Lay Participation in the Church’s Mission in and through the Eucharistic Celebration

In the serene and picturesque landscapes of Arakan, North Cotabato, the 63 (sixty-three) members of the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) of San Miguel Parish Panacan found solace and spiritual nourishment during their annual retreat held on May 18-19, 2024. Nestled within the verdant beauty of Buda Vista Garden Resort, this retreat served as a vital moment for reflection, communion, and growth in their faith journey.

Under the guidance of their Retreat Master, Rev. Fr. Marjeo L. Delfin, OMI, the retreat took on a profound theme: “Lay Participation in the Church’s Mission in and through the Eucharistic Celebration.” With this focal point, participants delved into the essence of their role within the Church and explored how their service as EMHC intertwines with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

The retreat commenced with a solemn Opening Mass at the parish church presided by their Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Mervin George Maglana, DCD, where attendees gathered in prayer and unity, invoking the presence of the triune God, as they embarked on their 2-day spiritual retreat. Throughout the sessions that followed, Fr. Delfin skillfully led discussions, meditations, and reflections, inviting the participants to contemplate the significance of their ministry and its profound connection to the Eucharistic celebration.

The retreat provided a platform for the members to deepen their understanding of their vocation as EMHC. Through shared experiences, testimonies, and moments of introspection, they forged stronger bonds with one another and with their faith. As they engaged in prayerful reflection, they discovered new depths of meaning within their service to the Church and gained insights into how they can further contribute to its mission.

The presence of their parish priest on the final day of the retreat added a special significance to the gathering. His inspirational message resonated deeply with the participants, reminding them of the importance of their ministry and encouraging them to continue serving with zeal and dedication.

The retreat concluded with a poignant Mass on the second day, which is also the celebration of Pentecost Sunday, brought their time of spiritual renewal to a close. As they received the Body and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist, receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the participants were also filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a strengthened commitment to their roles within the Church.

The annual retreat of the EMHC of San Miguel Parish Panacan was not merely a gathering; it was a transformative experience that rejuvenated their spirits, strengthened their bonds of fellowship, and deepened their connection to their faith. As they returned to their communities, they carried with them the blessings and graces received during these sacred days of retreat, ready to continue their mission of serving the Church with joy, devotion and a shift of paradigm.

The following are the Executive Committee (Execom) of EMHC San Miguel Parish Panacan for Eucharistic Year 2024-2025:

Chairman: Bro. Warren Rex M. Bautista
Vice-Chairman: Bro. Elizer H. Bojos
Secretary: Bro. Arthur M. Aldeana
Asst. Secretary: Bro. Roleto D. Medes
Treasurer: Bro. Jimboth C. Anonas
Asst. Treasurer: Bro. Rolando M. Mendez
Auditor: Bro. Anthony M. Alcano
Asst. Auditor: Bro. Elizar S. Morden

(Warren Rex M. Bautista | Chairman, EMHC of San Miguel Parish Panacan)