Mindanao priests to bring DCM experience in respective parishes

“I will bring the spirit of joy in our experience in the ministry in the parish and in our apostolates.”

This is what Fr. Ian Conturno said, administrator of St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay when asked about the recently concluded Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao (DCM) Convention hosted by the Archdiocese of Davao, February 9 to 11.

He said he looks forward to next year’s DCM Convention which will be hosted by the Kidapawan, Marbel and Cotabato (KIDMACO) subregion.

The clergy of Mindanao went home to their respective dioceses bringing with them the learning and experience coming from the input of Orlando Cardinal Quevedo and the different activities prepared for their delight.

“DCM is important for me because it reminds me of ministry as priest. It is also meaningful to have it this year as it resounds the call of the Pope for mercy and compassion,” said Fr. Jefil Callego from the Diocese of Marbel.

Another priest from the Diocese of Marbel said he has been looking forward to join the DCM convention since the time he was ordained in October 2014.

“As a new priest, it’s very inspiring for me to join the DCM Convention. It’s worth remembering. It allows me to deepen my ministry and it strengthens the camaraderie with my fellow priests,” said Fr. Regie Peñol.

“DCM is important and meaningful for me because it gives me the updates on what is happening in Mindanao as a whole. The updates I get also help me on how I perform my pastoral duties in the parish,” said Fr. Romeo Tocop from the Archdiocese of Zamboanga.

The clergy and the faithful of the Archdiocese of Davao expressed their joy of hosting the 39th DCM Convention which fell fresh from the apostolic visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines last January which inspired the Mindanao Clergy to ponder on Mercy and Compassion especially to the poor.