Davao Majors in the Spirit of Synodality

The Davao theologians of the Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao (ReMaSe) together with the pre-deacons of the Archdiocese had their annual recollection at St. Francis Xavier Propaedeutic Seminary, Ulas, Davao City. The said event happened last July 25-26, 2022 where 22 seminarians were present. More than what is usually expected, the Commission on Vocation headed by Fr. Ronald “Dodong” Arcillas initiated a program that would involve their parents. The participants were welcomed on the 1st day, had their election of officers and Mr. Eulalio Patayon was elected as president of the parents of theologians. Fr. Orlando Angelia presided the mass and he emphasized in his homily the value and great role of the parents in the vocation of their children. After the half day recollection, parents returned to their homes while the seminarians remained. They elected a new set of officers and organized a short welcoming program to the neophytes and they enjoyed the fellowship night. On the 2nd day, Fr. Marbendear Morallas gave a short input where he encouraged the seminarians to go out of their comfort zones because Theology must not only be understood theoretically; however, there must be a practical application from what has been taught inside the seminary. Afterwhich, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist followed presided by Fr. Ronald Arcillas. He expressed his gratefulness for the success of the activity. It became a memorable event for the seminarians because they did not gather only for the recollection but they also felt the full support of their parents in the vocation they chose and the efforts of the vocation team. (Sem. Harold Jhon Gimeno)