4th ABP. Clovis Thibault Theological Forum Highlights Liturgical and Canonical Ministry in Mindanao

The St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao (ReMaSe) held the 4th Archbishop Clovis Thibault Theological Forum on 19 September 2026 at the SFX-ReMaSe Dennis Uy Gymnasium, clergy, religious brothers and sisters, and seminarians from various religious groups and institutions, for a morning of theological reflection and academic dialogue.

Carrying the theme, “50 Years of Liturgical and Canonical Ministry and Life in the Local Church in Mindanao,” the forum focused on the continuing significance of liturgical and canonical ministry in the life and mission of the Church in the region.

Most Rev. Guillermo Afable, D.D. delivered the main presentation, sharing his reflections on the five decades of liturgical and canonical ministry and the life of the Local Church in Mindanao. His presentation provided the participants with an opportunity to consider the relationship between the Church’s liturgical celebration, canonical life, and pastoral mission.

The presentation was followed by responses from four reactors: Sem. Alfonso O. Ocol, Rev. Fr. Marc Leo Celada, MPR, SThL, Sem. Rohuan S. Alberto, and Rev. Fr. Mark Anthony H. Edio. Their responses offered different perspectives on the themes presented and further enriched the academic exchange.

An open forum followed, allowing the participants to engage the speaker directly through questions and discussion.

More than an academic activity, the forum served as an occasion for the seminary community to listen, reflect, and engage in dialogue on the Church’s continuing mission in Mindanao. It also highlighted the importance of theological formation in preparing future ministers to serve the Church with a deeper understanding of her liturgical and canonical life. (REMASE)