Called To The Table: Daditama Quarterly Meeting Experience

There’s something both nerve-wracking and exhilarating about stepping into a space for the first time: new faces, new environment, and new discussions.

That’s exactly how I felt as a first-time delegate from the Archdiocese of Davao, as one of the representatives of our Archdiocesan Commission on Social Communications, during the 2nd Quarterly Meeting of DaDiTaMa the collaborative family of the Archdiocese of Davao, Dioceses of Digos, Tagum, and Mati last June 3-4, 2025.

The Diocese of Tagum hosted us at the serene Via, Veritas et Vita Retreat House nestled in the quiet folds of Lanipao, Pantukan, Davao de Oro. From the moment we arrived, the fresh mountain air and the view of the surrounding hills already whispered peace. Yet deep within me was a nervous excitement: What would I learn? Who would I meet? How would this experience shape me?

The two-day encounter began with something profoundly timely. It included a presentation on the 2025 National Elections by the church’s involvement through the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), in collaboration with the Social Action Ministry of each diocese. As someone who were amongst the correspondents of the last Midterm Election, I was moved by how seriously our local Church takes its civic responsibility. It wasn’t just about forming voters, but forming consciences reminding us that faith does not end at the church doors, but moves into ballot boxes and making sure that every vote matters.

After the talk, we were guided into a group sharing called “Conversation in the Spirit.” Listening to stories from fellow communicators, each with their own experiences, thoughts and hopes, made me appreciate the commitment of the delegates to promote a peaceful and harmonious life to everyone. The day closed with a Holy Hour, a moment of prayer, worship and silence. Lastly, the day ended with a fellowship dinner.

The second day was more formal the actual quarterly meeting. And here, I saw the Church at work: reports, plans, updates. The meeting ended with the celebration of the Holy Mass, a fitting reminder of who we are and what we are here for. As we shared in the Eucharist, I silently thanked God for this unexpected grace: the chance to listen, to learn, and to witness the Church, the Church moving forward in communion and mission.

DaDiTaMa wasn’t just a gathering of dioceses. It was a gathering of a huge community and family I’m grateful and blessed to be part of. (Allyza Hope J. Tabigue)