Walking together in one Faith of Synodality and Stewardship

About 848 priests and 18 bishops aptly reflected on the significance of moving forward as frontliners of the faith in the spirit of synodality and stewardship during the 45th Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao Convention hosted by the Diocese of Mati.

The keynote speaker was Most Rev. Raul B. Dael, D.D., Bishop of Tandag. In his opening statement he gave deeper meaning on this year’s Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao Convention 2023 theme:” Moving Forward as Frontliners of the Faith in the Spirit of Synodality and Stewardship”.

As he discussed the significance of this year’s theme, he highlighted the word faith and said, “My dear priests, let us always have strong faith to teach the community and to follow the will of the Lord”. Bishop Dael said. This statement was then supported with the emphasis that bishops are the stewards of God’s grace.

“When we obey our bishops, our obedience reflects our adoration to the will of our God. The Bishop is embodied to take good care of his priests,” Bishop Dael said. The importance of obedience as well as the realization that the bishop is a steward and therefore entrusted with the responsibility to take care of the flock was pointed out.

Among his many lines, what stood out and somehow touched the hearts of many was this, “ang bokasyon nga dili tandugon, dili mamahimong lig-on”. And although there are different struggles in serving the Lord, he pointed out that these will make them even stronger to continuously live their vocation.

Towards the end of his talk, he gave thanks to the priests and bishops for coming to this biennial convention and he extended his gratitude to the host ciocese of this year’s Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao Convention 2023 headed by Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo, D.D. (Rey B. Comania, SOCCOM, Diocese of Mati | Photos: DCH and Brenda Pacana Milan)