DADITAMA Pastoral Workers Wrap Up 2024

The final quarter meeting for the DADITAMA pastoral workers, religious, lay, and clergy for 2024 was held on December 4-5 at Haven’s Dew in Balutakay, Kapatagan. This two-day gathering served as a time for spiritual enrichment and a platform to address pressing pastoral concerns.

Most Rev. Guillermo Afable, D.D., bishop of the host diocese, warmly welcomed everyone, sharing, “There is ample time to understand, there is ample time to encounter each other on an interpersonal level; mao na akong damgo.”

The gathering began with an input on Advent and Christmas by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., which served as a recollection for all participants. Archbishop Muloy reflected on the dual theme of Advent, as emphasized by Pope Francis: a joyful remembrance of Christ’s first coming and a hopeful anticipation of His second coming. “Our hope this Advent is not merely something good; our hope is a person—Jesus, our Lord who comes,” the Archbishop shared. He reminded everyone that the season of Advent nurtures a year-round attitude of waiting and preparation, rooted in faith and hope for Christ’s return.

On the first evening, a meaningful candle-lighting ceremony was held in culmination of the Mindanao Week of Peace. Participants gathered outside the meeting hall for this solemn event. Candles were lit as prayers for peace were offered by representatives, focusing on themes such as justice, respect, love, and hope. The ceremony included an exchange of candles among participants, symbolizing the exchange of peace and forgiveness. The flickering lights amidst the quiet night beautifully represented the collective yearning for harmony and solidarity across Mindanao.

The second day began with the Holy Mass, presided over by Most Rev. Guillermo V. Afable, D.D. In his homily, Bishop Gimmy emphasized the power bestowed upon the faithful through the Holy Spirit, starting with Baptism. He highlighted how bishops are uniquely empowered through Baptism, Confirmation, Priestly Ordination, and Episcopal Ordination. Looking ahead to the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, he reminded everyone of the significance of prayer in proclaiming the meaning of hope, quoting Pope Benedict XVI: “It is in prayer that we can proclaim boldly the meaning of hope.” Bishop Gimmy urged all to deepen their prayer life, particularly by embracing the Liturgy of the Hours, which is now easily accessible online.

During the meeting proper, one of the main topics discussed was pastoral care for LGBTQ individuals. Resource speakers Rev. Fr. Reynaldo Retardo, Rector of REMASE, and Atty. Miles Selgas provided insights on navigating this sensitive issue. Archbishop Muloy reminded participants to remain compassionate yet firm in upholding Church teachings, particularly regarding contentious matters such as same-sex marriage and gender transitioning.

The gathering concluded with a renewed sense of mission and purpose as participants reflected on the Church’s role amidst changing times. The prayers and reflections throughout the meeting inspired the clergy, religious, and lay faithful to strengthen their prayer life and compassionately address pastoral challenges. With the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope on the horizon, this final meeting of the year marked a meaningful step forward in the synodal journey of DADITAMA.