News Updates

Mandala-writing at Self-Healing workshop (Nov. 24, 2007)

2008-01-12T11:04:00.002+08:00

By Orlan de Guzman Jr.

On November 24, 2007 (Saturday) two batches of Mandala-writing workshops were conducted by the Byakko ShinJin Manila as part of the Self-Healing Workshop organized by the Ishilta & Friends. Held at the penthouse multi-purpose hall of One Wilson Place in Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila, the Self-Healing workshop features Mandala-writing session back-to-back with the Inner Dance healing session.

The two workshops were facilitated by Byakko ShinJin Manila members: Ms. Norma Correa, Orlan de Guzman, Jr., and assisted by Queen Frilles, Babes Bautista, and Cielo Lazo. The earlier batch composed of six new participants and two returnees.

The latter batch of participants composed of 10 newbies and one second-timer (Ms. Lisette Salazar), some of which are the facilitators of Inner Dance healing session.

Reposted from: http://mandalaworkshopsmanila2007.blogspot.com

Holy Smokes: Of Swamis, Fire Rituals & Yummy Prashad

2007-10-01T10:20:00.000+08:00

Reposted from www.innerworkcircle.blogspot.com with permission.
By Orlando de Guzman, Jr.

It was another wonderful Hindu evening for the Peacemakers’ Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC) last September 11, 2007 as the group went on another Faith-On-Site session or “field trip” to attend a Vedic ritual called Maha Sudharshan Homa at a residential home in New Manila, Quezon City. The ritual -- which was intended for peace, happiness and getting rid of evil forces - was especially performed by two Swamis who are devoted followers of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi or “Amma”, India’s renowned “hugging Saint.”

Amma’s first monastic disciple, Swami Ramakrishnananda Puri is currently in Manila to spread the love and wisdom of the embracing guru. A series of meditation lectures, spiritual discourses and rituals were conducted from September 8 to 12 in several venues in Metro Manila. The TIWC members were grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in one of these events.

It was the first time for most of us to experience a Homa or fire ritual. Although not set in an actual Hindu temple, the makeshift “shrine” – complete with a carpet platform and roofed by a tent amidst trees in a wet grassy garden of a huge cozy residential complex - was enough to provide an atmosphere of peace, serenity and sacredness for such a unique spiritual experience.

With only oil lamps lighting the area at the beginning, a clueless first-timer might find the ritual uneventful as the crowd merely observes in silence and sits in meditation (or anticipation, or amusement) as the orange-robed “priest” (who sits in full cross-legged lotus position most of the time) quietly performs a series of mudras (hand gestures) and prayers while blessing the altar with water, incense, oil lamps, twigs, flower petals and other implements.

Vedic chants sung by the other Swami at certain times interspersed with the lighting of the fire. After an hour or so, the house lights were turned on and the crowd was led to a series of participatory tasks which include washing the feet and going barefoot, offering individual prayers, scattering flower petals around the fire altar, receiving and anointing ourselves with blessed water and ashes. The ritual culminated with what seemed to be the most enjoyed part of all — the distribution of prashad or food that is blessed as offering for all to share. Everyone was obviously delighted with the sweet milky prashad not only by its delicious exotic taste, but also by the experience of eating it out from our bare palms!

The evening was capped with a hearty Indian meal which was enjoyed by all while watching videos of Amma. What a delightful body-and-spirit-filling experience indeed! (It was an ideal way to conclude the 101st anniversary day of Gandhi’s non-violence movement!) Thanks to the organizers and hosts!

Om Shanti!

© 2007 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Bacolod City Rose Into Action: The Magi Advocate Newsletter

2007-08-24T16:24:00.000+08:00

By Frozen Star

Last July 2007, The Magi Order, headed by Praetor Neo, released the first ever Occult Newsletter in Bacolod City. Entitled The Magi Advocate, this newsletter includes several articles written by actual practicing occultists in the city who decided to share their gifts of writing to the community.

The newsletter started from the observation that only a few people are aware about the truth of the Occult and Esoteric Arts. And so, with Siv, Emerald, and other local practitioners, Praetor Neo decided that a newsletter can help increase people’s awareness.

The first newsletters were printed in black and white, on one bond paper, folded, so that it makes four pages all in all. It has about seven articles, composed of announcements, personal insights and introductory information about Esoteric topics.

The newsletters were distributed freely in different areas throughout the city to get the widest audience possible, from cafes, internet centers, hotels, and most notably the Gypsy tearoom, among others. A JPEG version is also available in Praetor Neo's website at http://occultinvestigator.i.ph so that even those who are not within the city can learn from the newsletter, and therefore, more people can benefit.

And this is just the beginning. Praetor Neo said that their Order will be releasing the newsletter monthly, with the help of several other practitioners who are eager to share articles about their personal experiences as well. With these informational articles, more people will awaken to the reality of magic around them and within their lives.

© 2007 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Manggagaway and Peacemakers' Circle Joined for Spiritual Awareness Workshops

2007-07-23T11:35:00.000+08:00

By Aldrin F.T.

Empowered Reunion with the Heart of the Spiral - Dec 2006
“Blessed be,” said Pluto last 20th of December 2006 as Manggagaway conducted its first workshop ever. “I’m a fan of astrology and was inspired by my teacher who gives classes too,” says Ishilta who was generous enough of his time and effort to had planned everything. “The Pluto reunion with the galactic center prompted me to hold the workshop because it was a very rare and very significant event,” he added.

LightNet and the Ageless Wisdom Library was initially proposed to patron the venue but was instead granted by Peacemaker’s Circle [with the help of Orlan], who shared the same mission-vission of “self-empowerment and healing the Earth” with Ishilta.

It was Ishilta’s first time to formally facilitate a workshop. Ten people came and participated. The workshop – which served as a focus group discussion / group dialogue – provided guided meditation, purification ritual using the four elements, and group healing. He briefly discussed sacred timing and the significance of Pluto's reunion with the Galactic heart. “By working consciously with the universal rhythm, we can easily facilitate our healing, learning and personal growth. Whenever we go against the currents, our experience becomes difficult,” explains Ishilta.

The lecture was so successful that it had to extend 2 hours just to accommodate the ‘juicy’ sharing. Giveaway meditation CDs and certificates of participation wrapped up the night.

Creating Sacred Space - Feb 2007
Following December’s workshop was “Creating Sacred Space”. Ishilta discussed the importance of space clearing, its benefits and the basics of creating sacred space in uplifting our spirituality and the quality of our lives. “By clearing clutter, we free stuck energy and create room for fresh new ones,” Ishilta says.

Ishilta facilitated an activity on identifying clutter (physical and intangible clutter) and a short ceremony on releasing its mental/emotional counterparts. The space clearing techniques taught in the workshop were heavily influenced by Tibetan traditions, and teachings of Karen Kingston and Master Choa Kok Sui. Also, Orlan of Peacemakers’ Circle demonstrated/led the group to a movement exercise à la Tai Chi as a method of purifying space.

The workshop was held at the Interfaith Dialogue Centre where certificates of participation were given to wrap up the night. A sequel was planned...

Practical Space Clearing Demo – March 2007
...and the sequel materialized. Ishilta discussed again the importance and basics of space clearing. He guided an actual step-by-step space clearing ceremony at Babes Bautista's residence in Murphy, Cubao.

Eleven people came and participated. But ‘twas no usual workshop. Things got ‘emotional’ at the ceremony when spirits of the hostess’ deceased husband and ‘elemental friends’ were felt.

There were no certificates but the food was à la fiesta.

Reclaiming the Inner God/dess – May 2007
The session began with a group meditation (meditation on the twin hearts) on blessing the earth. It was followed by a dialogue wherein each participant shared his/her conception of Divinity.

Ishilta shared insights on the inner God/dess and our potentials as miniature god/dess. As Divine beings, he highlighted our potentials: the power to create our reality (In Buddhism, everything is illusion. It is up to us what kind of illusion we want to live), the power to transform through perception (While we don't have control over outside forces, we have the power to choose how to view and respond to situations and scenarios in life), the power to know (If we are able to listen and meditate on the stillness of our inner being, we can gain insights and guidance from our inner wisdom), and the power to ask (Through prayer, we can manifest things that will serve our highest potentials). He stressed that "each one become the change he/she seeks in the outside world."

He highlighted that the main reason why some of our prayers do not manifest or turn out the way we want it, is because it is not aligned with our soul consciousness/purpose. Most of the time it's the ego self that speaks in our prayers. Our prayers should be in accord with our divine nature or "blue print".

He discussed the significance of Wesak and the Scorpio full moon. Wesak is a Buddhist festival celebrating the birth/death and enlightenment of the Buddha. We can utilize this time to tune in to the energy which can help us awaken our "inner God/dess consciousness". But before we do that we have to purify ourselves and dissolve the false mask so we can unleash our inner Divinity. Part of purification is dealing with deep buried issues.

He shared channeled insights to each participant to help them identify their important issues in life at the moment. A group healing session topped the end of the program.

** If you are interested to hold a free Workshop or Session (with minimum energy exchange) on topics like energy balancing, sacred timing, space clearing, and archetypes at a sponsored venue you can get in touch with us for scheduling and more information. We are also open to collaborating our efforts with other groups with similar mission-vision. If you wish to sponsor a Free Workshop, it is most appreciated and welcomed too. **

Special thanks goes to:

The Peacemakers’ Circle especially to Ms. Marites Guingona-Africa and Ms. Shakun Vaswani for allowing us to use their space for our sessions and Orlan de Guzman for the event photos and for always helping in the preparations.

Kether W. for generously financing the events.

Be of Lightnet-Ageless Wisdom Library for providing our meditation CD give-aways.

Babes Bautista for generously offering her place and food for our Space Clearing Demo.

Aldrin F.T. for sharing his skills and time in writing this news article.

Synergies of Prayer and Oneness

2007-06-26T21:10:00.000+08:00

By Orlando de Guzman Jr.

Courtesy of The Peacemakers' Circle

I. The Symphony of World Peace Prayers in Mt. Fuji

QUEZON CITY, Philippines (May 20, 2007) - The Byakko Shinko Kai (White Light Spiritual Organization), with the support of the World Peace Prayer Society (WPPS) and the Goi Peace Foundation, held its Third Annual Symphony of Peace Prayers at the Fuji Sanctuary (located at the foot of Mt. Fuji) in Japan. The event gathered together more than 10,000 Japanese participants and hundreds of leaders and representatives from different faiths from over 80 countries. From the Philippines, at least two were sent to represent us: Mr. Mario “Toots” Fungo, Peacemakers’ Circle member and satellite representative of Byakko and WPPS; and Ms. Norma Correa, a young member of Byakko Phils. Shin Jin Program.

In conjunction with this event, the Byakko Phils.-- in cooperation with The Peacemakers’ Circle-- organized a connecting activity at the Peacemakers’ Interfaith Dialogue Center in Quezon City to synchronize and synergize with the major event happening in Japan on the same day. From 10:00 am up to noon time an intimate group of Peacemakers’ friends and members of the Byakko Phils. Shin Jin Program gathered for meditation and prayers for world peace.

Starting off with a viewing of some scenes from the previous celebration of the Symphony of World Peace Prayers, the group was oriented and was given some idea on how the event would have looked like as it unfolded in Japan. This was followed by the World Peace Prayer Ceremony wherein the prayers “May Peace Prevail on Earth”, and its Filipino version “Kapayapaan Nawa sa Daigdig”, were offered as the names of each nation were read by each participant around the circle. At the center of the circle was the globe around which mini-flags of each of the nations were spread. The simple ceremony was concluded with silent meditation and individual prayers.

This was followed by a short sharing of insights and reflections on the experience and how each one felt about the activity. One participant shared that she could actually feel the peaceful energies that connect the group with the energies of the thousands of people in Japan.

The group then proceeded with writing mandalas with affirmations for world peace, followed by performing of the Divinity-In movement prayers for the self and for humanity. The celebration ended with a sharing of simple snacks sponsored by one of the members of Byakko-ShinJin Phils.

Simultaneous with this gathering, other connecting activities in the Philippines were also held at the Center for Migrant Youth in Quezon City (led by Fr. Ben Villote and Bro. Eli Andrade); Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception (SFIC) – Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation Commission (JPICC) -- led by Sr. Vida Cordero, SFIC; Kalinaw URI Cooperation Circle in Cebu (led by Sr. Sandra Clemente, RSCJ); and the Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters in Cebu (led by Sr. Stella Parmisano, SSPS).

II. The First Philippine Convergence for Human Synergy

QUEZON CITY, Philippines (May 26, 2007) - Representatives from The Peacemakers’ Circle attended the First Annual Philippine Convergence for Human Synergy held in Quezon City. The whole day event was organized by SanibLakas ng Taongbayan Foundation under the initiative of its Lead Founder and Executive Director, Mr. Ed Aurelio “Ding” Reyes (also a recent regular attendee of the Peacemakers’ Inner Work Circle).

The talks, group discussions and paper-reading (and even the community singing!) centered around the significance of cooperation, interconnection, and human synergy as a necessary factor in consciousness development, social transformation, and nation-building.

Also featured in the conference were the convergence events in Mt. Fuji (Symphony of Peace Prayers), as well as the Silo’s messsage convergence at Punta de Vacas, Argentina on May 3-5, 2007 (where also around 10,000 people were gathered).

Although not as many as tens of thousands in number (compared to the events in Mt. Fuji and Punta de Vacas, the conference -- attended by only about 24 participants -- was a humble, yet timely significant and historic contribution of the Philippines to the world synergy of convergence and the celebration of the oneness of humanity amidst these times of awakening.

© 2007 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Beat of the Earth

2007-05-28T13:09:00.000+08:00

by Gwyddon

TALAMBAN, Cebu, Philippines (May 28, 2007) - In celebration of the International Earth Month, the Cebu Paranormal Society in cooperation with Istorya.Net, OponOnline.Com and Ananda Marga Yoga Center spearheaded TERRA: A Benefit Party for Mother Earth last 28th April 2007 at Resto Eklektik, in Talamban Leisure Center . Part of the mission of the Cebu Paranormal Society is environmental advocacy, which is a growing concern today. And so, this activity was held to promote ecological awareness.

The invocation, performed as a moving dance, was led by Bane, member of Cebu Paranormal Society and leading light of Ordo Intra Circularis in his native Iloilo. The party kicked off with live performances from Maharlikha, an ethnic music band, as part of the invocation for the healing of Mother Earth. They played some more of their new songs as the night wore on.

Guest performer Dada Nabhaniilananda of Ananda Marga Yoga Center sang songs from his inspirational album Warriors of the Rainbow. Dada Nabhaniilananda hails from New Zealand and has been a margi, an initiate of Ananda Marga, for many years. His ministry is through music, the common theme of which is love for the environment and enlightenment through Nature.

Guest speaker Kevin Castillon shared vital and urgent information on the problem of global warming which coincides with the theme of the International Earth Month. The talk focused on the current statistics of the effects of global warming on wildlife, aquatic resources, rainforests, and human life in general. Kevin Castillon is a member of a local environmental advocacy group that goes from company to company to encourage the formulation of management guidelines that take environmental concerns into consideration.

TERRA is the first major activity of Cebu Paranormal Society. The event was a success, as it helped forge a link between kindred groups who are not only geared to attaining spiritual enlightenment but also passionate about the welfare of the planet. Cebu Paranormal Society plans to make it a yearly event.

© 2007 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Tibetan Rituals for the Lunar New Year

2007-02-07T13:50:00.000+08:00

Philippine Palyul Nyingma Buddhist Center
Address: 73 Biak na Bato street corner Don Manuel street, Sto. Domingo, Q.C.
Contact Info: 09209134035 / 7121022 / fax 7318746
Website: www.palyul.org

You are cordially invited to join the following rituals for welcoming better New Year. Interested participants may register on or before 16 Feb 2007 with lamas in Palyul Nyingma Center.

Registration fee for individual person – Php 250/name
Registration fee for business, factory or company – Php 2,500/name

Puja Schedule:

15 Feb 2007 – Vajra Kilaya Ritual – 6 PM
For the removal of demonic, non-human spirits and obstacles; purification of negative karma; increase merit, wisdom, luck and fortune.

16 Feb 2007 – Amitayu (Long Life) and Chi Lhu Puja – 6 PM
For extending the life force or long life and Lhu ritual for the removal of past year’s negativity, bad karma, obscuration, sickness, demonic spirit and welcoming the New Year.

Note: Please prepare some personal items for CHI LHU puja such as hair locks, nail clippings and old clothing for the convenience of making substitutes to precede the ritual. Please bring the items to the center before 16 Feb 2007.

18 Feb 2007 – Lunar New Year – 7 AM
Guru Rinpoche Long Life Blessing with dharma pills by Samten Rinpoche at 7 AM

Philippine Nedo Kagyu Bodhi Dharma Center
Address: 540 Mag. Abad Santos street, Bacood, Sta. Mesa, Manila
Contact Info: 7145553
For more information, visit www.nedobodhicenter.org

14 Feb 2007 – Grand Mahakala Puja – 7 PM
15 Feb 2007 – Grand Mahakala Puja – 7 PM
16 Feb 2007 – Grand Mahakala day Tsok Puja

17 Feb 2007 – Chi Lhu Puja (Eliminating Obstacles) – 3 PM
Note: Participants need to bring cut nails, hairs, sweat in a small cloth and rub dough on the body except the forehead area / pressed with one's finger, pack in a paper and submit.

18 Feb 2007 - Lunar New Year Blessing Puja – 10 AM

Phil. Wiccan Society’s Spiritual Awareness Seminar

2006-12-15T16:26:00.000+08:00

By Kether W.
Photos Provided by Ishilta

After almost a month of rigorous planning and non-stop coffee talks, the Philippine Wiccan Society (PWS) finally completed its 1st Module entitled “Spiritual Awareness: Towards A Healthy Outlook of Oneself.” The module was finally introduced to the new members of the PWS family last November 25. Chatte, Gilbert, Bevi and Joan with her friend Marigold participated in the discussions. Guest Speaker Grace Sevilla offered a short meditation exercise at the end of the session.

The module was conceptualized and delivered by Guest Speaker Rene Espinosa (member of Nginig Psychics), with the help of Flora, Nap, and valuable inputs from the new members. The module is probably the first of its kind as the lessons were patterned to discuss philosophy-spirituality, making a sound and healthy concept of love, faith, and devotion. Kether W. spearheaded the project with support from the PWS co-founder Pixie Serrano and council members Ishilta, Cheron, and Vince.

The first module marks the start of a series of modules to be offered as short courses to PWS members early next year. Special thanks to Bevi who offered her place for this very special occasion. Interested individuals may join at the Phil. Wiccan Society Yahoogroup.

© 2006 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Mandala-Writing with the Peacemakers’ Circle

2006-12-05T03:01:00.000+08:00

By Ishilta
Photos Provided by The Peacemakers' Circle

The Peacemakers’ Circle in partnership with Byakko Shinko Kai-Philippines, a peace movement originated in Japan, held its free monthly mandala-writing and Divinity-In workshop last November 19, 2006 at the Peacemakers’ Interfaith Dialogue Center in Katipunan. It was facilitated by Mr. Mario “Toots” Fungo and was joyfully participated by ten individuals.

The first part was the mandala-writing activity. Mr. “Toots” discussed briefly the origin of mandala together with its use and the process of making it. According to him, mandala is an ancient art form adapted now as a fun and creative activity used to generate healing and positive energy for the benefit of the individual and all sentient beings. It comprises of several concentric circles where affirmations and prayers are written on it using pens and various coloring materials.

After a 45-minute mandala writing and a short merienda break generously provided by the Peacemaker’s Circle, the group proceeded to the second part which is Divinity-In. A brief introductory video was shown followed by a live demonstration and hands-on exercise. The manual defines Divinity In as a precise combination of breath, sound and movement performed specifically as a tool for helping individuals discover their full potential as divine beings. It is a universal prayer invocation with great benefits and can be practiced in alignment with any other spiritual practice one is currently engaged in.

It was truly a wonderful and enriching experience for all the participants. The same workshop was offered last December 2 at the Peacemakers’ office. For more info, please feel free to join the Peacemakers’ Circle Yahoogroup.

Cebu Paranormal Society’s Pre-Halloween Launch

2006-12-05T02:38:00.000+08:00

By Frozenstar & Ishilta
Photos Provided by Silverhawk

The nights before All-Saints-Day are usually considered busy nights as people prepare for the annual celebration of the feast. In Cebu, however, a different kind of preparation is underway, especially for the entire Visayas area.

On 28th of October 2006, Visayas marked the launching of the Cebu Paranormal Society (CPS) at Kahayag Cafe with a Psychic Fair. In this fair, practitioners shared their knowledge to others through free lectures, forums and orientation. Guest speakers were of top caliber, namely Professor Dulce Cuna of UP Tacloban and Rene Espinosa of the NGINIIIG Paranormal Investigation Team. Tarot and palm readings were offered to those who joined in.

It was a night of revel, music, and the arts. The venue flooded with alternative music and a number of art and dance performances. A mask contest was also held, dubbed as “Maskerada”, where the person with the most creative mask won a prize from Converse.

Launched for the benefit of interested individuals, the society, together with the pre-Halloween event, opened the doors to magick to the public in the Visayas. Broom closet people can now step out in the open and join an organization where their practices are not abhorred, but instead celebrated. Radical religious thinking is not limited, but instead openly discussed and shared.

This event was made possible through partnership with Kahayag Café, Converse, San Miguel Corporation and International Academy of Film and Television. For more info, log on to their website: http://cebuparanormal.multiply.com

© 2006 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Filipino Babaylanism at SUFI-ISIS

2006-09-26T08:51:00.000+08:00

By Ishilta

Last September 7, SUFI ISIS (Serve the Unicorn Fellowship Inc. – Integral Studies of Inner Sciences) once again celebrated the full moon with a free lecture on “Filipino Babaylan Mysticism” with guest speaker Bong dela Torre. Over 16 people came and participated.

Guest speaker Bong dela Torre describes Filipino Babaylanism as a powerful weapon waiting to be tapped and discovered. Perhaps his most striking remark was “hindi pa natin napanghahawakan ang kapangyarihan natin” [we haven’t yet taken hold of our own power] He believes that Babaylanism is part of the Filipino’s spiritual legacy and therefore we (Filipinos) should learn how to distill the lessons and wisdom of the past “hugutin ang mga aral ng nakaraan” [let us use the lessons of the past] to benefit both the future and the present.

In the lecture, Babaylanism was explicitly described as a feminine spiritual path where the practitioner (Babaylan) taps from the intuitive and creative powers of the Divine Feminine. Two important roles of the Babaylan were highlighted: (1) as a healer, and (2) as a divine messenger. The dark side of Babaylanism (i.e. barang, kulam) was also briefly discussed, as the speaker believes that the power to heal is also the same power to inflict harm to others. Different forms/expression of Babaylanism were also mentioned such as the mumbakki and albularyo, the latter being the living testament of this heritage on this very day.

The evening culminated to a drum beating session, which lasted for about 15 minutes. Right after the ceremony, participants were asked to share insights or images they might have received while listening to the drum beat. Most participants shared similar images described as a group of people dancing around a bonfire.

Other topics like past lives, the nature of illnesses, healing and protection rituals were also discussed.

Peacemaker’s Circle Ushered Opening Ceremony Of The National Peace Consciousness Month

2006-09-12T10:46:00.000+08:00

By Orlando de Guzman, Jr.

The Peacemakers’ Circle was invited once again to be part of the opening ceremonies of the National Peace Consciousness Month, now in its 3rd year. Initiated by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), it was held on September 1, 2006 at the Peace Bell monument of the Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC). This year’s theme is: “Kapayapaan, Atin Ito!” (Peace is Ours!)

As in the previous years, the ceremonial ringing of the Peace Bell and releasing of peace doves formally started the program and launched the month-long celebration. This year’s program was honored by the presence of her Excellency, Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, along with several other distinguished leaders: OPAPP Secretary Jesus Dureza, Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte, and Quezon City Parks Development Chairman, Atty. Charito Planas, among others.

The second part of the morning’s celebration was the “Kids for Peace” Program. Fifty kids from the Aurora-Quezon Elementary School were invited to the event. They were engaged in a demonstration class on one of the lessons contained in the Peace Education Teaching Exemplars – a collection of guide materials on teaching concepts and lessons on peace in elementary and secondary schools. These books were developed by OPAPP and the Department of Education.

After the demo class, both children and adults were invited to participate in several simultaneous activities held at three different booths within the area. One of these booths was assigned to the Peacemakers’ Circle, where an instructional class on T’ai Chi was conducted. A sampler of the ancient Chinese exercise was taught to the participants to promote body-mind harmony in one’s self and to highlight its significance in cultivating inner peace.

Another booth offered an Origami class. The Miriam College Center for Peace Education taught the art of folding paper into the shape of a Peace Crane – the symbol of peace from Japan and their cry for wars to end. The third booth offered an instruction class on the steps of the modern dance for peace, which was choreographed, performed and taught by the OPPAP staff and kids.

Towards the end, both kids and adults alike had an enjoyable experience as they learned creative and fun ways of promoting and nurturing peace.

We invite everyone to participate in any of the peace activities of different peace groups within the month of September and to be likewise conscious of the spirit of peace for always.

How Has Paganism Affected Your Family Relationships?

2006-08-24T07:31:00.000+08:00

By Manggagaway Contributors

Religion affects everything in our lives. What we believe influences the way we think, speak, write, even what we eat. A simple triangle, for example, may represent something different for Catholics and Buddhists. Have you ever heard a Muslim say “Merry Meet”? Or seen a Krishna eat meat?

But no other aspect in our lives does religion affect us most profoundly than in the relationships we create and maintain. Exactly how is subject to a deeper dissertation, but for starters, we asked our staff and contributors the following questions:

How has paganism affected your relationship with your family?

Or if your family doesn't know that you're pagan, how has paganism changed the way you see your family members?

This is how they answered:

Well it affects us in good ways. Like of course tarot is essential to a witch… so I hold 5 tarot decks and my mother sometimes asks me to give her a reading when she has a problem. So that’s how it affects us in good ways.

The bad thing is that I failed in one of my subjects in school. It affects my studies in bad ways sometimes. But mostly it serves us good things.

- John Paolo Garcia

I came from a Christian oriented family and yes they don't know that I am in fact a pagan. Well, technically they don't because I am in complete denial to such practices...but I can't deny they’re suspicious though...a couple times I got caught with my ritual tools but just what shaggy always says..."WASN'T ME!"

Unlike most pagans, my conversion was really a tough one. Somehow I can say that things aren't they way it used to be when I was still a Christian. My understanding has widened and my beliefs became more of ideals and for once, I can say I am finally living my faith. But probably the one thing that changed the way I see my family is the way I look at my relationship with them. In the past I was used to the concept of "the family that prays together stays together" and I was comfortable with that kind of set up. But everything changed when I became a pagan, I started to look for meaning in relationships. I started to raise questions, advocate my rights to religion, what was going on, why are you in complete denial of this and that...dark secrets...and things that I wasn't 'expected' to ask my family.

They say enlightenment has a price...and I guess my case is no exception. I can't deny the gap I’ve made over the years between me, my parents, and the rest of the family. Ever since I got involved in dark committees and late night journeys, I have been branded the "big-black-toad-in-the-witches-kitchen" by most of my relatives. I was harshly judged by the people whom I expected to be on my side in this matter. And yes, I can't also deny the sleepless nights thinking of running away, sinister thoughts of joining Bin Laden just to give my dad a heart attack. But somehow over the years of practicing the ancient ways I came to learn how to blend with my family. Come to think of it, being the black toad wasn't a bad thing after all, at least now I came to know my family better.

– Kether

I've proven by experience that changing one's spiritual preference isn't easy as changing one's clothes. From the very beginning, I already anticipated my parents’ reactions once they find out that their only begotten son, who has been very religious his whole pre-pubescent life, is now a pagan.

I recalled during the earlier times when I really had to keep my practices and ritual equipment as clandestine as possible to avoid non-stop quarrels with my very patient and understanding father. Even if I managed to escape Sunday mass, I surely wouldn't miss my dad's daily gospel. Mom, on the other hand, secretly talked to our guidance counselor, hoping to save her son from something she thought was "devilish."

After proving to them that my new found spirituality is beneficial (a series of A's and grades not below 83), they didn't bother me anymore. Now you will be surprised to know that my mom is reading my witchy books during her free times.

– Ishilta

Being a Pagan is not bad as it sounds. Pagans sometimes are more refined compared to other people who don't believe in it. For it is in Paganism that I understood the meaning of life and death as well, and in here I learned to develop my well being and keeping my spirituality intact.

But I have to admit that I am not truly a Pagan for reasons that only my friends and my co-members of my group know. I am not against Paganism but I just choose not to. My mother knew a bit about my practice though, and so does my siblings. My father, on the other hand doesn't know about it nor does he believe in my abilities. I merge my psychic ability with my knowledge in the craft and together it helps to bring harmony in our lives. And since most of my family members are psychics, I use it to ward spirits that sometimes distract and frighten my two younger sisters. But I've since laid low for quite sometime now. Though I used to manipulate things around the house for luck to be in our favor.

– Noel Origenes

Well, there are advantages and disadvantages to every decision, especially something as major as religion in our culture. But respect is one of the cornerstones of any good relationships, and as long as “ye harm none,” including yourself, you’ll be just fine.

How has YOUR beliefs affected your family relationships? Take some time to think about it.

© 2006 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Rebirth Of Manggagaway

2006-08-07T08:25:00.000+08:00

By Ishilta

It has been a rollercoaster ride for the management and staff of Manggagaway since its website premiere on yule of 2003. Starting off with free webhosting at Yahoo! Geocities, it was then transferred to a US-based web hosting company last February 2005. There it earned its own domain name: www.manggagaway.com.

In partnership with the Philippine Wiccan Society, Manggagaway covered the Fullybooked’s oracle fest entitled “Bewitch, Beguile, Enchant” in May 2004 at the PowerPlant Mall. It had also successfully thrown a benefit concert-party at Tajma Restaurant in Katipunan on Ostara of 2005. This concert was used to finance the website’s second term. Manggagaway Contributors’ Center in Yahoo! Groups was also launched, including its very own Friendster account, which is still very much active to this day. A raffle promo was also held as a means of gaining extra resources. Winners will be announced on the relaunch of the main site.

“Expansion plans of the website have failed to be implemented primarily due to very limited resources, both human and financial wise. You know it’s hard to maintain a cause like this without support and back-ups,” said Ishilta, founder and managing editor. There has been a decline in the number of writer and staff volunteers for the past year, which resulted in the website’s sudden inactivity. Add to this the unfinished website design and lay-out, which hampered the entire publication process.

Now with its new innovation, Manggagaway brings you Manggagaway Central: Your Ultimate Guide to the Filipino-Pagan Community. In it’s blog form, Manggagaway Central promises to bring you the latest updates on the Filipino-pagan community such as workshops, seminars, gatherings and press releases. Also, Manggagaway Central is expected to showcase a number of original pinoy write-ups every month, both new and selected archives -- all of this while waiting for the relaunch of the main site.

Special thanks to Mr. Damonsteine for the new logo and to Selfshift for helping me edit the news articles.

Lightnet Sought Understanding On the Neopagan Revival

2006-08-07T08:24:00.001+08:00

By Ishilta

Photos Provided by LightNet

With the popularity of occult-fantasy genres among the media, more and more people, particularly the youth, were becoming engrossed and drawn to the study and practice of magick, witchcraft and the paranormal. In the local scene, this has been largely triggered with the cable rerun of the movie The Craft, the local TV premiere of Charmed and the movie premiere and publication of the Harry Potter series.

As a result, a significant number of covens and magickal circles have been formed in all parts of the archipelago at a rapid rate. Researchers fear that certain practices and ethics drawn from ‘ancient’ practices, some of which are no longer applicable in modern-day society, might be taken out of context due to youthful aggressive eagerness and haste to learn.

To shed light to this matter, Lightnet Inc in partnership with the Ageless Wisdom Library hosted a free lecture on “Understanding the Neo Pagan Revival” conducted by the Soul Guide Fraternity last July 23 at the Ageless Wisdom Library in Mandaluyong City. Ten attendees came despite of the rain.

Mr. Jay Luna of Soul Guide conducting a lecture

Mr. Jay Luna shaking hands with Mr. Christopher See of Lightnet

The lecture was intended to address the issues that accompany the on going occult trend in the local scale as well as provide insights for the better understanding of this phenomenon. Mr. Jay Luna of Soul Guide discussed an introduction to Wicca and High Magick.

© 2006 Manggagaway E-magazine. Articles may be distributed freely on the condition that all accreditation is acknowledged, no part is altered and this notice is attached and the website: http://manggagaway-central.blogspot.com/ is included.

Reclaim Your Birthright Through Sahaja Yoga

2006-08-07T08:24:00.000+08:00

By Ishilta

One of the golden doors to self-realization has been made available to the public for the last five weeks as Sahaja Yoga Inc. offered a free seminar series on sahaja yoga at the University of the Philippines’ Consunji Hall UPAA, Ang Bahay ng Alumni. Originally scheduled on Tuesday evenings, the seminar was moved to Wednesdays.

Founded by an Indian named Shri Mataji in the 1970’s, Sahaja yoga promises a unique experience of self-realization through a simplistic technique of safely awakening the Kundalini. She revolutionizes the concept of yoga and made ancient knowledge available to all who desires it. She firmly believes that self-realization is everyone’s birthright.

Unlike other forms of yoga, Sahaja doesn’t require asanas or rigid visualization exercises to practice it. It teaches an effortless technique to safely awaken kundalini and thus establish union with the cosmic consciousness. Regular practice brings tremendous benefits such as healing, inner peace and a sense of well-being.

Topics on kundalini, the chackras and the subtle body were discussed in the five-week course. Techniques on cleansing and balancing the energy body as well as method of self-protection were also taught. Guided meditations were performed every after the talk.

Today, Sahaja Yoga is practiced by thousands of people in more than 85 countries in the world. It is non sectarian and can be practiced by everyone regardless of class, culture, race and religion. For more info and updates on Sahaja Yoga seminars, please visit http://www.sahajayoga-ph.com

July Healing Workshop Trilogy

2006-08-07T08:22:00.000+08:00

By Ishilta

July 1 – The Power of Touch

We have the power to heal and transform lives. Even a simple touch of our hands can work wonders. Humanity’s Team Philippines, together with certified reiki practitioners led by Mr. Noel Resella, unearthed the secrets of the power of touch last July 1, 2006. Held at the Penthouse of Wilson’s Place, Greenhills, this life-changing seminar was held absolutely free of charge.

More than twenty individuals from all walks of life came and participated. Attendees were taught how to sensitize the hands; feel and see prana; and access and use healing energy for everyday life application. They were also able to identify and address personal issues through group discussions led by certified reiki practitioners. Each and everyone underwent several guided exercises that culminated to a group world healing meditation.

Participants went home with a bunch of gifts and prizes ranging from crystal pendants to aromatic massage oils. Many thanks to Ms. Cleo, who generously provided the aroma oil give-aways, and to Mr. Wilson, owner of Woodberry shop, who sponsored the delicious herbal drink and the venue.

Humanity’s Team Philippines is a non-profit civic organization for the soul. The group holds regular outreach programs, services and group study sessions. Log in to their website at http://www.humanitysteamphilippines.20m.com

July 16 – Emotional Healing Workshop

Emotions were divided and conquered last July 16 when Mr. Noel Resella conducted the second installment of his healing seminar series at the Penthouse of Wilson’s Place in Greenhills.

Topics include the nature of emotions, correlation between emotions and the physical body, ways to manage emotions, and techniques on how to heal and transform the negative. Discussions regarding these topics were interspersed with numerous exercises and guided meditations.

July 23 – Introduction To Reiki

The mysteries of reiki were finally revealed in the final installment of the July healing seminar series conducted by Mr. Noel Resella last July 23 at the same venue in Greenhills.

Attendees absorbed a brief history on reiki and listened on to some testimonials from people who were helped by it. They were particularly interested about the applications of reiki, one of which is the healing of the various aspects of one’s life. This includes relationships, career and home. A group healing session followed the talk.