July 2004 Dear Asian Pacific Islander Ministry Leader:

1. July 2004 • Dear Asian Pacific Islander Ministry Leader: • Greetings of peace and joy. I hope everything is well with you and your ministry. • Thank you for all that you do for the people of God and the Filipino community. We are very grateful for your prayers for the success of our work and the expressed cooperation of your ministry in our efforts to revitalize the Filipino-Americans. • The United States Filipino Catholic Ministries Council (USFCMC) Executive Committee is in the process of organizing a convocation in the United States of all Filipino priests, religious, and deacons on September 3, 2004 and Filipino lay parish leaders on September 4, 2004. The venue will be at my parish, St. George Church, 505 North Palm Avenue, Ontario CA 91762. • The objectives of the convocation are as follows: • To hold a meeting of the USFCMC in the evening of September 3rd in order to follow up and finalize the proposed plan of actions and discuss possible regional endeavors. • To discuss and firm up possible collaborations with Bishop Oscar Solis with regards to the Filipino Ministry in the United States. • To initiate and continue a process of understanding our Filipino values and religiosity in the context of US Church. • To identify issues and concerns among Filipino-American faithful in • relation to the USCCB Pastoral Statements: Welcoming Strangers in our Midst: Unity In Diversity and Asian Pacific Presence: Harmony and Faith. • To present, discuss and finalize USFCMC Vision/Mission, goals and • objectives, and Constitution and By-Laws. • The USFCMC Executive Committee is requesting and will be honored if you could participate in the two-day convocation. The Filipino Ministry of the Diocese of San Bernardino is hosting this event. We have very limited funds at this time and would like to appeal for your support in terms of a registration fee of $15.00. It will cover the meals, snacks and materials. We have enclosed a convocation brochure, registration form, accommodation and travel guide for your additional information. • Thank you in advance for your consideration. • Sincerely in Jesus, Mary and Joseph • Rev. Arturo J. Monzon-Balagat • National Consultant, Filipino Apostolate • Pastoral Care for Migrants & Refugees/MRS/USCCB The United States Filipino Catholic Ministries Council is committed to serve the diocesan Filipino ministries by promoting Filipino spirituality And culture, and by supporting effective leadership and networking that enrich the life and mission of the United States Church.