“Strengthened by the Bread of Life”: EMHCs of San Miguel Parish Hold Enriching Retreat in IGACOS

On May 24-25, 2025, the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) of San Miguel Parish, Panacan, Davao City, gathered for a deeply spiritual and transformative retreat at Valera Farm, Maslog, Brgy. Sto. Niño, IGACOS. With the theme “Strengthened by the Bread of Life: Serving with Humble Hearts,” the retreat served as a sacred pause from the everyday to renew the hearts and commitment of these lay ministers.

Led by retreat facilitator Sr. Carmencita Pintac, the two-day formation centered on the sub-theme “Broken, Blessed, and Shared,” drawing inspiration from the Eucharistic life of Jesus Christ. The objective was clear and compelling: to deepen the EMHCs’ spiritual life and strengthen their identity as vessels of Christ’s love through the ministry of the Holy Eucharist.

Day One: Broken – Embracing Our Humanity and Call

The retreat began with an early morning assembly at Davsam Port and a serene crossing to Samal Island. Upon arrival, participants were welcomed with a registration and an Opening Liturgy that set a reverent tone for the journey ahead.

The first session, “Broken Yet Called,” invited the ministers to reflect on their personal struggles and imperfections—not as hindrances, but as sacred spaces where God’s call is heard most profoundly. “Our brokenness is not a disqualification but a call,” Sr. Carmencita reminded the group. A time for personal reflection and journaling followed, allowing participants to internalize this message.

In the afternoon, the session “Healing Our Wounds in Christ” delved deeper into the redemptive power of Christ’s love. Small group sharings afterward fostered a sense of vulnerability and community. The highlight of the day was the Eucharistic Celebration presided by Rev. Fr. Mervin George Maglana, DCD, who emphasized the grace of being both nourished by and serving the Bread of Life.

The evening was marked by two significant moments: the election of the new EMHC Executive Committee officers and a reflective activity titled “Walking with Christ,” which provided a creative space for participants to journey inwardly with the Lord. The first day concluded with a sense of gratitude and peace. The newly elected Execom Officers for Eucharistic Year 2025-2026 were as follows:

Chairman: Bro. Arthur Aldeano
Vice-Chairman: Bro. Joel Reyes
Secretary: Bro. Jose Rizalito Yangyang
Asst. Secretary: Bro. Ramil Colita
Treasurer: Bro. Jimboth Anonas
Asst. Treasurer: Bro. Noel Mahilum
Auditor: Bro. Rolando Mendez
Asst. Auditor: Bro. Richard Torejas

Day Two: Blessed and Shared – Living the Eucharist Daily

The second day began with a contemplative Rosary Walk, merging nature and prayer in a beautiful outdoor setting. The morning continued with the session “Blessed to Be a Blessing,” where EMHCs were reminded that their mission does not end at the altar. They are called to be Christ’s hands and heart in the world—especially to the sick, elderly, and those most in need.

A workshop on Best Practices and Challenges in the Ministry encouraged practical dialogue and wisdom-sharing, culminating in the final session, “Shared in Love,” which was filled with group affirmations and encouragement. The retreat closed with a heartfelt liturgical celebration and an Agape Meal, symbolizing their renewed unity and commitment.

By 2:00 PM, the ministers returned home—spiritually refreshed, newly bonded, and reinvigorated for the work ahead.

A Graced Experience

The retreat was more than just a gathering; it was a sacred encounter with the Lord and with one another. As one participant shared, “We came to this island with tired hearts but left with vessels filled with grace. We are broken, yes—but also blessed and called to be shared.”

Through prayer, reflection, fellowship, and the Eucharist, the EMHCs of San Miguel Parish have been strengthened once more to serve humbly and wholeheartedly—bearing the Bread of Life to others, both in and beyond the celebration of the Mass. (Warren Rex M. Bautista | EMHC San Miguel Parish Panacan)