Monday, February 24, 2014

I REGRET TO INFORM YOU

From: Aaron Quitugua 
Date: Wed, Sep 4, 2013 at 9:42 PM
Subject: Follow Up
To: acristobal@archagana.org


Dear Fr. Adrian,

Thank you for meeting with me today. It is a joy to see that a new Archdiocesan seminary is finally in the works. I believe that our meeting flushed out many concerns I have regarding this new seminary, which is to be at the Malojojo Retreat Center. I write this letter before speaking with my Spiritual Director to lay out the major concerns we discussed and the elements that you said you would provide me so that I can make an informed decision about entering this Archdiocesan seminary.

During our meeting, I mentioned that my major concerns were in regards to (1) the overall structure of this new seminary (2) the college credits I have already earned and (3) the formation I will undergo.
In regards to structure:

I made it clearly known to you that I am a very structured and organized person. I am meticulous when it comes to details because I firmly believe that before I can make decisions, especially important life decisions, I need to know exactly what I am getting myself into. I am not one to shoot into the dark. Seminary life is supposed to be structured so as to form the seminarian accordingly and build stability in his life, which are key elements to the discernment process.

You affirmed that being structured is important, but I cannot expect to see much structure in this new seminary right now because the details are still in the works and anything can change.
In regards to college credits:

You informed me that the seminarians of this new seminary would have to take classes at the Bl. Diego Institute. I made it known to you that I have already earned some college credits at the University of Guam and am currently enrolled at St. Joseph's College of Maine's (Catholic University) accredited online degree program.

You told me you would get back to me after consulting Msgr. David C. Quitugua, Bosco, and Dabid as they oversee the Bl. Diego Institute regarding the following so that I can make an informed decision:

1. Will the college credits I have already earned be transferable to the Bl. Diego Institute, especially since the Institute does not offer General Education courses and, as you said, operates the European way?

2. Will credits I earn at the Bl. Diego Institute be transferable to accredited universities should I discern that I am not called to be a priest after all?

3. Seminarians at the Bl. Diego Institute earn a Bachelor’s degree of Philosophy in two years after completing 62 credit hours. At most accredited universities/colleges, 62 credits only completes an Associate’s degree (some require up to 66 credits). How are 62 credits equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree here?

4. Seminarians at the Bl. Diego Institute earn another Bachelor's degree, this time in Sacred Theology in four years before eligibility for ordination. Does the Bl. Diego Institute offer the graduate degree program (Theologate) as outline in the Program for Priestly Formation under the Norms for Intellectual Formation?

5. You told me that tuition for the Bl. Diego Institute at the new seminary would be covered by the Archdiocese. If I were to enter the new seminary, would the Archdiocese assume the cost of my tuition, books and other fees from St. Joseph's and would the Archdiocese reimburse me for the money I have spent on a college education thus far.

6. If I were to continue my classes with St. Joseph's would I still be required to attend the Bl. Diego Institute?

In regards to formation:
1.  
How long will it take for me to become a priest in this new seminary?

I believe that if the questions are answered adequately I will have enough information to make an informed decision guided by prayer and spiritual direction. Father, thank you again for meeting with me.

God Bless!

Aaron Quitugua

#####
(6 days later)


On Tue, Sep 10, 2013 at 4:59 PM, Cristobal, Fr. Adrian <acristobal@archagana.org> wrote:

Aaron:

Here is what Prof Bosco Corrales wrote in response to your questions:

1) We can only transfer credits of classes that coincide in content and number of class hours with the program of the Institute. General Ed. credits will be probably not transferred, but only philosophy and theology credits as much as they correspond with our program.

2) We are only accredited by the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome, so the credits of the Institute could be transferred to any pontifical university in the world. In regards to other universities the transfer would depend on the board of that university.

3) Our students do not earn any philosophy degree, they earn a Baccalaureate Degree in Sacred Theology after completion of the six-year program (185 credits)

4) The Institute follows exactly all the guidelines of the Holy See (expressed over all in Sapientia Christiana and the Decree of the Sacred Congregation of Education of Jan 2011)

Our program of studies lasts 6 years. It could be less after transferring some of the credits the student has already earned.

Hope this is helpful,

Fr. Adrian 


#####
(6 days later)


On Thu, Sep 12, 2013 at 10:51 AM, Aaron Quitugua  wrote:

Good morning, Fr. Adrian,

Thank you for getting back to me with these responses. Please thank Prof. Corrales for me as well.
I will use the information provided to me thus far, along with prayer and spiritual direction, to guide me in this major decision, which you have allowed me some time to make.

Based on these responses, I am glad the Bachelor's degree program was cleared up for me in regards to what exactly seminarians at the Bl. Diego Institute earn. Although, I still have some concerns, especially in regard to the transfer of credits into and out of the Bl. Diego Institute. This is not to say though that I have ruled out the possibility of me attending this new seminary. I just need some time to make my decision.

Again, I trust in the Holy Spirit to guide me in making this decision, which will come about through prayer and spiritual direction. I ask that you continue to pray for me.  I will be in touch. Thank you again.
Si Yu'us Ma'ase,


Aaron

#####
(the same day)

From: Cristobal, Fr. Adrian <acristobal@archagana.org>
Date: Thu, Sep 12, 2013 at 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Institute
To: Aaron Quitugua 


Aaron:

Pray to Our Blessed Lady who said "I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be done unto me according to your word."

Peace,
Fr. Adrian

#####
(7 weeks later)

On Thu, Nov 7, 2013 at 3:54 PM, Aaron Quitugua wrote:

Good afternoon, Fr. Adrian,

Thank you for meeting with me again yesterday and for understanding my decision not to enter the new seminary yet so that I may earn an accredited undergraduate degree under a general education program since the Bl. Diego Institute is not currently equipped with the resources to offer me this.
I just want to recap our discussion from yesterday to ensure that we both understand each other and to ensure that I understand the position of the Archdiocese in regards to the seminary. Please bare with me as this letter is lengthy.

We discussed the following important issues all in the understanding that this new seminary for regular diocesans and the Bl. Diego Institute are still in initial stages and are developing:

One was that I still desire to become a priest and I stressed how important it is to me to earn my undergraduate degree from an accredited institution that offers a general education program that introduces students to a wide variety of subject areas (Math, science, history...) and then allows the student to specialize in a specific field. I then used Mount Angel Seminary as an example as their college meets seminary requirements, is accredited by a secular organization(Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities(NWCCU) and the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS))and offers a general education program. You mentioned that the Bl. Diego Institute isn't quite ready to offer an undergraduate program and accreditation may occur somewhere down the line. We discussed that although the Bl. Diego Institute is affiliated to the Lateran University in Rome, an affiliation is not the same as an accreditation.

Also, in a previous email you sent me on September 10, 2013, you wrote that Prof. Corrales affirmed that the Bl. Diego Institute is not able to accept my college credits and credits will only transfer out to Pontifical universities. The transfer of my credits is important because it ensures that I don't waste what college education I have already received as well as the money spent to receive it. It also ensures that should I discern while in the seminary that I am not called to the priesthood after all, I would not have to start my college education from scratch as if I were a college freshman coming straight out of high school. 

Further, I made it known to you that I desire to earn a graduate degree, even go as far as a doctorate. Universities that offer graduate degree programs not only look to see if you've earned an undergraduate degree, but specifically look for accredited undergraduate degrees.

Another concern we discussed was the issue of formation. A seminarian attending this new seminary shared with me his daily routine, which is usually to wake up, pray the Divine Office, attend Mass, go to class, come back to do school work, eat and sleep. My concern is what other formation aside from praying the Divine Office and Mass would I be undergoing. You mentioned to me that the formation of seminarians is under the direct supervision of the bishop of the diocese the seminary is in and that the new seminary for regular diocesans is still developing its formation program.

I also mentioned to you that I was able to speak to the Rector of the new seminary, Fr. Romy. Fr. Romy shared with me essentially what you shared with me; that the new seminary is in its initial stages and is developing. Fr. Romy also mentioned that a plan to build a permanent structure for the new seminary is being conceived. You affirmed this, but said it would take time to accomplish this.  

Father, upon reflection of the above issues we discussed, an idea came to my mind. The first time we met on Sept 04, 2013, you informed me that our Archdiocese no longer has the financial resources to send seminarians to study abroad, which is the purpose this new seminary is being started.

The idea that came to mind is this: Since the reason for not allowing local seminarians from Guam to have an education abroad is due to lack of financial resources, would the Archdiocese sponsor me to study at Mount Angel Seminary if I were to consume the cost of my education and formation there since I seek a fully accredited seminary? It would not cost our Archdiocese any money to send me there. As we discussed, Mount Angel is an accredited institution with a general education program. They would accept the college credits I have already earned and should I discern that I am not called to priesthood after all, credits will transfer out of them to accredited secular institutions, such as UOG, which ensures that I would still be on track to earning an undergraduate degree.

Father, it is my hope that this email is not interpreted as being disrespectful, but rather as one that strongly feels the call to the priesthood.  Despite the many challenges in my discernment, I have stayed the course over the last few years and continue to pray to God that the Archdiocese will help me find a way to serve the people of Guam.

If anything I have stated here is incorrect or misinterpreted on my part, please feel free to inform me. Thank you for taking the time to work with me regarding these things and I look forward to your reply.
God Bless you always,


Aaron

#####
(5 days later)

From: Cristobal, Fr. Adrian <acristobal@archagana.org>
Date: Tue, Nov 12, 2013 at 8:36 PM
Subject: Re: Recap
To: Aaron Quitugua 


Aaron:

Thank you for your letter.  I hope to give you some answers in the next week.  I ask you to be patient.

God Bless,
Fr. Adrian   

#####
(7 weeks later)


On Fri, Dec 27, 2013 at 8:28 AM, Aaron Quitugua wrote:

Good morning, Fr. Adrian,

Merry Christmas! I hope all is well considering how busy the Church calendar has been as of late.

I just want to follow up on your Nov 12, 2013 response to my November 07, 2013 letter that I sent you regarding my decision not to enter the new local seminary and my question of whether the Archdiocese would sponsor me to study at Mount Angel Seminary if I were to cover all costs of my education and formation there, meaning to say that it would not cost the Archdiocese any money to send me to Mount Angel.

In that Nov. 12 response you said that you hoped to have answers for me within that next week. Perhaps you have overlooked it considering your hectic schedule, but I still have yet to receive those said answers a month and a half after your initial response. Please know that it is very important for me to know the Archdiocese's position regarding this issue, so that I can make the necessary provisions and plan ahead for myself.

Also, in your Nov 12 response you asked me to be patient. Father, I'm sure you would agree that I have been more than patient, given that I have patiently waited, with prayerful patience mind you, for over a month. I only ask that the Archdiocese relay to me clearly their position so that I may plan accordingly in pursuing my priestly vocation.

Thank you for taking the time to assist me in what I consider to be an important matter. Should you need a copy of my Nov 07, 2013 letter and your Nov 12, 2013 response, please do not hesitate to ask me.

God bless,

Aaron

#####
(the same day)


From: Cristobal, Fr. Adrian <acristobal@archagana.org>
Date: Fri, Dec 27, 2013 at 10:43 AM
Subject: Re: Follow Up on Reply
To: Aaron Quitugua 


Dear Aaron:

A Blessed and Holy Christmas!  

I appreciate your patience in this regard.  I also apologize for the delay in responding.  It is true these days have been extremely busy.  

I regret to inform you that your request to have the Archdiocese sponsor you at Mt. Angel Seminary is denied.  

In the event that you do have a change of direction in this matter and decide to follow the course of action that we require, please fell free to contact me.

Sincerely,
Fr. Adrian Cristobal

64 comments:

  1. What do you expect Tim? Aaron has no choice..HE MUST FOLLOW THE PROGRAM INSTILLED by the NCW.

    They are slowly going to pull everyone in, but must first start with those seeking a vocation.

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  2. "In the event that you do have a change of direction in this matter and decide to follow the course of action that we require"...
    I am a parishioner of Santa Barbara and I know Aaron and his family personally. My gosh! The injustice inflicted upon Aaron by Fr. Adrian all because Aaron is NOT NEO! I know firsthand from a family member that Aaron was told by the Archbishop that if he attended RMS, Aaron's family would have to pay for his formation/housing there. So because Aaron doesn't want to be formed under the NEO, he's being DENIED?! This is utter ridiculousness! If Aaron's family has to pay his tuition here, why can't he be allowed to attend off-island, since they will be paying his tuition there? The obvious reason - the money doesn't stay with the NEO! So who exactly pays for all these foreign men at RMS? I highly doubt it's their families - which is why the people of Guam are going to be FORCED to give to the Archbishop's "Appeal".
    The Archbishop and the Director of Vocations, Fr. Adrian, are committing a grave sin by denying this young man, as well as others, the opportunity of a proper diocesan formation in a seminary off island. Just because Aaron is NOT a NEO does not mean he should be denied. Where is the justice in this Archbishop? And Fr. Adrian, your statement about following the course of action that WE require...who exactly is WE? The NEO requirements?
    Aaron is a very intelligent young man who has dedicated many years of his young life to the church. He has served the Archbishop on numerous occasions, and still continues to be jerked around. Does the Archbishop and the Vocations Director realize the severity of their denial? How can they deny one of our own?
    The people of Guam are being FORCED into the NEO WAY...

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    Replies
    1. That's disturbing: Aaron was told by the Archbishop he would have to pay for his own education and housing. Are we to assume that the parents of all the other seminarians are paying for their education and housing? We'll get to the bottom of this.

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    2. To Anonymous 8.18... all your points are well taken. Don't forget either of who was the Director for vocations prior to his unjust dismissal to be replaced by Fr Adrian.... This is why they wanted to get rid of Father Paul, because he was refusing this kind of hatchet job that poor Aaron fell victim to. All the pieces of the puzzle are slowly coming in......ummmh

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  3. PDN titled "A Miracle for Guam

    Our seminary has already reached its tenth anniversary of life and, as in the beginning, the prophetic words of Isaiah still resound: … announce the Good News to the distant coasts and islands which have not yet experience the glory of the Lord. (Isaiah 66:19).

    I am still a heathen, so the Catholic values I was brought up with means ****.
    Sorry Mom and Dad you didn't teach me the right way!

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  4. Forced into NEO WAY? NEVER

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  5. Was Aaron given a more detailed explanation, such as, "if you attend seminary in the mainland the archdiocese will only recognize UC Berkeley" because this just sucks. Hope Aaron will still look into being a priest even if it is for some place else.

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  6. This story is a disgrace. The archbishop should be ashamed of himself. Thank you mr Rohr for making these letters available to your readers. This archdiocese is in a leadership of crisis.

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  7. ... and there we have it, Catholic Faithfuls! These letters explain exactly why WE DO NOT AND SHOULD NOT HAVE TO SUPPORT THIS NEO SEMINARY NOR ANY NEO ENDEAVORS OR PLANS AND DREAMS, FOR THAT MATTER!

    Our own have to pay to attend this seminary, yet we Guam Catholics have to support and carry foreign seminarians at this seminary simply because they are on the island? That is a warped sense of their definition of charity!! Clearly this act simply is DUPERY, FRAUD, AND DECEITFULNESS, which equates to IMMORAL AND UNETHICAL ACTS; which for Catholics -- whichever term we choose from above to describe the act or whichever way you rationalize the act, SUCH ACTS ARE A SIN!

    Wake up Guam Catholics! Our heads have been deep down under the sand for much too long. It appears that our shepherd, has allowed himself to be wrapped around the neo hierarchy's fingers (twice or more round) and therefore, has found it easy to pull the wool over our eyes so as to be able to funnel our contributions toward supporting kiko thru kiko's seminary!

    How convenient -- all this at the expense and on the back of Guam Catholics, whether or not we want to! This up-coming "Appeal" better be MORE TRANSPARENT, BE MORE PRECISE AND BE ABLE TO SHOW US FACTS AND ACCOUNTING ASSURANCES about where our money is going before this Diocese even begins to think about carrying out this "Appeal" and before we, Catholic Faithfuls should even consider blindly giving toward it!

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  8. If I read these correspondences correctly, Fr. Adrian did inform Aaron that the Archdiocese would cover the cost should Aaron enter RMS. So maybe there was communication between the Archbishop and his Chancellor? Anyway, my question is this: if the Archdiocese can afford to cover the cost for Aaron and everyone else studying at RMS, why can't the Archdiocese afford to cover the cost off-island? So Archbishop, you're denying Aaron for financial reasons (as stated in a previous blog). How can this Archdiocese afford to pay for all these foreigners studying at the RMS?

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    Replies
    1. It's all about following the NCW program! Not for the NEO..sorry buddy you don't qualify to be a seminarian!

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  9. Such a shame. Aaron should consider becoming a Capuchin.

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    Replies
    1. That is a different call from The Lord.

      Delete
  10. Mr. Rohr, it is painful to think you have tricked young Aaron into giving you the correspondence between him and the vocation director Fr. Cristobal to further your hopeless causes. Hopefully, you realize this will ruin any chance of Aaron following his vocation. Your lack of prudence is astounding.

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    1. Dear Fr. Adrian,

      Just an FYI. I have had ZERO communication with Aaron.

      The bottom line is that you and the Archbishop told Aaron that the reasons he could not attend a seminary off-island was because the "Archdiocese no longer has the financial resources to send seminarians to study abroad."

      When Aaron came up with the finances to pay for his own education, you refused him sponsorship.

      Father, that's called a LIE.

      And as for Aaron's chances of "following his vocation", apparently you and the Archbishop already took care of that, didn't you?

      "Your lack of prudence is astounding."

      Regards,

      Tim

      Delete
    2. From the sound of the email, Aaron still seems unsure of his intentions. The option b plan was as much on his mind as becoming a priest. I think commenter's should stop fantasizing that Aaron was 100 percent in and that he got slapped down for nothing. This young man may be smart and willing, but he is not sure for his place. Don't come down on our Neo brethren for this comment because it actually comes from a non-Neo. God Have Mercy on us all.

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    3. Most young men who believe they have a vocation are encouraged to enter the seminary so as to discern one. Aaron's situation was no different. But that's not the issue. He was told that the Archdiocese did not have the financial resources to send him off-island. Aaron came up with his own resources and the Archbishop refused him sponsorship. So finances were not the issue. That's called a LIE.

      Delete
    4. To Anon at 2:47 - You would be surprised of how many men who are now priest entered seminary possessing the same sentiments as Aaron. It's the beauty of discernment and faith in the Holy Spirit.

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    5. What about the other seminarian Tim defends. The Neo Seminarians persevere because they have the support of community for a long time.

      Delete
    6. Sure like the Non-Neo group is accumulating against you Tim. many more to come. Watch and you'll see. I’m one of the majorities of the minions just to let you know. Wait til Aaron sees this, talk about invading privacy. You just publicly crush the boy's heart.

      Delete
    7. Thank you both for clarifying. I learn something new every day. I thought once you enter it means you know 100 percent that you will be a Priest. If that is the case and he was going to pay his own way, then he should have been given the chance to at lesst try. Or at least told honestly that the Archdiocese does not accept any vocations but through the RMS.

      Delete
    8. I decided to read this part of your blog hoping that maybe something positive came about for Aaron. The comment made by anon (3:16pm) is disturbing. "Neo seminarians persevere because they have the support of community for a long time." If the neo seminarians are given all this support, why can't the Archbishop also support a local son? I am certain Aaron Quitugua has the support of his family and his community, which happens to be the local people of this island of Guam. The Neos are just a tiny fraction of the Catholics here, and yet, they cause so much division and destruction. They filter so much hatred, as I've witnessed so many times in their comments on this blog. 3:16pm: Do you think that because you have the support of your neo community that that will make you a better and holier priest than the non neo local men who hear their calling from the Lord? It's not just the neos who hear a calling. In fact, some of those neo seminarians aren't there for the priesthood. They've said it themselves that they entered for the free education.
      If you compare the number of people who attend the ordinations of neo priests to that of the ordination of Fr. Richard Kidd, it's obvious the people of Guam stand behind their local sons. The cathedral is practically empty when the neos have an ordination. Don't tell me the Archbishop, the Chancellor and the Vicar General don't notice that! Everyone notices!
      I will pray for you Aaron. You are being treated unfairly and unjustly by the Archbishop, who, along with the Vocations Director, should be nurturing your desire to enter the seminary so that you may discern. God bless you!

      Delete
    9. Sad to say, Aaron has no future in this diocese so long as Apuron is Archbishop. That might be a good thing.

      Delete
  11. Aaron is intelligent and writes very well. It is clear that he wants to make an informed decision, considering his education and his goals for the future. Besides, what Tim states is true. Aaron was lied to. He was told he could not be sponsored due to financial reasons. If Aaron was able to afford his tuition somewhere else, why deny him that opportunity? The Archdiocese had nothing to lose.

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  12. ...you know the saying 'the bigger the lie the more people will believe in it'...now I know we were LIED to.

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  13. 321pm - The non-neo group is not accumulating against Tim like you wishfully state. We are here to discuss intelligently and dialogue about issues brought out from the darkness and into the light. We may not agree on every issue and we don't have to. I won't slam Tim because he feels a certain way on an issue, in fact, I respect Tim and would shake his hand, so don't take questions or comments as points for your group because that is far from the truth!

    If you are so concerned for Aaron's sensibilities then speak up for him and champion his cause. His mother already stated from her heart what his sentiments are so don't speculate here about what he feels because you have no right!

    And if anyone crushed Aaron it was the Archbishop and the Chancellor with their LIE.

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  14. I have very generously donated to what is now known as the Archdioesce's Annual Appeal every year but now that a local son of Guam is being denied the opportunity to study at an off-land seminary, I will not be donating this year. Instead, I will be donating to the Capuchins to help the young men in their formation to become Capuchin priests. I will also encourage other family members, relatives and friends to do likewise. Let's see just how much this year's Annual Appeal will make!!

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    Replies
    1. Same here. I used to buy tickets for the big gala at the seminary, but never actually attended. I won't be buying tickets ever again.

      Delete
  15. Could Aaron be sponsored by an off island parish? Would he then be able to come back to Guam as a priest, it has not become totally over run with Neocats?

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    Replies
    1. As others have done, Aaron could go elsewhere to become a priest. And there are many dioceses which would be glad to have him. However, he could never come back under the current regime.

      As for the Neocats, they know their time is short, which is why they made a desperate grasp at acquiring the seminary property. By acquiring the property, they would be able to continue to use if for their true mission even if a bishop hostile to their cause succeeds Apuron. Their true mission isn't Guam. Never was.

      Their true mission is only now beginning to come clear. Like the many colonizers and occupiers before them, Guam is simply strategic real estate. Except in this case, they have the added bonus of a duped public forking out hundreds of thousands of dollars to pay their way.

      Delete
    2. Strategic Real Estate. People all Guam should ask the archbishop to whom the property belongs before they buy a ticket ... Or ask father Julio, he will tell you. Or, maybe he won't. At the dinner one year the Archbishop said that father Julio landed on Guam and announced he hates gringos

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    3. The issue regarding the ownership of RMS at this point is mute. The finance council stopped the Archbishop from conveying the title to the property outright. The issue is now whether or not the Archbishop "assigned" the property to RMS. This would not have to be recorded and no one would know until a new bishop would try to exercise control over the property. RMS could then produce the "assignment" and this is why the legal counsel warned against the lengthy and costly legal process such an assignment would produce. The archbishop would have to be deposed in a law suit in order to get that information out of him, but the only lawsuits at this point going forward is the canon law suit regarding the removal of Fr. Paul, and the defamation lawsuit. But we'll see what happens.

      Delete
  16. I wonder how many other Aarons there are. A friend of mine tried to become a priest three years ago. He was told by the chancery that he had to be formed as a Neo at RMS. He didn't want to become a Neo. He eventually left Guam to try to find a parish that would sponsor him.

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  17. It sounds to me that Aaron isn't even sure if he is called to the priesthood. He seems more concern about making sure that his college credits are still accepted in the event that he realizes that he isn't called to the priesthood.

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  18. @anonymous 5:37. Then Aaron should do the same as your friend. If he really wants to be a priest, then use the money he said he already have and go to a parish that would sponsor him.

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    1. @7:22AM: Wow. So that's the new rule going forward: Regular Catholics Need Not Apply. I can't believe what is happening to our Church on Guam. Is this really happening? I'm crestfallen.

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  19. To Anon at 7:12 and 7:22AM..You really need to read the whole blog and the statements Tim wrote so that you may better understand Aaron's situation. As I understand, Aaron wants to be a priest in this Archdiocese. However, because he is NOT NEO, he is NOT being allowed to study for this Archdiocese. The Archbishop told him he could not provide sponsorship due to financial reasons. However, when Aaron offered to pay for his own tuition, the sponsorship was still denied. Why should Aaron have to go somewhere else, while the Neos continue to infiltrate our island? Why is the Archbishop denying a local son while inviting all these foreigners? Why should Aaron have to look for another diocese, when he is from this Archdiocese? If Archbishop Flores were still here, this injustice would not be happening. He supported vocations 100%. It's too bad, and very sad and unjust, that our local sons "have to go somewhere else."

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    1. Anon @8:27 I agree with you completely! It is, indeed, sad and unjust. Something MUST be done about this!!!!

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    2. And what about the women who seek vocations to the religious orders? I know a woman from Sinajana who was told to enter a Carmelite order off island....I guess the local Carmelite nuns are not a good enough order for our dear Archbishop or still worse for the real Archbishop of Guam...Archbishop Pius Sammut. What a SHAM and what a Shame!

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    3. What is new? Father Pius Sammut hails from this place in New Jersey. They have the "NCW PROGRAM".

      Didn't someone blog about the dwindling of women entering the convent here? There has been brainwashing somewhere. Only though the entering of a NCW religious order will you be saved.

      It is a shame to see that in a few years these convents will close due to the lack of support coming from the diocese.

      Archbishop Apuron, in all honesty what is wrong with the Carmelite Order on Guam? God have mercy on your soul for not supporting them.

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    4. I remember the relics of Santa Teresita LITTLE FLOWER came to GUAM Did she follow NCW program ? No. She was ONLY "regular nun". Like us regular Catholics. God help us.

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  20. Reading all these comments seems like some are blaming the Neos. For Aaron, its good he wants to become a priest for this Archdiocese but also there are challenges to overcome even when he becomes a priest. I understand that he is concerned about his college credits and I too would be. But the fact of the matter is that he wants his way only. People should understand that even though he wants to be a priest, he should learn the First thing of being a seminarian or priest, which is OBEDIENCE! If you can not follow what the Bishop says to be in his diocese then what? The Bishop mentioned that there is another seminary in the making in the coming year. The new seminary is for Diocesan Seminarians that want to be a priest for the Diocese but have to attend the Bl. Diego Institute. I understand why the Bishop doesn't want to sponsor him for the Mount Angel Seminary. Because he has a new seminary in malojlo and can take classes at the Bl. Diego which is on our Island. I hope we all understand that the institute is the school and not apart of the Neo way. It is just located in the RMS. I pray him and for everyone on this blog.
    - NON Neo and NON Trady (TLM) (Sorry TLM but that is what my friend from the TLM calls your group).

    Saina Ma'ase

    Just a regular Parishioner

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    1. OBEDIENCE?! The Archbishop is NOT even OBEDIENT to the POPE! If this Archbishop cared more about the flock he's supposed to be caring for, instead of giving in to the Kiko cult, Guam's Church wouldn't have all these problems and all this division. You want Aaron Quitugua to just keep waiting around for this mirage of a seminary to be built? I'm an educator, and I can only think about how long it will take to get a certified curriculum, instructors, accreditation,... years.
      If you believe the Archbishop really intends to build that "seminary", then let me sell you that piece of land I own in the Marianas Trench. If you haven't heard by now - the Archbishop and his advisors are all LIARS!!! The Archbishop just blows smoke to try and fool the people. But the people know his game and can already see through his smoke screen. The Blessed Diego Institute is one and the same as the RMS - same campus, same instructors, same classes, same NEO formation.
      Besides, what does this Archdiocese have to lose by sending Aaron to Mount Angel? This Archdiocese would not be paying for anything. The Archdiocese would only gain a priest...a priest for Guam - a local priest for Guam. You should get your facts straight and become better informed.

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  21. Here is an example about being a seminarian: If a person apply's for a job then he should accept the time and day of when to work. The person cannot say when he or she can work and when to get off unless they're part time workers. But let us understand that if Mr. Aaron really wants to become a priest for this Archdiocese then he must comply with the terns and conditions of the work forces that he chooses. I believe Mr. Aaron is still young and has many things to grow and reflect on. I understand why he's not joining just yet. Maybe he should discern more of any vocation. Everyone has their own vocation weather it is being a Priest, Deacon, Lay person or even any job that they may choose.
    I also understand that the Archbishop has the right to say Yes or No to anyone who applies for work in this Archdiocese, meaning becoming a seminarian or even work in the Chancery. Example: If the employee doesn't like to work for the employer because he wants his way or NO way then why should the employer hire that person?
    I continue to pray for everyone in this blog that the Holy Spirit may dwell in all of us and that all may understand that we have to be patient for what we want. We can't always have what we want! Let's face it, its apart of Life here on earth. We have to work for what we want and sometimes we complain but we have to learn to move on.

    Tim,
    You speak of your not in a group but in the Catholic Church? The Catholic Church has one Body but we are all many Parts, may it be in different organizations be it (Neo, TLM, Christian Mothers, Legions, Divine Mercy, KofC, Curcilios, Capuchins and many more).
    I am a Katoliku just like everyone who is Baptized in the Faith.
    I pray that everyone on this blog come together and stop all the bashing of every other group. Let us just focus on the reality and pray to God our Father that he may come to heal all of us and not just one person but everyone who takes part in this blog.

    God Bless!

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    1. Let's repeat the issue since you still don't get it: THE ARCHBISHOP LIED TO AARON. Shall we try that again: THE ARCHBISHOP LIED TO AARON.

      And the fact that you consider the "TLM" a "group" along with the Neos and Christian Mothers, well that sort of gives us an insight into your level of understanding. But feel free to continue to demonstrate.

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    2. I'm a member of the Christian Mothers. I know very many members of the Legion of Mary, the Catholic Daughters and even members of the Cursillo and Divine Mercy and Knights of Columbus, read this clearly Guamboy: WE ARE NOT, NOR WANT TO BE NOTED OR COMPARED TO BE LIKE THE NCW/NEO BECAUSE WE ARE NOT AT ALL (FROM THE TOP DOWN, AND ALL THE WAY AROUND), NOT AT LIKE THE NEOS!! Stop fooling yourself!

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    3. Yes. And by the way, the NEO is NOT, I repeat NOT, by virtue of its own statute, and by its founder's insistence, I repeat NOT a group...and therefore should NEVER act like one, i.e. handle and control money like its there's.

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    4. You must mean the Neo is not a mooooovement.

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    5. @Guamboy 10:15 am -- Of all of the deceitful protestations made by the Neos, I find this one to be the most insulting and the most insidious. The Neos ask the regular Catholics to stop "bashing" the Neos and to "come together" all the while the Neos are do everything within their power to destroy the regular Catholic Church (the church of spiritually dry Judases in the view of Kiko and the archbishop) and replace it with the Neos. These appeals to calm and unity are nothing more than artifice designed to mollify regular Catholics until the Neo takeover has been completed.

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  22. Replies
    1. TLM refers to the Traditional Latin Mass. It is not a movement. It is the Mass, a particular form of the Mass known now as the Extraordinary Form. It is the Mass which all Catholics attended up till 1970 when Pope Paul promulgated the New Order of the Mass which is the Mass most people attend today. Pope Benedict, in 2007, clarified that this form of the Mass was "never abrogated", meaning it has always been "the Mass" and was NEVER not permitted. He went further, asking bishops to restore this Mass to its proper place for "what was sacred then is sacred now."

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    2. I would rather go to REGULAR mass in English or chamorro in 5:45AM @ Agana. I don't speak Latin.

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    3. And no one is asking you to go. No one who goes to this Mass speaks Latin. They don't need to. Latin is the official language of the church which is why the Pope recently just conducted the consistory of cardinals all in Latin. Does this mean he does not care if people don't understand it? Or does this mean that the Pope recognizes that the universal language of the Catholic Church is Latin?

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    4. So now the Neos are trying to claim that your "group" is TLM?? How funny, Tim! I am totally on your side in this fight, yet I don't attend any "mass".... Latin, Kiko style, English or Chamorro.

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  23. Like I said. I aint a Neo. I was going to the TLM mass but felt very awkward because I felt I wasn't welcome by a certain person.

    Guamboy

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    1. This is why we don't pay attention to whether we feel welcomed or not by "persons" when we go to Mass.

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    2. Hogwash! I don't believe the "boy." Sounds more like he is spinning a tale to try to push his point. Besides, to feel unwelcome at Mass is to be directed to the door. I doubt that is what occurred.

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  24. I do believe that Father Adrian Cristobal,took over the as head of vocation about a year ago...right? Since his taken over the helm, how many men enrolled in the Deaconate formation have dropped the program because of him?

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    1. How many men did we see wanting to enter the seminary 10 years ago? Merizo, Santa Rita, Barrigada, Chalan Pago, and Asan have priests serving the parishes now...we no longer need to request priests from the P.I.

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    2. At 11:43 AM. No on in their right mind on Guam would have wanted to become a priest under Archbishop Apuron. And those that did have had to suffer much. That's why he had to go get them from Kiko. And so what's wrong with "priests from the P.I."? You got a problem with that? Like priests from Columbia or Brazil are somehow better? What a load of crap.

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    3. I requested on JW before for updated list of candidates of deacon program. This is way more than would be expected for those in formation. Please if you are informed, let us know. One of the men has used his name here, God a Bless him.

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  25. Father Matthew Blockley.August 6, 2014 at 2:21 PM


    Well stated Tim. May be soon we will see the real reasons why Archbishop Apuron sold his soul to the N. Way. There was a reason for this and I think each day we get closer to truth. I'm just sitting watching now because what is now happening will also reveal to us who are the true sons of Guam.And regarding the Filipino priests. The greatest priests I have known are from the republic of the Philippines. Many good bishops in the Philippines willing to release good Proests to serve on Guam. To say that the neo was for the future of Guam was a lie from day one. hope in time the people of Guam will see how you have all been used by archbishop .

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  26. Truly this is disheartening. Reading through your blog Tim, I understand the messages you are trying to disseminate however, the matter you are displaying them is rather daunting. Truly if this young man desired priesthood and heard the calling of Christ to such a beautiful vocation his concerns would not lie in the matters of college credits and monetary funding. When one truly desires Christ he knows in his heart that God will provide. My heart and prayers go out to everyone. I pray that no one is misguided and that we find the truth without biased and slanderous attacks. I sincerely hope Tim that your efforts are not allowing people to doubt the Catholic Church. I hope your posts do not turn people away that need Christ in their lives because I know these are not your intentions.

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  27. Again, anyone entering the RMS is not possible if you are not walking with their communities, JUST NO WAY. I HAVE BEEN THERE, DONE THAT. The whole archdiocese supports the coming of the foreign seminarians and not from their respectable communities. How do I know? I was one of them when it all began.

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