Pilgrims of Conversion

On March 3, 2025, the Davao, Digos, Tagum, and Mati (DADITAMA) directors and lay coordinators gathered for a spiritually enriching Lenten Recollection and Pilgrimage. The event commenced with a solemn rite in front of the Immaculate Conception Parish in Baganga, setting the tone for a day of deep reflection and renewal. A procession followed, culminating in the veneration of the cross and a blessing and sprinkling of holy water—a powerful reminder of our baptism and the lifelong journey it signifies.

Most Rev. Guillermo V. Afable, D.D., Bishop of Digos, facilitated the recollection. “Whatever your status, in the end, we are all pilgrims on earth,” he reminded the attendies, urging them to embrace their spiritual journey with perseverance and faith.

Bishop Afable shared that the Holy Mass itself embodies the essence of a pilgrimage, with five significant symbolisms that reflect the stages of our spiritual journey: the Processional, Gospel Acclamation, Offertory, Communion, and Recessional.

Reflecting on the significance of baptism, Bishop Afable highlighted its foundational role in the life of every Catholic. “Kamo nga nabunyagan na, magpadayon—continue to grow in faith, whatever your circumstances are,” he encouraged, echoing Pope Francis’ call to revisit our baptism as the heart of our pilgrimage. Pope Francis has continually urged the faithful to view baptism not just as a beginning but as a lifelong commitment: “Baptism is the beginning, yes, but it is meant to be prolonged.”

This call to deepening faith was further reinforced through Pope Francis’ Lenten message, Let Us Journey Together in Hope, which invites believers to conversion and renewal. Bishop Afable echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Spirit brings us, the Father calls us, the Son walks with us in this call to conversion.” It is in Jesus Christ that true hope is found, a hope that does not disappoint.

The pilgrimage also included a period of personal reflection through the Conversation in the Spirit, where participants pondered and shared insights on their journey of faith. Thought-provoking questions were posed to guide their reflections:

• What has helped you in your journey of faith?
• What has hindered you in your journey?
• Do you possess the virtues of being amiable, helpful, hospitable, and understanding?
• What has hindered you from journeying meaningfully and thoughtfully?
• Can you recall an instance where hope did not disappoint?
• Have you ever experienced a moment of hopelessness?

In the concluding Mass, presided over by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, the faithful were reminded of their ultimate destination—heaven. “We are journeying to heaven; we are not of this world. That’s why standing up to receive communion is a strong symbolism. We are not sitting down kay dili ta taga diri,” he proclaimed, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly life and the necessity of standing firm in faith.

Archbishop Valles also vividly illustrated the selfless and immense love of God, explaining how He is the gate of the sheepfold. He described how the shepherd becomes a human gate, standing in the opening to ensure the safety of his sheep.

The recollection was a poignant reminder that faith is a continuous journey—one that requires perseverance, openness, and trust in God’s providence. As the faithful dispersed, they carried with them the words of encouragement: “Stand firm in the way set for you by the Lord.” (Photos: The Roman Catholic of the Diocese of Mati FB Page)