Seminarians Complete BEC Exposure in the Archdiocese

Three seminarians from Holy Apostles Senior Seminary (HASS) formally completed their pastoral exposure in the Archdiocese of Davao through a gathering of reflection and sharing before returning to the seminary to continue their priestly formation.

The seminarians — one from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Novaliches and two from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila — were immersed entirely in Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs). Their exposure enabled them to experience firsthand the life of the Church at the grassroots level through community prayer, family visitation, pastoral activities, and accompaniment of the faithful in both rural and urban settings.

Present during the gathering were Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao; Most Rev. George Rimando, D.D.; the Rector of Holy Apostles Senior Seminary, Msgr. Rodulfa, and several members of the BEC Commission.

During the gathering, the seminarians reflected on their experiences and learnings from their immersion in the BECs. They shared stories of accompanying families, participating in prayer gatherings, visiting communities, and witnessing the vibrant faith and active participation of the people within the BECs.

The seminarians also expressed gratitude for the warm welcome, support, and encouragement extended to them by parish priests, BEC leaders, families, and community members throughout their stay in the Archdiocese. Their immersion allowed them to appreciate more deeply the role of BECs as centers of communion, participation, and mission within the life of the Church.

In his message, the Archbishop encouraged the seminarians to continue nurturing their vocation through humility, closeness to the people, and faithful service to the Church. The gathering concluded with prayers and words of encouragement as the seminarians prepare to return to the seminary carrying with them the lessons and inspiration gained from their pastoral exposure in the Archdiocese. (Jesse Hipolito)