BISHOP PÍO CARLOS ESPINA LEUPOLD
HISTORIC VISIT TO THE PHILIPPINES AND ASIA
12 OCTOBER – 2 NOVEMBER, 2023
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HIS EXCELLENCY, BISHOP PÍO ESPINA
Consecrated by Bishop Martín Dávila on February 16, 2022 at the Request of Bishop Mark Pivarunas, CMRI
Visiting the Philippines and Other Asian Missions for the First Time from October 12 to November 2, 2023
He Introduced the Intention and Motivation for the Visit:
“MY PURPOSE IN COMING HERE IS TO HELP YOU TO KNOW AND LOVE GOD MORE.”
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The Most Holy Trinity Mission presents the following memorable photos and valuable lessons/exhortations taught by His Excellency during the providential Episcopal Visit. This is done to commemorate the happy and blessed visit, and to promote the Love of God and that of His [whole] Truth and Doctrine. It also aims to help and encourage the faithful to persevere. Matthew 24: 12–13 *
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1. ARRIVAL, FIRST MASS AND OUR LADY OF LUJÁN
After traveling for almost 40 hours and covering a distance of more than 18,000 kilometers (from Argentina to Manila), Bishop Pio Espina arrived at the Chapel of the Most Holy Trinity on October 12, 2023. Not wanting to miss the opportunity to say Holy Mass, he took a brief rest and said a private (evening) Mass in honor of Our Lady of Lujan, Patroness of Argentina, whose feast day was celebrated that day. Wearing the blue vestments (in Masses of Our Lady) is a privilege for the Spanish dominions; hence it is used in the Philippines. [The Virgin of Lujan is a 17th century miraculous image of the Immaculate Conception.]
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2. WARM WELCOME AND AT HOME IN ASIA
MISSION’S OFFICIAL WELCOME
The (sky) blue and white colors of the balloons represent the flag of Argentina. The white, yellow, red and blue colors of the banner represent the Philippine flag (the red color was changed to purple/magenta to represent the “bishop’s color”).
His Excellency was warmly received in all the Missions that were visited, as each host also made special preparations for the rare occasion. In the Philippines, an Official Welcome Lunch was hosted at a Chinese Restaurant on October 15, 2023 (sponsored by a generous heart). He seemed to be fascinated with Asia, especially the Chinese culture, and the respectful/humble bow greeting.
In the Philippines, he learned the custom of “mano” (Spanish word which means “hand”) – the person would get the hand of the elderly or priest and put it on the forehead – a beautiful symbolism of love and respect, and such a humble way to ask for one’s blessing.
He learned to use chopsticks for the first time, and would always be served with fresh “buko” (coconut) juice, especially to refresh him after each [Mission] trip. The Bishop traveled a lot during the three weeks that he was here; sufficient rest had to be allocated, especially to help him adjust to the 11-hour time difference.
The Bishop said that we should be good citizens by loving our own country. But the Church is above any country and all nations for that matter. How much more that we should love and belong to the Church!
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3. CONFERENCE AND DAILY SERMONS
His Excellency gave a Conference on the Sacrament of Confirmation [October 15, 2023]. He explained that there are three Sacraments that leave an indelible mark in the soul (thus, they are received only once in life): Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders. The Sacrament of Confirmation makes us soldiers of Christ, and bestows upon the recipient the Seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost.
“God is our Father in Heaven, the best Father in the world. He only wants the best for His children. Let us be humble and patient. Our Lord did not ask us to perform miracles like He did, because He knows we cannot do that. But He asked us to be like Him, meek and humble of Heart.”
Bishop Espina would (almost) always give [short] daily sermons whenever he is in a Mission, regardless of the number of faithful present. This gave a lot of motivation for the faithful as the instructions were simple and practical, and yet affirms the basic truths of our Faith.
The basic/constant theme of his sermons are as follows:
1. How to keep and increase in the Love of God;
2. How the faithful can persevere amidst difficult situation;
3. How we should always follow the Magisterium of the Church.
The Bishop insists that we should do everything for the Love of God, and to have the habit of living in His Presence. In all things, whatever we are doing, whether we work, eat or even drink a glass of water – let us keep the Holy Presence of God, and do all for the Love of God.
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4. SACRAMENTALS
Blessing and Imposition of the Brown Scapular and Miraculous Medal on the Faithful
(Click on the photos if they appear too small.)
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The Green Scapular
The Congregation to which Bishop Espina belongs, Mater Dei Institute, makes Green Scapulars – while having a cup of Mate tea (a popular South American herb)! He has particular devotion to this sacramental and believes in its efficacy; he himself witnessed numerous miracles attributed to it, especially with the dying. He would always bring many when he is traveling and give to people and faithful whenever there is good opportunity. (He would simply ask the person if he/she would like to accept/keep it; there is no requirement to wear it around the neck, but simply put inside the wallet, etc..) The reasons for giving the Green Scapular are: For Conversion, Healing and a Good Death. It is also a means to promote devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and ask for Her Triumph.
Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us now and at the hour of our death!
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5. THE MOST BLESSED SACRAMENT
Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament
A Monthly Devotion of the Mission as an Act of Love and Reparation
The Bishop would always visit the Blessed Sacrament – to say his Breviary prayers, his Rosary, upon leaving and returning back to the Chapel. Many of our priests do the same, and it is edifying to see such simple and yet consistent/fervent devotion.
On the Feast of Christ the King (Oct. 29, 2023), he explained how Laicism has taken away God from the Society, and converted the State into God. Peace is the tranquility of order – and there can be no peace without Christ. Christ is King of the intelligence, of the wills, and of the hearts; and His dignity is a consequence of the Hypostatic Union. We must therefore obey His Law, His Commandments; and we are going to be judged by Him.
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6. THE HOLY ROSARY
His Excellency Leading the Rosary at the Chapel
The Bishop would usually lead the Holy Rosary before Mass (especially when there are no confessions in the afternoon). He would close the prayers with the Litany of Our Lady (in Latin), Prayer to St. Joseph and the Angelus. There is no doubt that he is a “Rosary Bishop” – he would pray it himself, and preach it incessantly!
He always counsels that we should persevere, as Our Lord said. And that we could persevere by praying our morning and evening prayers, the Angelus, the daily Rosary, etc. The Rosary is our [primary] weapon to persevere, and that we should live the Holy Rosary in our lives:
• Joyful Mysteries – the example of simple sanctifying life; the practice of (domestic) virtues like humility, etc.;
• Sorrowful Mysteries – willingly accept and take the daily cross [Our Lord’s example]; sin must be ‘paid’ by sacrifice, by pain and sorrow;
• Glorious Mysteries – the hope of eternal life.
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7. THE WELCOME AND GUIDANCE OF OUR LADY
Nuestra Señora de Guía [Our Lady of Guidance]
The oldest Marian image found and venerated in the Philippines [1571]
1. His Excellency inside the Shrine of Our Lady of Guidance
2. The interior of San Agustin Church (Oct. 16, 2023)
The maternal guidance and care of the Blessed Mother throughout His Excellency’s stay in the Mission can be perceived. How She provided for everything that’s needed, arranged all schedules, up to the smallest details – including the colors of the flowers that were delivered (shades of the “Bishop’s color” purple), even to the making of this Photo Album! To Her be the honor, glory and thanksgiving!
When the Bishop was visiting Intramuros, the trip was like “taken off course” when the sudden thought of visiting FIRST the (oldest) Shrine of Our Lady, Nuestra Señora de Guía, was decided midway. The black Madonna, depicted as the Immaculate Conception, is enshrined at the Ermita Church (Manila) and is locally venerated as patroness of navigators and travelers. The Bishop (and his companion) were able to pray in the sanctuary, near the image of Our Lady, and ask for Her blessing!
When in Intramuros already, His Excellency was impressed by the magnificent San Agustin Museum, and saw the admirable work of the Spanish Missionaries in the Philippines. And as if another sign of Mary’s welcome, he was very surprised to see the Church of San Agustin decorated with “Argentinian flag banners”!
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8. CONFIRMATIONS – CAGAYAN DE ORO
[Oct. 23 – 24, 2023]
One Confirmation was administered in Cagayan de Oro Mission (CDO)
1. The Mission’s Monthly Requiem Mass was offered in CDO on October 23, 2023;
2. His Excellency relaxing by the bay and admiring the majestic sea!
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Mission Host’s Message:
The Bishop said that the reason why we are celebrating Mass in a hotel room and not in a church is because we stand for the TRUTH. The statement made a profound impact, and we should continue fighting for the Truth even if we do not have the numbers.
His Excellency is easy to get along with. He appreciates everything, and is very accommodating. He smiles and laughs (like there’s no crisis). It encouraged us to be [more] hopeful and positive in life.
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9. CONFIRMATIONS – SINGAPORE
[Oct. 18 – 20, 2023]
Singapore and Vietnam welcomed His Excellency
(Click on the photos if they appear too small.)
Three Faithful from Vietnam flew in to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation
Preaching the Faith in one of the most advanced cities in the world
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The Vietnamese faithful, filled with gratitude and joy, posted this message:
O my God! I thank You for bestowing upon me the grace of receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation according to the proper Rite of the Catholic Church.
This proper Rite of the Holy Church, which was received by all Bishops, the faithful, and the Saints in early days of Holy Church, sadly, was modified in 1969 after the Second Vatican Council.
I am determined to remain faithful to the Word of God and loyal to the Apostolic Holy Catholic Church which Jesus established on Earth. Amen.
Lord, You are my God; I offer You countless words of gratitude; I honor You with endless praise. (Psalm 117:28)
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Mission Host’s Message:
The following is what Bishop Pio told us:
1. Every moment of our life, God is in front of us. So we must offer our thoughts, words and works towards God.
2. Our duty in this life is [only] to praise and thank God for all He has given us. We should not stop praying.
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10. CONFIRMATIONS – MANILA [LAS PIÑAS CITY]
[Oct. 29, 2023 | Feast of Christ the King]
Everything was beautiful and majestic during the Confirmation ceremony (even the Bishop himself!).
When pointed out to him, he replied: Because the Church is majestic!
The Altar was beautifully decorated for the Occasion
A total of Fifteen Faithful were Confirmed in Las Piñas City [Central] Mission
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(Click on the following photos to enlarge. Please note that they are not according to the ceremony’s chronological order.)
1. Explaining the Sacrament | 2. Singing of the hymn, Veni Creator Spiritus | 3. Exhorting the Confirmands
4. "May the Holy Ghost come upon you..." | 5. "Confirm, O Lord, that which Thou hast wrought in us..." | 6. "...Send forth upon them the Paraclete from Heaven."
7. "I sign thee with the Sign of the Cross +." | 8. The Sponsor places his/her right hand on the shoulder of the Confirmand. | 9. "And I Confirm thee with the Chrism of Salvation..."
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Special Thanks
From Left to Right: Fr. Julián Espina, María del Pilar Espina and María Lujan Espina
The Most Holy Trinity Mission acknowledges with love and gratitude the generosity and kindness of the siblings of Bishop Espina who offered to be Sponsors for the (willing) Confirmands.
¡Muchas gracias y que Dios los bendiga!
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VIVA CRISTO REY!
“Our Lord Jesus Christ is the Truth.”
After the Mass of Christ the King, the Act of Consecration [of the Human Race] to the Sacred Heart of Jesus was recited by the Bishop together with the congregation (the Prayer was composed by Pope Leo XIII and promulgated by Pope Pius XI).
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“Love the truth. Love and keep the whole doctrine of Christ.”
His Excellency would always remind that we should love the Truth, and that there is no need to invent new doctrine. We have 2,000 years of Church History and Magisterium; everything had been revealed.
He explains the dogma of Papal Infallibility without complication, but with utmost certainty: “No one else in the Church had been given the gift of Infallibility except the Pope. It is not the question of “If the Pope should err;” HE COULD NOT ERR – BECAUSE OF THE PRAYER AND PROMISE OF OUR LORD.* He could commit sin, but not err in matters of Faith and Morals. If the Pope failed, that is because he is not the Pope.”
The Bishop would also correct the wrong behavior of “resisting or disobeying” the Pope: “(True) Popes are always to be loved and obeyed.”
The Dogma of Papal Infallibility is the fundamental reason why Catholics rightly reject Vatican II and its so-called popes.
* (Speaking to Peter, Jesus said): But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. (Luke 22:32)
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11. SAINT PHILOMENA & THE NEEDS OF THE MISSION
St. Philomena, Virgin and Martyr, Pray for us!
Statue of St. Philomena in Mary Immaculate Church [Omaha, Nebraska (CMRI)]
The Mission offered a Votive Mass in honor of St. Philomena on October 30, 2023 as an Act of [public] Thanksgiving for the graces she obtained in answer to the Novena made in August this year. Considering all circumstances, there is no doubt that His Excellency’s visit was made possible only through the intercession of the Saint! In the Mass, the Bishop talked about the examples in the life of St. Philomena, her virtues and her merits.
Fr. Gerard McKee, CMRI, holding the Miraculous Image of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga
(Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga, Patroness of Cavite)
The oldest Marian painting in the Philippines [1667] depicting the Mother of Sorrows
A miracle of grace, one event that led to another: Toward the end of the visit of Fr. Krysov in July this year, it became evident that the Mission needed to address some pressing concerns. The Mission was thus inspired/led to make the Novena to St. Philomena. And anticipating the visit of Fr. Gerard in August this year, both Fr. Krysov and the (main) host wrote a Letter addressed to His Excellency, Bishop Mark Pivarunas. The Letter (which was coursed through Fr. Gerard) outlined the principal accomplishments of the Mission and its appeal for Episcopal assistance (as only the assistance of a Bishop would resolve the difficulties).
Fr. Gerard then texted all the religious he knows in South America to pray for the Mission. It was during this occasion that Bishop Espina responded with his offer to visit the Philippines and Asia! (The intercession of the Blessed Mother under Her two titles was also (privately) invoked: Our Lady of Sorrows and Mediatrix of All Graces.)
The Most Holy Trinity Mission hereby acknowledges with love and gratitude all the kind assistance of Fr. Gerard McKee who had been instrumental in many ways in providing essential support for the furtherance of the Mission’s work.
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12. THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS
Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces
Refuge of Sinners and Queen of All Saints
The dogma of the Communion of Saints is something very close to the heart of His Excellency. It is a common subject in his discourses, and which is something he impresses vividly in the minds of his hearers.
On the Feast of All Saints (Nov. 1, 2023), he illustrated not only the oneness of the Church Triumphant (Heaven), Church Militant (Earth) and Church Suffering (Purgatory), but also the oneness of the Church of Christ on earth. How we are all united in the bond of faith and charity.
As the Gospel narrated the Beatitudes, the Bishop put forth the incomparable examples we have in the life and person of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the “Son of Mary.” And he mentioned the examples we have in the lives of the Saints – how many examples God gave us to follow! Yet, they all have one thing in common: They all loved God.
The Bishop also constantly reminds that we should profit by the time given to us. And we should ask ourselves always: What for?
(Click on the photos if they appear too small.)
1. Conditional Baptism (Oct. 13, 2023) because of very doubtful Novus Ordo baptism;
2. Susana Ilagan, first and oldest member of the parish, meeting His Excellency to receive the Sacraments. It was after her Novena to Our Lady of Good Success that the (CMRI) Mission started in the Philippines;
3. The 15th Confirmand (Nov. 1, 2023). A visitor from South Carolina served Mass and assisted during the ceremony.
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In his monthly bulletin, Per Ipsum, His Excellency wrote: The experience of the entire trip was very edifying, and it is very clear the dogma of the Communion of Saints. In all remote places I have been, you see “one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism.” The Church is Catholic not only in its geographical universality but also historical, in that it is the same one founded almost 2000 years ago by Our Lord Jesus Christ, without any blemish of error. That is because of the promise of Our Lord Himself: “I will be with you until the end of time” and “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
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“We are not growing any group: We are growing the Church!”
Bishop Espina in broadening correct perception of the Church among traditionalists.
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13. FAREWELL AND OUR LADY OF THE “O”
(Click on the photos if they appear too small.)
1. The Bishop liked the durian!
2. The Philippine Mission officially gifted His Excellency with a (pocket) dry seal bearing his coat of arms, and a coffee-table book featuring Philippine Churches.
3. A holy card (“istampita” in Tagalog) depicting Our Lady of the “O” which the Bishop uses in his Breviary.
Our Lady of the “O” depicts the Blessed Virgin Mary as pregnant with the Child Jesus (also called Our Lady of the Expectation). This image of Our Lady was the basis for the Argentinian flag: The blue and white colors [of the flag] are from the colors of Her mantle and dress, and the Sun [of Justice] represents Our Lord in Her womb.
On November 2, 2023, His Excellency offered three (consecutive) Masses in the morning in Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed. More than half of the Chapel was filled with the faithful that attended and wished to bid him goodbye, and a “despedida” lunch was shared together.
Then His Excellency blessed the religious items/rosaries of the faithful, and gave a last exhortation. All the faithful present were very happy and felt the grace of God; somehow it felt like how the Apostles must have felt when our Lord bade them farewell (and ascended into Heaven).
At 4:30 pm, the Rosary was prayed with His Excellency, and the hymn Magnificat was sung in thanksgiving for the fruitful Mission. After which he departed for Argentina, having fulfilled the purpose of his visit: To help [us] to know and love God more!
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Deo Gratias et Laus Tibi Christe!
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Persevere, Persevere, Persevere…!
Let us bless God in all things (whether there is Mass or no Mass, etc…).
God always hears our prayers. Sometimes the answer is delayed, but they are always answered.
Our highest goal is the Love of God.
We become what we love: If we love the world, we become worldly; If we love God, we become [like unto] God.
[ Bishop Espina ]
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CONCLUSION: A MESSAGE OF THANKS
The Chapel of the Most Holy Trinity gives praise and thanks to the Immaculate Heart of Mary for all the graces bestowed upon the Mission during this (unforeseen) visit of His Excellency, Bishop Pío Espina Leupold.
The Episcopal Visit proved to be historic (that is, having a great and lasting importance): It edified the faithful, encouraged the missions, and increased the bond of faith and unity among the scattered flock. In Her mercy and goodness, the Queen of Heaven deigned to give us a [new] Shepherd upon whom we can look for guidance and strength. What blessed gift we have!
The Most Holy Trinity Mission gratefully acknowledges the love and kindness that His Excellency displayed by traveling to the Far East, in caring for [our] souls, and assisting with the needs of the Mission. It was an (undeserved) honor and privilege to meet such a Prelate; and we are mutually blessed to have been part of such a beautiful experience! May his words and examples lead more souls closer to Our Lord – priests and faithful alike.
Your Excellency, we are very grateful and we hope to see you again soon!
The Mission would like to extend also its deepest thanks to all its friends, faithful and benefactors who helped, prayed and contributed to make this visit a happy and successful one. Special thanks to all the hosts who have opened not only their homes, but most especially their hearts, to provide a place for Christ our King. Ad Multos Annos!
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The Veranda of the Chapel was decorated to Welcome His Excellency, Bishop Pío Espina.
May the Lord of Heaven and Earth bestow upon His servant blessing and protection for the sake of His Church, and deign that his Shepherd’s staff guide and govern us.
Our Lady of La Salette, Pray for us!
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* And because iniquity hath abounded, the charity of many shall grow cold.
But he that shall persevere to the end, he shall be saved.
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Published on 21st November, 2023, this Photo Album is dedicated to the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple.
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Chapel of the Most Holy Trinity 