ARDM gathers on Independence Day

City of Mati, Davao Oriental–“We are empowered by the Lord to serve and to lead his flock” This has been the principal message of Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo D.D., Bishop of Mati, during his talk to the participants of the Association of Religious in the Diocese of Mati (ARDM) on 12th of June 2018 held at Carmel of St. Teresa of Jesus Monastery in Brgy. Matia, Mati, Davao Oriental.

The whole day gathering focused on the theme “The voice of the Shepherd in the Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons.” The morning session was intended for the talk of Bishop Apigo highlighting the theme where he expressed his message of humility to his fellow shepherd. He reiterated to the religious that they, together with the clergy, are only instruments of the True Shepherd in serving the people of God. He also encouraged the different religious congregations to become collaborators in the mission of the Diocese, noting the unity of the One Body of Christ, the Church, though there may be different advocacies and spirituality. He adds that the Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons is an opportunity to renew the faithfulness and servanthood for Christ. After the talk the Eucharistic Celebration followed presided by Rev. Fr. Antonio Nombrefia, OSA, the president of the Association.

The afternoon activity was intended for sharing of religious congregation on the different challenges and situations in their respective apostolates in the Diocese and their concrete response towards such. (Fray James Carlo M. Atienza, OSA)