about Mongolia other than they pack their nomadic houses aka yurts to tend to their animals of goats, sheep, camel, horse and cow.
What are those elements of Patrimony of Wisdom derived from their nomadic lives:
1. Healthy Relationship to Tradition
2. Care for the Environment
3. Silence to discern interior life
4. Sense of frugality
5. Hospitality
6. Solidarity – respect for interpersonal bonds
7. Existential pragmatism for the common good of family, community, the nation and ultimately the world.
8. Great followers of religion – reconciled to a harmonious humanity
9. Openness to those transcended folks, founded on the principles of justice and peace, and grounded in a relationship with the divine.
10. No actions contrary to beliefs as it invites and become sources of scandal.
#ThankyouPopeFrancis – with you as our morally aligned spiritual leader, we welcome the serenity and peace brought about by your humane, tender, loving, spirit-centered, soul-renewing leadership! May you thrive for many more years to see our transformation towards a humane, harmonious, people-loving gentle Mongolian-like folks, here in the USA and all parts of the world, including being kinder and gentler towards Mother Nature.
My parents, Eleazar and Asuncion, proudly taking a photo with me during my law school graduation. I obtained my law degree while working full time for a state public health agency, and proudly making it to the dean’s list a few semesters. My father was wildly proud, only to know how proud he was, when relatives told me how he shared my accomplishments.
When I started writing for Asian Journal now on its 32nd year of printing community stories, he called me to request that my surname include hus and my married name, hence Abarquez-Delacruz.
I miss them so much and the absurdity of using work busyness for not attending family get togethers haunt me. Learn my lesson, if your parents are alive, surprise them with your in person visits. Regrets come too late. Of late, the apple green butterfly has kept showing up – thank you Mom and Dad for all your sacrifices so we can have better lives.
I am because of who they are: integrity, compassion, hard work, marrying and existing for love of family!
“Atmospheric, athletic, risk-taking Ballet Philippines’ dancers delighted the crowd in Pasadena Civic Auditorium. A standing ovation no less, for they deserved every clap we gave them and shouts of bravo!!
We saw them dance the classical moves of ballet, reminiscent of Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet dancing Giselle, but the Je, Tu, Elle reminded us of the moves of Chicago, and more.
Act 2 was the stronger part of their program and audience could not restrain themselves in clapping at some risk-taking parts where the dancers were being thrown into the air and twisted while thrown and then like a baby carried down to an embrace.
Lahat ng Araw danced by guys dressed in red (the Chinese color for prosperity) and their red fans took my breath away. Wow, it took us all by surprise that their moves were unpredictable, agile and their dance reminded one of our friends of the way the peacock moves: quick, elegant and clipped in movements.
Equally moving to me was Halik, “a dance excerpt from Crisostomo Ibarra, a dance retelling of a seminal novel Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not) written by Dr. Jose Rizal. Managing to escape from prison, Crisostomo Ibarra visits Maria Clara to give his forgiveness and to say goodbye.” No wonder some of us cried during this dance segment.
Masterpieces defy nature but also gravity as they contoured their bodies as if stretchable rubber bands. Imagine what you want to see in a dance pair and they are doing it with correct pacing, timing, posture and graceful moves.
But, what was so beautiful is to see them move so gracefully to the songs that are familiar to our ears, Dandansoy, and even the popularized arrangements of Master Ryan Cayabyab. It is so full of heart, soul and precise body movements that what should have been magnificent masterpieces were truly a phenomenon!
There is everything to like about Ballet Philippines and for a virgin ballet audience viewer, I must say, I am now a ballet convert. I am now going to ask my mother why I was not exposed to ballet.
Oops, I better do that for myself now, as I am quite grown now to figure out Ballet Philippines deserves an encore and for those who have not yet decided to buy tickets, honestly, you will be doing your family a favor by buying them tickets!! Take the entire baranggay and neighborhood, it is truly magnificent.
Four sturdy bravos!! We could not stop deconstructing the show until midnight over desserts and coffee, and appreciate what a beautiful cultural experience it was. You cannot, you should not and you would not want to miss this show.
Like any show, Hollywood’s glamorous folks came to fully support: Apl.de.ap, Lou Diamond Phillips with his family, Fritz Friedman, The Oriel Family and more.
Thank you Becca Godinez Ted Benito Margie Moran Floirendo, Chona Reyes you made us proud of our kababayans who can dance, who can do yoga, who can do acrobatics, who can do flips like figure skating, who can stand on palms of dancers, who can balance themselves on stomachs of other dancers and at times, resembled frogs, butterflies and more in their agility and precise moves of jumping, leaping and walking on fours! You reminded me of the Bolshoi Ballet and more!! It was that potent and endearing to one’s heart and one’s soul. We all came raving non-stop!!
This is our first time to watch a play at the Pantages, together. Mom agreed I can take her. Of all days, it was yesterday, the height of Hurricane Hilary. She was brave, so was I. But I didn’t push my luck and I parked across the theater, few steps to our seats from my car. We enjoyed the play and its props’ changes was non-obtrusive.
