Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Church members take active part in National Day of Service 2012

for four hours. Despite the heat, everyone worked with a smile and was productive in many different ways. The officiating leaders assigned each auxiliary to play specific roles in the activity. The youth actively repainted the railings around the Quezon City Memorial Circle while the young single adults and full-time missionaries helped in sweeping the entire area. Altogether, they advocated a greener and healthier environment with their bare hands, brooms, and rakes. The members of the Relief Society were sent off to Wildlife Center near the QC Memorial Circle to sweep leaves and other garbage using their broomsticks and rakes. The Primary children also helped in the beautification effort. The Priesthood holders were the ones who pushed around the wheelbarrows with mounds of waste. In a statement, Shane Corpuz of Marikina 4th said, masaya, feel mo ang spirit kasi alam mo work of the Lord. Another YSA from Marikina 6th, Elizabeth Laulita expressed, you get to know people from other wards and stakes, and truly when we are united we can make a big change. As Nanay Emy Reyes of Marikina 6th shared, natutunan natin ang kahalagahan ng pagbibigay natin ng lakas hindi lang sa sariling bakuran kundi sa ating bansa. Indeed, it was a day of countless helping hands and immeasurable love for the communitythe heart of the National Day of Service, a yearly event sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. -Patricia Reyes, M6

Marikina Stake youth enthusiastically painting the railings around the Quezon Memorial Circle
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints successfully held last April 28, 2012 its National Day of Service at the Quezon City Memorial Circle and Wildlife Center in Quezon City. Wearing their Mormon Helping Hands vests, church members from Fairview, Marikina, Novaliches, Pasig and Quezon City (North and South) rendered a total of 150,000 volunteer hours for the said clean-up drive. The service project started at 8:00 AM and lasted

Marikina Stake holds first Stake Presidency Devotional

The Marikina Philippines Stake has embraced yet another high as its leaders extend to its members a special program under the banner Stake Presidency Devotional. By way of inspiration, President Jose G. Manarin invited the members in a spiritual caravan that would journey them through a string of devotional meetings. The first of its series commenced last July 1, 2012 in Parang Chapel. The theme and message was inspired by this years goal of deepening the spiritual foundation of each member by engaging themselves in activities worthy of the spirit. Sister Alice Manarin, wife of the stake president, gave an inspirational message drawn from personal experiences about the blessings of attending and performing temple ordinances. She invited the congregation to gain their own testimony of the Lords fulfillment of His promises that comes from regularly giving our time and service in the temple. She also encouraged members to seek divine guidance in overcoming their personal challenges that may hinder them from performing these sacred duties. President Manarin sealed the meeting with a compelling message to take the time to be holy; for the Lord God [is] holy (Leviticus 19:2). He called unto the members to learn and practice holiness in their own homes, in the church, and in the temple, in the mission field, and in the community. He admonished everyone to seek this virtue through fasting and prayer; regular scripture study; and by standing in holy places through frequent temple visits. He assured everyone of the Lords promised blessings in this life, such as peace and eternal happiness, as we strive to follow the attributes of our Savior Jesus Christ. The counsel and encouragement from the [stake president] to us members should be followed because it is the Lords way of helping us succeed both in our spiritual and temporal quest, said Bishop Rhoel Samson, who conducted the first engagement under the direction of the stake president. Succeeding sessions are scheduled to be hosted by other units in different meeting houses across the stake , namely the chapels in Molave, Lamuan, Provident and Sumulong. The Marikina Stake Choir was enlisted to render musical numbers to help invite the spirit. Indeed, the devotional was spiritually uplifting. -Mike Bala, M4

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Stake Presidency Message: The Vision

by Pres. Jose G. Manarin

mend to visit the temple more often where time and circumstances permit and replace some of your leisure activities with temple service. We need more young people to participate in proxy baptism and confirmation so we can save more of our dead who have been longing to be moved from prison to paradise. I assure you of the sweetest blessings that you can receive by coming to the temple often. You will feel of the Lords presence and love as you walk around the rooms of the temple where many angels also walk. Pres. Thomas S. Monson said, As you touch the temple, the temple will touch you. May I ask you Bishops and Branch Presidents to do all you can to interview more people and counsel them to prepare and make themselves worthy to receive the ordinances of the temple.

Now my beloved Brothers and Sisters, I, Jacob (your Stake President), according to the responsibility which I am under to God, to magnify mine office with soberness and that I might rid my garments of your sins, I come up into the temple (to you) this day that I might declare unto you the word of God. And ye yourselves know that I have hitherto been diligent in the office of my calling; but I this day am weighed down with much more desire and anxiety for the welfare of your souls than I have hitherto been. (Jacob 2:2-3)." It has been eight months now since we all started the program in studying the Book of Mormon as families and as individuals. I know you are all reading the Book of Mormon daily. Thank you for being consistent in your study of this great book. I know many of you have been richly blessed by the power of the Book of Mormon. It has improved your life because of your obedience to the counsels. I have heard many testimonies of how it has impacted your lives. At one sacrament meeting where I attended, the pulpit of the chapel went aflame with your testimonies and the spirit of the Book of Mormon messages. I have a vision of home alerted, of classes alive and of pulpit aflame with the spirit of the BOM messages. I have a vision of home teachers and visiting teachers, ward and branch officers, stake leaders counseling our people out of the most correct of any book on earth The Book of Mormon. I have a vision of the whole Church getting nearer to

God by abiding by the precepts of the Book of Mormon. (Pres. Ezra Taft Benson) May I again remind you of the BENEFITS AND BLESSINGS of reading and studying the Book of Mormon. You will go nearer to God. You will know the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. You can find greater power to resist temptation. You will avoid deception and stay on the strait and narrow path. Love, peace and unity abound our home. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to their parents. Righteousness will increase; Faith, hope and charity- the pure love of Christ will abound in our homes and lives, bringing peace, joy and happiness. It will keep one in harmony with the spirit of the Lord and feel His love. It will help solve personal problems in a very real way. It will help get rid of bad habits and attitudes.

of our prophets and ponder them in our hearts, the blessings and benefits promised by these, the Lords servants, will come to us. I can feel it, we can make a difference in our lives, we can become humble, there will be a big change in the way we treat family members and others. We will approach our callings in a more faithful way and become more committed. We will sustain our leaders and follow their counsels. We will become more faithful in attending our Church meetings and sacrament attendance will increase significantly. We will be honest in paying our tithes and offerings and we will be blessed in abundance, we shall prosper in the land. We will come to the temple more often to renew our covenants. Peace and harmony will continue to abide in our homes and even in our community, in spite of the turmoil. You will love each other more than ever.

God loves us so much that He has brought the Book of Mormon in our time. I hope you realize that it was written for us. Fathers, may I admonish you to continue taking the lead in the study of the BOM in your family. I call upon our Bishops, Auxiliary leaders and all stake officers to become living examples in the study of the BOM. Meet as a council and in your organization, assess how this program is impacting the lives of our people. Bear testimony about its truthfulness and let the whole stake be filled with the spirit of this great book. My other important emphasis to our members is Keep one active in the the regular temple attendance Church, and become and service. a great blessing What more faithful in obey- for us members to live within the shadow of the Manila ing the commandtemple and have easy access to going there anytime during ments. You will rethe week to perform ordiceive a crown of eter- nances for ourselves and for our kindred dead and regunal life. larly renew our temple covenants with our loving HeavI believe with all my enly Father . heart that if we would only I exhort members listen and follow the counsels with current temple recom-

As we continue to read the Book of Mormon and come to the temple regularly and desire to become more holy in all of our daily undertakings, we can come close to becoming perfect as He is, one principle at a time, line upon line, precept upon precept.
How I wish that we can be truly called the Marikina Stake of ZION, and become of one heart and of one mind and continue to dwell in righteousness so there will be no poor among us. These are the desires of my heart and my prayer, In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Members engage in friendly playoffs during Stake Sportsfest 2012

but was moved to the Herbosa Covered Court due to heavy rains. The first game held was basketball for the youth. This was followed by a basketball match among the High Priest Group where the High Councilors (White Team) and selected High Priests (Blue Team) scored 22 -9, in favor of the White Team. The combined Young Women and Single Adults volleyball match between M4 and M5 (Blue Team) and S1 & S2 (Red Team) was won by the Red Team, while the second match between M1 & 6 (White Team) and M2 & 3 (Black team) was won by the White team with a score of 30-11. The Red Team and the White Team fought in the championship round with a close fight of 26-25, the White Team being the victor. Indoor games (table tennis, scrabble and chess) were also held during the activity. The activity closed with inspirational remarks from President Manarin and the awarding of certificates to each participating unit. The approximated number of attendees to this activity was 500.
-Rachelle Anne Cabela, M3

23 members complete Conversational English Course

The Marikina Philippines Stake recently witnessed the graduation ceremony of twenty-three members relative to the first-ever English Communication Proficiency Course. The said course was in partnership between our Stake and the Employment Resource Services (ERS). Almost 72% of the class made it to the rites. The said members, mostly Relief Society, stayed committed in attending an hourly thrice a week session which lasted for almost a month. The course commenced last June 14, and ended last July 5. The Stake Employment Team, headed by the dynamic Stake Employment Directress Sister Casaol, with Sister Diamante, our specialist for Education, spearheaded and completed the said course. Our Directress stated that despite rocks along the path such as budget constraints, lack of equipment and demands on time, the said program finished the race as expected. What made it successful was the fact that the members who graduated endured and enjoyed every single class they had attended. The Stake Employment Team supports the said program because it does not only aim to aid stake members in becoming employed, but also seeks to enhance existing skills which will give them an edge in this fastpaced world. Future programs will include communication skills in French, Chinese and Niponggo. There will also be special classes for computer training and personality development.
-Merille Martin, M1

ON THE SIDE:

The Red Team composed of Young Women from S1 and S2 The Marikina Stake held last June 12 D Best of East and D West, a one day sports activity participated in by stake members ages 12 and above. The East Division was composed of the White Team (Marikina 1st and 6th), Black Team (Marikina 2nd and 3rd), and another White Team (High Councilors) while the West Division was composed of the Blue Team (Marikina 4th and 5th), Red Team (Sumulong 1st and 2nd) and the other Blue Team (selected High Priests). Organized under the direction of the Marikina Stake Presidency, the said activity was opened at Molave Chapel

The activity served as a venue for a father and a son to know each other for the first time. Bro. Dong Tumol of Marikina 3rd and Bro. Jay-Ar Tumol of Marikina 2nd, both investigators back then, met each other during the activity. Bro. Dong approached Bro. Jay-Ar for a chitchat, where he, upon knowing that Jay-Ar was also a Tumol, asked who his dad was. After minutes of sharing, Bro. Dong found out that Bro. Jay-Ar was actually his long-lost son for seven years. Both of them were baptized last June 30, days after their first meeting.

Stake leaders meet Marikina City mayor for eyed linkages

The Stake Presidency headed by Pres. Manarin and the Stake Public Affairs Team headed by Sis. Roni Bertone met with the mayor and vice mayor of Marikina City last June 11, 2012 at Kusina ni Kambal Restaurant situated at Kapitan Moi, San Roque, Marikina City. Also in attendance was Sis. Heidi Fajardo of the Area Church Public Affairs Office. Mayor Del De Guzman and Vice Mayor Cadiz graced the occasion as our church and the city heads began establishing linkages, all aimed at strengthening our presence in and relationship with the city. Some of the items discussed were plans for the upcoming National Family Week activities, revival and relaunch of the Family History Center inside the Marikina City Hall, possible role of the church in the annual Angkan-Angkan Festival, localized training for Home Enrichment activities, our non-LDS version of the Family Home Evening, and an

The Stake Public Affairs Team and the Stake Presidency with City Mayor Del De Guzman and Vice Mayor Cadiz
invitation to our government leaders for a tour in our Manila headquarters and temple grounds. The dinner ended with a positive outlook from both parties, with a gleaming hope that our church and the city government can be a strong partner in recognizing and strengthening the core unit of our community, the family. Almost a week prior to the dinner, Pres. Manarin, Bro. Martin and Sis. Bertone had a quick yet meaningful meeting with the mayor in his office. The meeting concluded with a single token giving and a dinner invitation which was immediately approved. -Merille Martin, M1

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Marikina Stake youth arises and shines forth at SYC 2012

on the theme, Arise and Shine Forth. Another activity, Pathway to Success, featured various skill-developing activities such as job orientation, first aid, sewing, electric wiring and many more. The outdoor activity was a challenge-based treasure hunt where everyone won candies and chocolates. The talent show livened up the evening. The youth turned into performers as they played their pre-assigned Book of Mormon stories in a mixture of drama, comedy and musical plays. Day 3, May 19. Prayer and scripture study at 6am, Gospel quiz, a testimony meeting concluded the conference. Surely, the youth went home that day with new learning, new skills, new friends and increased faith. Kudos to the Relief Society sisters who spoiled us with delicious meals, the leaders who made the activity possible, and the youth for the many days and nights of practices for their SYC presentations. Truly, SYC 2012 left a memory that will always be remembered and that will make every youth look forward to SYC 2013. -Julie Alberto, M1

The SYC participants posing with Elder and Sister Maine after the Devotional held on the third day of the conference

One scenic venue, three days and two nights of activities, more than a hundred youth, unquantifiable fun and learning thats the 2012 Marikina Stake Youth Conference. Held amidst the serene haven of the Sierra Madre Resort in Mayagay, Tanay, Rizal on May 17-19, the conference aimed to make the youth arise and shine forth.

Day 1, May 17. Registration of participants at 6am in the Molave Chapel marked the beginning of the activity. Then followed the almost two hour trip to the site via a three-bus convoy. After arrival were a short orientation, room assignments and unpacking. The remainder of the first day was spent on group games/puzzles, scrapbooking (YWs Personal Pro-

gress), circuitry (YMs Duty to God), and an amazing racetype cook fest. In the evening, the stage was transformed to a Hawaiian luau as the youth, in their grass skirts and leis, displayed their dancing prowess to the rhythm of Aloha, sticks and drums. Day 2, May 18. Prayer and Scripture study heralded the new day. Elder Maine of Area Seventy presided and spoke at a devotional focusing

2012 Area Presidency Goals Update

AREA PRESIDENCY GOALS
STRENGTHEN FAMILIES SAVE THE RISING GENERATION Current TR Holders YM Serving Missions YSA Attendance ESTABLISH THE CHURCH Melchizedek PH Attendance Sacrament Attendance RESCUE THE ONE Number of less-active members who have Returned (4 Consecutive Sundays) END 2011 ACTUAL 383 10 135 272 916 END 2012 GOAL 486 58 203 353 1244 120 % 61% 17% 88% 56% 81% 33% END OF JUNE ACTUAL 297 10 179 198 1016 40

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

OPINION
active members who have gone inactive because of devastating gossips, I am led to believe that indeed, not all traditions are worth the price. Yes, creating and spreading gossips have been a deep-rooted part of our culture. And I say our as I dont excuse myself. I have known and seen a lot of church members who distanced themselves from the church after they had been targets of devastating gossips, and I dont think those who created those gossips even knew how much they had offended our Heavenly Father. And whats funny about these people is that they dont even realize that they themselves are not void of imperfections too. They miss the fact that whenever they make tales, they dont work through a problem but become the problems themselves. It is a sad reality that not all members realize how much they dishonor their personal values whenever they gossip. Even our leaders tell us that our homes will be much more filled by the spirit if family members will only learn how to get rid of gossips. Parents should set a good example to their children because children are the best imitators. Whatever they see in the elders, they imbibe. And Id like to assume not anyone of us would want to raise a family of gossipers. Before you cause your nimble tongue to tell stories about others, identify first what gossiping gives you. If it gives you nothing, then STOP. And while we are taught that the worth of souls is great in the sight of God, would you even dare start a gossip when you know the individual you are just about to offend may never get back to the fold after the offense? If you have issues, CONFRONT.

The Cost of Gossiping

by Vianne Ilagan
Gossips beguile. We listen. Gossips are dangerous, much more when they are done within the parameters of the church, where every member who leaves equates to a soul lost in Gods fold. While piecing together tidbits of stories you hear from others about someone can be fairly enthralling, the damage these stories cause isnt something that you can reverse or undo just when you feel like reversing or undoing it. Gossips are grapevines that creep through stealthy places, breaking through every hole. And like a glass of water spilt on foam, there is no easy way to go and get every drop back to the glass. The droplets absorbed by the foam remain lurking in between its pores. They can never be taken back. Though it is often out of your intent to tear down reputations of people through your conversations, gossips often end up spoiling them. Truth is, gossips normally do not commence with lies. They simply progress with distortion. By this yardstick, it is safe to say that it matters not whether the story you tell about someone is good or bad. The sin about gossip lies not on the nature of the story told but on the

act of starting the story itself. Why? Because these stories, no matter how factual or fabricated they are, serve as bases for judgments of somebodys character. More often than not, through gossips, you form impressions of people even when you have not really known them for a long time, and you base the way you deal with them on these impressions. It is undeniable that these days, gossips interlace nearly every group. People always hanker salacious tidbits of gossips and there is just no stopping them from hankering more. The thrill talking about somebody brings gossipmongers seems unchanging, may the grapevines be about his flaws, his affairs, secrets, or even about conflicts with another. It is just as gripping as it gets, just as exciting as piecing together some textiles to come up with a beautiful wardrobe. Getting to know someone by talking to him in the flesh is riveting; getting to know him by tittle-tattles is doubly so. Here in the church, it is unfortunate that a lot of members have gone inactive in the past because of irresponsible storytelling. Because gossips have no commitment to ethics, people

tend to relay and expose just whatever stories happen by with no regard to news verification. Every now and then, stories shared by two people about somebody else suffer piecemeal distortion as they are relayed from the mouth of one to the ear of another. The worst thing about this is that more often than not, what reaches the end of the line is just a fraction of what has actually been muttered at the outset. Some church members are predisposed to condemn those who give up their faith on account of gossips, believing that gossips are just small potatoes compared to a ranch of faith. Id like to believe that this is a mistaken reading, as one cannot undermine the ignominy that gossips bring. Much as a story is picked and is spread to a dozen of ears, the reputation of the individual talked about is reduced to rubble. Such begets spiritual unease both on the part of the members who gossiped and the one who has been gossiped about. And the effect? A disunited fellowship among church members. The common belief is that gossips are inevitable. In most organizations, that may apply. In the church, however, I believe it may not. Because of the countless instances of once

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

DATELINE MARIKINA STAKE

Marikina 1st shows unwavering faith despite the storm
The circumstances of late have proven how theres just no dampening the faith of Marikina 1st Ward members not even the deluge brought by Habagat. And just like when typhoon Ondoy adversely hit the city in 2009, the saints of the ward remained steadfast in their faith, even at the expense of losing all they have in a flash. Provident Village serves as a home for most members of the ward. The torrential rains several weeks ago brought much flooding to the village, affecting many families and swamping even the stake center by several feet. Even in the face of such a calamity, the members of the ward still managed to care for their brothers and sisters like theyre really a family. A less affected member, Sis. Mila Buenaventura, opened her home for a couple of days to provide shelter for two families. Bishop Vince Dimaculangan, despite being directly affected by the flood, showed his care for his members through constantly checking out on them while the calamity was afflicting the city. The members held their first sacrament meeting following the catastrophe last August 12 at Lamuan Chapel. Several members of the ward still went to church even without their homes totally restored yet. In his concluding message that particular Sunday, Bishop Dimaculangan said members should take advantage of such adversities through service. Through their example, the members of Marikina 1st were able to prove that not even the most raging tempest can ever take the edge off their faith. -Vianne Ilagan, M1

Marikina 4th YSAs Rescue the One

The Marikina 4th Ward Young Single Adults (YSA) held a month-long activity last April called Rescue the One. This is an activity that aims to visit all the less active YSA members of the ward. The activity was done by assigning each YSA to a particular group and each group was assigned to visit specific less active YSAs each week. To assist each YSA in learning the right approach in visiting less active members, a training was done before the activity with the help of the full-time ward missionaries. Solmae Babas, one of the YSAs in the ward, said, Its a spiritual and faith promoting activity. It can strengthen others testimony and the relationship with my companions was also strengthened. Paulit-ulit kong inaalala yung experience na yun kasi doon din ako humuhugot ng inspiration. Meanwhile, the Marikina 4th YSAs plan to carry on with the program. -Rozell Joie Bordeos

Marikina 2nd holds Chinese Classes

In a bid to enhance the self-reliance of its members, Marikina 2nd Ward is holding a series of Basic Mandarin classes to the interested members of the ward. Starting last July 22, members of the 2nd ward have been receiving free Chinese lessons from Sis. Caryl Dumlao, a member who worked in Taiwan for seven years. These once-a-week 15-minute lessons consist of the intonations, basic grammar, sentence construction, and character-writing. I want to share my knowledge with my brothers and sisters and help them learn one of the most difficult languages, she says on what motivates her to teach Chinese for free. I know that sharing your talents with others is one way of living a Christ-like life. This is a good opportunity to learn a new language, says Bro. LeBrent Diamante, a student in the class. It allows me to increase my talents and helps me in preparing to serve a full-time mission. - Jethro Diamante, M2

A Marikina 3rd family starts their journey towards eternity

The Jasmin Family of Marikina 3rd Ward was baptized a couple of years ago. Bro. Oliver Gene Torres of Marikina 3rd ward remembers how he had used his priesthood to baptize the family before he went on his fulltime mission. When he returned, he witnessed how the once little boy of the family has transformed into a young man who remains active in the church, passing the sacrament on Sundays. Bro. Torres was delightedas delighted as Prophet Alma in the Book of Mormon, when he saw his brethren still in the fold of God after years of not being with them. Just last month, the head of Jasmin Family approached Bro. Torres and requested him to witness their temple family sealing and escort him to his endowment. As the sealing of the family materialized last June, Bro. Torres was filled with joy, as he has a firm testimony that the road to eternal happiness starts once a family performs the sacred ordinance inside the temple. He is now excited to see how the little boy of the family sets off for his fulltime mission two years from now.
-Oliver Torres, M3

The Jasmin Family after their temple sealing

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Marikina 5th celebrates larger congregation

January 29, 2012 was a day of rejoicing for the members of Marikina 5th, as it was the day that the Marikina Philippines Stake finally acknowledged them as a ward. For how many years, Marikina 5th stood as a branch because of its small population. Because of the hard work and patience of its leaders, however, several brothers and sisters in their area were able to return to the fold, having dramatically increased their population. The members of the ward also played active involvement in this significant milestone. Throughout the years, they have been strengthening one another and walking with faith and obedience through actively participating in church activities, especially home teaching and home visiting. United in their goals, they were able to bring the less active members back to the ward. As of today, the ward has four full-time missionaries in the field and two single adults who are preparing to serve their own missions soon. Their power comes from their unity. The members of the ward believe that the labors they exert are never wasted because they feel how they reap the benefits of their hard work whenever a sister or a brother goes back to the church after years of inactivity. Everyone is excited to see how this once little branch continues to progress in the coming years. -Glory Mae Cinco, M5

Sumulong 1st young women make temple time capsule

A time capsule made by Sis. Nikka Basconcillo and the hanger handed to her by her leader, where she is expected to hang her temple wedding dress someday Last July 27 and 28, the Young Women Organization of Sumulong 1st Ward had an activity aimed at preparing them to go inside the temple somedaythey created a so-called Temple Time Capsule. Before proceeding with the activity, the leaders bore their testimony about their feelings when they first entered the temple and showed the girls some videos of their wedding day. The temple time capsules contain things that the young women want on their wedding day, such as their wedding motif, wedding dress, wedding cake, etc. They also contain lists of the qualities that they want to improve in themselves and the qualities that they want their future husbands to have. Each young woman also wrote a letter addressed to her future man. They had the freedom to put whatever they wanted to put inside the capsule, including a letter to their future selves. Before sealing the jars, their leaders handed them personalized letters from their bishop. They were also given a hanger with a note saying that they would hang there nothing else but their temple wedding dress. After sealing the jars, the leaders told the young women not to open them until the day they enter the temple. It was a fun way for the young women to prepare themselves in entering the temple.
-Nikka Basconcillo, S1

Sumulong 2nd kids dance their way to service

For the past few weeks, the Marikina Stake Primary Organization has been dynamically preparing our little ones for the nearing visit of our very dear apostles. Saturdays have been very engaging not only nd for Sumulong 2 Primary leaders but also for the few valiant children of Sumulong 2nd who are involved in the Itik-Itik dance number. It was one of the Filipino cultural dances they dedicated in celebration of the Jubilee and during the visit of Elder Russell M. Nelson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, last May. The stake has seen how demanding the weekly practices of the children have been, and how the children have sacrificed much of the time they could have spent for resting, playing, or just having a good time with their own families. The time they sacrifice in doing other activities to make way for this special preparation has also made them learn their little steps to discipline and work. -Armie Nidea Saet, S2

Marikina 6th saints participate in Genealogy work

No work is more of a protection to this Church than temple work and family history research that supports refining. No work we do gives us more power. No work requires a higher standard of righteousness. President Boyd K. Packer August 5, 2012 setting was worth-having to think back to. Saints of Marikina 6th ward had the chance to watch a video on Family History Research. It was mainly on the step by step process on how to begin and carry on the work of genealogy records simply by having an account on www.newfamilysearch.org. Indeed, the Family History Center and the Genealogy Sites are just next to us. Members enthusiasm took part all the way through the question and answer, sharing of experiences, feelings, ideas, and testimonies on a very significant blessing and work. Truly, great happiness is prepared for us if we will just realize that we can be of assistance to those who once lived to receive the gospel and be saved. Appreciation goes out to the Bishopric who gave every family a copy of the above quotation to be posted in every home. High regards to the family history consultants who continuously exert love for the work. Good possibilities to the members who strive to look for the missing information of their ancestors, keep track of their records, and extend their family line further. -Sis. Patricia Reyes, M6

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

COLUMNS
Behold Thy Little Ones
Children hold a very special place in Heavenly Fathers heart. He knows and loves each of His children very dearly. As mentioned by the Apostle Matthew, it is their innocence and purity that the Lord fervently admonishes us to be just like them. However, it is this same innocent demeanor that we, as adults, often take them for granted. We often reason that they are too young to understand that we often disregard their opinions, ideas or even feelings. We sometimes tend to let our years of experience speak for ourselves and expect children to understand or do something according to our expectations, forgetting that they may be experiencing this for the first time. Oftentimes, the task of rearing and teaching children can be very overwhelming for both parents and teachers. However, lest we forget who these children really are, their divine nature and our noble tasks of caring for them. Let us look upon the divine examples of our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Sons unconditional love for the little ones. As the Savior taught, He didnt say, Never mind the little ones because they wouldnt understand. Instead, He would gather them, teach them and bless them. The Lord blesses the children for they are a blessing to others too: to their family, to their teachers, to us. As we teach children, children teach us too, often times, more than well ever know. Children are innately happy. They are gifted with a genuine spirit that knows neither evil nor sorrow. They greet each day with much excitement and live everyday to the fullest. When a child comes up to us with endless questions, we learn patience. When he laughs, we understand joy. When he cries, we learn compassion. If we need to learn perseverance, endurance, humility, the Lord has blessed us with pure examples that come in small packages. An excerpt of a poem goes, After 50 years, it wouldnt matter what car I drove or the clothes I wore of every kindbut what would matter most is that I mattered in the life of a child. What a noble privilege we have to be called in the Lords errand to care for His beloved children! Our responsibilities may be great but great too shall be our blessings from the Lord. And greater would be His joy as we rear his sons and daughters in His ways. Just as little children, we are also messengers of the Lord and it is our responsibility to teach (them) all that (they) must do, to live with Him someday.

PRIMARY CORNER:

Lead Me, Guide Me, Walk Beside Me: Tips for Parents and Teachers
By K.O. Micairan

LDS Teens not PBB Teens

One of my favorite Taylor Swift songs says: When youre fifteen and somebody tells you they love you, you gotta believe them And when youre fifteen feeling like theres nothing to figure out But in your life you'll do things greater than dating the boy on the football team But I didn't know it at fifteen The first time I heard it, I felt amazed at how a teenagers song can capture the teens predicament nowadays and offer an advice. And so with this article I was blessed to be entrusted with, I wish to do the same. My dear young friends, I will address you as any adult would, strictly but with nothing but concern for your welfare. Let me discuss this pressing issue: IS IT OK FOR THE YOUTH TO HAVE BOYFRIEND OR GIRLFRIEND AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE? What do Church standards and leaders say regarding this matter? For the Strength of Youth page 4, the standard on dating, says and I quote, You should not date until you are at least 16 years old. When you begin dating, go with one or more additional couples. Avoid going on frequent dates with the same person. Developing serious relationships too early in life can limit the number of other people you meet and can perhaps lead to immorality. If dating starts at sixteen, then relationships should not begin before that age. So does that mean its ok to go steady at 17? The official church website for the youth, www.lds.org/youth, offers a good elaboration of what the dating standard means: Just because you can date when you turn 16 doesnt mean you should immediately start looking for a steady boyfriend or girlfriend. For decades, prophets have preached that youth who are in no position to marry should not pair off exclusively. President Hinckley (1910 2008) said, When you are young, do not get involved in steady dating. When you reach an age where you think of marriage, then is the time to become so involved. But you boys who are in high school dont need this, and neither do the girls. SO, IS IT OK FOR THE YOUTH TO HAVE BOYFRIEND OR GIRLFRIEND AT SUCH YOUNG AGE? Church standards and leaders say NOT YET. I hope you, our dear young men and young women, understand that the Church standard is there NOT to restrict you but to protect you. No matter how strong emotions are, you can be wise in your decisions. God has chosen you for this day as a wise coach would choose his best players for the last two minutes of the game. When in doubt, talk to Him.

YOUTH CORNER:

Refiners Gold
By Julie Alberto

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Are You the One?

As single adults, we are all in a treasure hunt. We are all motivated to tumble into that treasure because we know how it will not only make us filthy rich but the richest, even as gods and goddesses. Finding an eternal companion is the capstone of our lives as single adults. Our prophets ordain us to marry so we can be exalted and eventually become gods and goddesses. It goes without saying that without an eternal companion, we can never be exalted. What a wonderful promise we have been given. And so I have some sort of broad, noble goal for this column, some profound motivation for the things that I am to share. And I am writing everything in the most honest and thoughtful way I can for you, my dear fellow single adults, as I know we are all in the same boat. As we embark on the ultimate treasure hunt of our lives, we often ask ourselves, How will I know if he/she is the one? Well, I used to ask myself the same question. As an avid fan of romantic movies, I used to look at love in a Hollywood perspectivesomething that is mostly based on physical attraction, moved by destiny and ruled by the strike of Cupids arrow. Many times in the past, I have met finelooking men and have thought of running down that hill like Rose did when she met Jack. And I know it will pretty make sense to you if I say that given our age, there are really moments when we get to meet a man or a woman who simply makes our hearts skip a beat and leads us into asking, Is he/she the one? Then with nothing but that fuzzy, shivering, chilling feeling, wed tell ourselves, Feeling ko siya na talaga.. But our prophets teach us otherwise. We are taught not to hinge on the kind of love we see on movies or read through books. Finding our eternal valentine is much more about using our agency than relying on feelings that catch us off-guard and vanish just as fast. I had been into Hollywood-inspired relationships until I finally learned how to keep an eternal perspective. If we keep one, we will become more motivated to keep the commandments and become wiser in choosing who to marry. Then, we will end up marrying someone who shares the same ideals and standards as we have, someone who will be with us as we tread the path to exaltation. If your thoughts and feelings are muddled up, just remember that when our Heavenly Father sent you to this eternal journey, He equipped you with all the means through which you can receive His guidance. Pray and fast, but before you do, make sure you are worthy of the inspiration. So how will you know if he/shes the one? In the scriptures we are told that if its right, your bosom will burn within you. (D&C 9:8-9) And because you decide through your heart and mind, you will know if youve finally found your treasure if it both makes sense and feels right. As I end this, I am compelled to say that as single adults, we are not just treasure hunters. We ourselves are treasures somebody is in search of. So before we even think about the treasure were finding, strive to be someone worth-finding. It may take you entirely too long, but wherever our choice takes us will certainly be worth it all.

SINGLE ADULTS CORNER:

Walking on Eggshells
By Vianne Ilagan

To Live and to Leave

One of the realities in life that has the most farreaching effects is marriage. Starting such is one of the challenging yet exciting things that could happen in the lives of two people who have attained maturity. Living in marriage will be an adjustment not just in the responsibilities within the husband and wife roles in all lines of social and economic endeavours, but also to their emotional responses to establish a foundation for a well-adjusted and happy family. The reality stage gives the new married couple every opportunity to face decisions most crucial to a correctly driven life and think through the next steps in their life on family and home goal setting. Highlighting the ought-to-do thing, generally right after marriage are the words President Spencer W. Kimball taught, that it is important for couples to "immediately" locate their own home that is "separate and apart from" their in-laws' homes. Living with and leaving your parents are the must-face realities. The latter part in this sense simply means that a man and woman have to establish themselves as a married couple, having their own independent family and living under a self-styled roof and rules. This doesnt mean that they will completely be apart from their parents; the consideration is to establish appropriate relationships with them, bearing in mind certain marital boundaries. This will help them to realize their full potential in marriage, making it a successful one. As to the economic status of the new family, thinking that it would not be enough may suggest living for a little while within the place of the in-laws on either side so they can save up for a place of their own. Learning how to manage finances and decisions about where and how to live must be the couples concern. A small apartment with basic home appliances that accomplish some household functions is sufficient for the starting couple. Generally, they think of the worlds famous line a lot of shopping to do, it is important to consider first the things essential for everyday use like of the food -related functions. It should be like taking small steps at a time, or having some home stuff at a time, with the consideration of the home start-up budget. A married couple who resides in their own home is most expected to learn independence and discipline and most likely to feel that there's nothing like having a couples place it is worth the effort. Success in marriage does not just happen; it depends always on the two spouses whose choice is to govern their own family life through right principles and who consider their marriage as worth having from its very beginning, indeed, to a realization of a worthy principle too an eternal perspective.

FAMILY CORNER:

Happiness in Family Life

By Patricia Quine

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

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Lets Fight Anemia!

I knocked on the big brown door. I held the door knob with my sweaty hands and slowly turned it. I quietly pushed it as I nervously stepped my feet inside. I saw Bishop sitting and his surprised eyes looked at me and asked, How can I help you? Yes, two years have passed since I talked to my bishop and got my application form to serve a full-time mission. I was just released from fulltime missionary service last May 16th. I can almost not believe that those eighteen months that I first thought to be long were gone too swiftly, full of bliss. I can say that my life has changed after I went to the Lords University the full-time mission. Serving a mission is one of the greatest and rewarding decisions I made in my life. Even though full -time missionary service is a priesthood responsibility, the Lord welcomes the sisters in this great and marvelous work. I know that you are all so familiar with missionary work. I even thought to myself when I was a youth, Missionary work.. here we go again. Its always in the spotlight. But as I aged in life, I began to discover why missionary work is always under the spotlight. As Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Seventy said in his talk during the April 2010 General Conference, Missionary work is the lifeblood of the Church and the lifesaving blessing to all who accept its message. If it is the lifeblood of the Church, then it needs be always in the heart of every member of the Church. During my mission, I experienced losing much blood which even put me into the edge of returning home during my 16 months of stay in the field. But I am glad that I was able to finish the 18 months of full-time missionary service. What I am trying to say is that, mahirap po pala maubusan ng dugo. I then realized how important blood is in our body. Its the mode of transportation inside our body. The blood carries the necessary nutrients that the different organs need to operate properly. Without blood, we cannot live. Therefore, if missionary work is the lifeblood of the Church and less members are participating in missionary service, what would happen to the Church? I am sure that the Lord really appreciates the effort that we all do. The Lord wouldnt want the Church to feel terrible, would He? President Thomas S. Monson said during the October 2010 General Conference, May I mention a matter close to my heart and which deserves our serious attention. I speak of missionary work As I fought losing much blood; Sister Martino, the Philippines Angeles Mission Presidents wife, lovingly told me of the things that I must do to fight that challenge. I know that preparation and hard work is necessary in this great and marvelous work because this work is a challenging one, but a very rewarding work too. So, see you in the next issue and lets talk about the things that we can do to get better prepared for this exciting work!

MISSIONARY CORNER:

He Calls You Now

By Rachelle Cabela

PERSONALITY CORNER
with the numerous concerns and conversations of the members of the ward continues to make an influence in their hearts and minds. A wonderful bishop who served Marikina 6th for almost nine years, a selfless teacher to everyone, a loving husband to his wife and a caring father who provides for the needs of his family, Bishop Ramon C. Reyes is truly one of the remarkable persons the ward will forever be proud of. Countless things he endures with a willing heart, plus the righteous principles he continues to live by. He is my father, the man whom I will always be honoured to have. -Patricia Reyes, M6 warmth and thoughtfulness to share to others, and intensity to devote to his calling. He slings his solid arm over anyone who needs it and demonstrates his capacity to connect with members from all walks of life. He has a unique gift of finding joy in the simplest of things (like playing xbox with his son on weekends) and smiling in the direst of circumstances (like living through the fact that his son is cancer-stricken). A loving husband, a dedicated father to his children and a faithful servant of Godtruly, this space wont do justice to the wonderful man that Bishop Allan Borilla is.
-Vianne Ilagan, M1

Members of Marikina 6th Ward pride themselves on one man who continues to give every effort to magnify his calling as the former father of their ward. He lives a quiet life, yet makes countless things possible. He dedicates himself to inspiring people through his principles, touching them and motivating them to live a meaningful life. How he deals

There is no denying that this man has more depth than most people give him credit for. Anyone can attest that as the former father of Marikina 1st Ward, Bishop Allan Borilla has faith and dedication written all over his soul. When he talks, his unflinching moral values and honest compassion for people often overshadow the bright and breezy man in him. He has a unique brand of

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MARIKINA STAKE OFFICERS President: Jose G. Manarin 1st Counsellor: Danilo D. Basconcillo 2nd Counsellor: Ofrecio Y. Corpuz Stake Exec. Sec.: Henry Lacson Stake Clerk: Onofre Corpuz Asst. Clerk: Marcelino Abril Jasper Basconcillo Stake Patriarch: Reynaldo Raflores Stake Family History Director: Andres Canals STAKE HIGH COUNCILORS 1. Ronaldo Bordeos 2. Ramon Reyes 3. Christopher Trance 4. Marcelino Abril 5. Allan Joel Borilla 6. Dick Micairan 7. Jaime Erwin Bernadas 8. Noriel Villanueva 9. Merille Martin 10. Danny Villanueva 11. Jessie Lopez 12. Eduardo Canlas STAKE PRIMARY PRESIDENCY President: Ma. Estella Abril 1st Counsellor: Hermenia Saet 2nd Counsellor: Shirly Ogale Secretary: STAKE YOUNG MEN PRESIDENCY President: Herbert Balingit 1st Counsellor: Danny Villanueva 2nd Counsellor: Angelito Aserit Secretary: STAKE YOUNG WOMEN PRESIDENCY President: Ma. Lourdes Andres 1st Counsellor: Lilia Villanueva 2nd Counsellor: Camilla Jean Belleza Secretary: Michelle Rada STAKE RELIEF SOCIETY PRESIDENCY President: Ma. Julieta Burdeos 1st Counsellor: Elizabeth Basconcillo 2nd Counsellor: Sonia Lopez Secretary: STAKE SUNDAY SCHOOL PRESIDENCY President: Dick Micairan 1st Counsellor: Rommel Paliza 2nd Counsellor: Jasper Basconcillo Secretary: STAKE PUBLIC AFFAIRS Chairman: Veronica Roni Bertone Community Relations: Deanna Borjal Media Relations: Vianne Ilagan STAKE EMPLOYMENT Director: Sis. Germelina Casaol Specialists: 1. Pamela Nava (Entrepreneurship) 2. Ning Dela Cruz (Training) 3. Cecilia Diamante (Education) 4. Edela Palacsa (Records)

MISSIONARY CORNER
In a nutshell: Elder Dela Pea shares his feelings about missionary service
Days after he got his mission call, Bro. Terrence Dela Pea, 19, openly talks about his nearing full-time missionary service in Anchorage, Alaska. Below is just a snippet of the interview, but can count as a whole. V: Has it always been your dream to become a full-time missionary? T: It has always been my dream to become a full-time missionary because I know that in this way, I can help our Lord Jesus Christ to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. Serving Him will be a great privilege for me to show how thankful I am for the blessings of the restored gospel in my life. This is my way of saying thank you for His atoning sacrifice, for giving His own life so that we can return to the presence of our Heavenly Father. V: What motivates you to serve a full-time mission? T: I love Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Thats the only reason why I want to serve. V: Tell me something about your experience when you opened your mission call. T: ...I was so excited to open my mission call in front of my mother. I opened it and started to readDear Elder Dela Pea: You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. You are assigned to labor in Alaska Anchorage Mission. I was shocked and I couldnt believe it so I read it again from the start. Tears started to fall from my eyes and I said, Mama I was assigned to a foreign mission! That was the happiest day of my life because I knew it was God who called me to serve Him. V: How are you preparing yourself for your missionary service soon? T: I am preparing based on His counsel in D&C 4:2: Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve Him with all your heart, mind and strength. My preparation didnt start when I opened my mission call. It did when I had the desire to serve Him. I graduated seminary March 2009 and I believe the program was the most influential to my spiritual preparation. Duty to God also prepared me to receive my Melchizedek Priesthood, to become a good father and a good husband someday, and most especially to prepare me to serve a full-time mission. I have always devoted my summer vacations working with the full-time missionaries of our branch. It has exposed me to real missionary work situations. I was called as the Young Men president of our branch and it serves as an opportunity for me to learn how to handle stress as I serve our young men. Having daily scripture study and attending institute also help me strengthen my testimony and develop my personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who exemplified perfect missionary work in his ministry. V: Your message for the young men of our church who are nearing their missionary age. T: I want them to read the invitation of Jesus Christ in Matthew 4:18-20. To all our young men, the Lord has invited us to become fishers of men. Peter and Andrew accepted the invitation and followed our Savior without hesitation and left their jobs. I am leaving my net, my education, because I love the Lord. The field is white already to harvest. Our Heavenly Fathers children are now ready to hear and accept His restored gospel. He needs us to work in his vineyard and prepare to harvest our brothers and sisters who are looking for the truth. -Vianne Ilagan, M1

ODES OF ZION
By Patricia Reyes-Quine
Temple the brightness of the clouds the calmness of the flowers the gentleness of the grass the quietness of the grounds the stillness of the trees the softness of the wind the echoing emotion the enduring inspiration the existing revelation the never-ending sound of beauty and love the whispering of His eternal plans Eternity

Undeniably Gift

A Smile
By Sis. Wyona Borilla
A smile costs nothing, but gives much It takes but a moment, but the memory of it usually lasts forever. None are so rich that can get along without itAnd none are so poor but that can be made rich by it. It enriches those who receive, without making poor those who giveIt creates sunshine in the home. Fosters good will in business, And is the best antidote for trouble And yet it cannot be begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is of no value Unless it is given away. Some people are too busy to give you a smileGive them one of yours For the good Lord knows that no one needs a smile so badly As he or she who has no more smiles left to give.

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

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THE EDITORIAL BOARD

Jose G. Manarin Chairman Merille Martin High Council Adviser Vianne Ilagan Editor-in-Chief/ Layout Artist Elizabeth Laulita Cartoonist Michael Manzano Graphic Artist Columnists: Rachelle Anne Cabela Kristine Olga Micairan Patricia Reyes Julie Anne Alberto Contributing Writers: Jethro Diamante Michael Bala Merille Martin Rozell Bordeos Armie Nidea Saet Glory Mae Cinco Nikka Basconcillo Oliver Torres

IN THE PIPELINE
THE NEXT THING

BIG

MTC-Bound

Our church is working hand in hand with the Marikina City Government for the National Family Week Celebration this September. Themed Ensuring Work-Family Balance, the celebration seeks to strengthen family relationships through proper prioritizing between work and family life. As one of the advocates of Proclamation 326, the church encourages all stake members to observe the Kainang Pamilya, Mahalaga Day where family members will have to share at least one common meal every 4th Monday of September to signify their unity and thanksgiving. Stake leaders are currently in talks with the local government and other stakeholders over the activities that will be held in observance of this very meaningful tradition. Keep yourself posted!

Bro. Redentor Mondragon (M4)

Philippines Iloilo Mission November 3, 2012

Bro. Terrence Dela Pea (M5)

Alaska Anchorage Mission October 30, 2012

Bro. Aaron Kim Paao (M5)

Philippines Bacolod Mission November 3, 2012

Sis. Maria Mahonri Adaka (M5)

Japan Fukuoka Mission

WHY PAPYRUS?
Papyrus is a paper-like material derived from the papyrus plant. Historically used as a writing surface, it is believed that the earliest biblical texts were written on papyrus scrolls. The Marikina Stake Papyrus is the official quarterly publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints-Marikina, Philippines Stake. It has evolved from the Stake Presidencys vision of providing all stake members easy access to issues relevant to them. Envisioned to breathe new life into the stakes information dissemination scheme, The Marikina Stake Papyrus is packed with a recap of the past quarters most significant events and activities, columns tackling issues pertinent to members from all ages, an overview of upcoming stake activities, a suite of inspirational literary compositions, noteworthy stake personalities and statistics and a whole lot more. The Marikina Stake Papyrus Editorial Board members dedicate themselves to providing a wealth of articles not just to inform, but even more so, to inspire Marikina Stake members to live the gospel of Jesus Christ and be united in faith.

To Tie the Knot

No sacrifice is too great to have the blessings of an eternal marriage. -Russell M. Nelson
We hail the following brother and sisters as they soon enter into the new and everlasting covenant of marriage:

Sis. Mary Shayne Corpuz (October 2012) Bro. Circon Boyd Sagun (December 2012) Sis. Michelle Rada (December 2012)