Celebrating Catechists

The Archdiocese of Davao hosted the 9th DADITAMA Catechetical Convention, a three-day event held at the Holy Cross of Davao College, Inc. from September 20 to 22, 2024. The convention was attended by over 200 delegates, including head and professional catechists, bishops, priests, deacons, and student catechists from the Arch/diocese of Davao, Digos, Tagum, and Mati.

The convention began with a warm welcome for the delegates at the Sedes Sapientiae of HCDC. Bro. Noelvic H. Deloria, SC, the HCDC School President, emphasized the crucial role of Catechists as “Stewards of God’s Word and Peace Champions.” He reminded them of the importance of embodying Jesus’ teachings, particularly through the OUCH to TOUCH process which means Obedience, Understanding, Care and Compassion, Humility and Trust. The day concluded with a Holy Eucharist at Sta. Ana Shrine Parish, presided over by Most Rev. Abel Apigo, D.D., Bishop of Mati. In his message, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the catechists for their spiritual guidance and support, which played an essential role in his journey to the priesthood.

On the second day, Most Rev. George Rimando, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Davao, discussed the concept of the “BEC: An Expression of a Renewing Synodal Church in Mission.” He highlighted the need for catechists to deepen their faith and actively engage in evangelization. The bishop encouraged the delegates to adapt their teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of learners, as outlined in the CBCP’s Pastoral Exhortation on the Era of New Evangelization.

In the afternoon, Mr. Allan G. Farnazo, Regional Director of DEPED XI, shared insights on effective teaching. He emphasized the critical role of catechists in addressing the challenges faced by public school students, who number nearly 1.2 million in the region. Mr. Farnazo provided practical tips for engaging and inspiring learners.

The day continued with a Holy Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Medil Aseo, D.D., Bishop of Tagum, who emphasized that being a true catechist starts with Christ and should be reflected in both word and action. The event concluded with a social gathering, where each diocese showcased performances. Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, extended his heartfelt greetings and expressed his joy to the delegates for their active participation in the convention.

The convention concluded on September 22 with the celebration of the 55th founding anniversary of the John XXIII Catechetical Center. Over 3,000 catechists in the Archdiocese of Davao, including the DADITAMA delegates, attended this special event.

During the morning session, Most Rev. Guillermo Afable, D.D. discussed three key points: the Word of God, pastoral conversion, and being pilgrims of hope. He emphasized the importance of repentance, following Jesus, and making disciples as outlined in the Bible. Bishop Afable highlighted the significance of the Catechetical Ministry, as stated in PCP II, and called for continued service. He also urged catechists to be pilgrims of hope, journeying together and embodying qualities of healing, openness, prayer, and Eucharistic devotion.

In his homily, Bishop Afable raised an important question: “Unsa ang atong rason, nganong gipili nato ang pagka-katekista?” He reiterated that catechists are considered the feet and voice partnered with priests, called to proclaim and evangelize within their communities.

The 9th DADITAMA Catechetical Convention and Archdiocesan Catechetical Gathering was a successful event, strengthening the faith and dedication of catechists throughout the region. The gathering also served as a tribute to the founders and pioneers of the John XXIII Catechetical Center. (Honey Kaye Etdang and Carol Joyce Resando, JCC Scholars)