Nurturing the Divine Call

In a peaceful and reflective setting at SECDEA Beach Resort, Babak Camudmud, Island Garden City of Samal, the priests of the Archdiocese in Davao engaged in their annual retreat from November 13 to 17, 2023. This spiritual break gathered the participation of 89 priests, graced by the respected presence of the Archbishops in Davao—Abp. Emeritus Fernando Capalla, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, DD and Most Rev. George Rimando, DD. The retreat was further enriched by the guidance of Most Rev. Patricio Buzon, DD the Bishop of Bacolod, who served as the retreat facilitator.

The SECDEA Beach Resort provided a peaceful backdrop for the priests to explore into a period of meditation and spiritual renewal. As the Church calendar approached its conclusion, signifying the transition to a new ecclesiastical year, the retreat held a dual purpose. Not only did it mark the end of the liturgical year, but it also served as a precious opportunity for each priest to reflect on their past experiences and the significant events in their ministry.

Throughout the retreat, a structured schedule guided the priest participants. Each day started with a Holy Hour, setting the tone for meditation and spiritual communion. This was followed by an inspiring talk by Bishop Buzon, whose insights provided a deeper understanding of the priestly vocation. The days unfolded with the recitation of the Holy Rosary and the celebration of the Holy Mass, fostering an atmosphere of holiness and devotion.

The central theme of the retreat, as emphasized by Bishop Buzon, was the profound notion that the identity of priests is rooted in Christ. In his words, “Priesthood is not about us. Our priesthood is not ours. Our priesthood is Christ.” He emphasized the imperative for priests to be vessels of God’s presence in the world, living in constant communion with the divine and embodying the essence of their sacred calling. This key message resonated throughout the retreat, reminding the priests that their vocation transcends the ordinary and is a sacred life shared with the world and its people.

The annual retreat came on its final day with the Holy Mass Presided by Bp. Buzon, as eight deacons were formally accepted into the fraternity. Rev. Amiel Arado, Rev. Junel Bustamante, Rev. Soren Abellanosa, Rev. Cecilio Canico, Rev. Angelo Espinas, Rev. Julius Lugay, Rev. Ranie Boy Pamplona, and Rev. Alcris Panganiban, all belonging to the Fraternity of the Diocesan Clergy of Davao (FDCD), taking a significant step in their spiritual journey by becoming part of the Archdiocesan Clergy of Davao.

This retreat, transcending the ordinary rhythms of pastoral life, stands as a testament to the commitment of the priests in the Archdiocese of Davao to continually nurture their divine calling. It is a time of reflection, renewal, and rededication—a sacred silence in the liturgical calendar that allows these men to strengthen their spiritual foundation and carry the light of Christ into the world. As they return to their respective ministries, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to live out their priesthood as a manifestation of Christ’s presence among us. (Rev. Julius Lugay | Photos by Jeffrey Suplaag)