Synodality in action: HCDC conducts reverse pitching

In a meaningful effort to walk the synodal path of communion, participation, and mission, Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) an archdiocesan school, in collaboration with the Center for Integral Evangelization (CIE), hosted the Reverse Pitching Workshop on June 30, 2025 at the Sedes Sapientiae Auditorium. This gathering marked a significant step in listening to the voices of the parishes, truly embodying synodality in action.

The workshop brought together parish representatives, from the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), Gagmay’ng Kristohanong Katilingban servant leaders (GSL’s), and community partners to share not only their stories, but also the current needs, programs, and pastoral realities of their communities. Unlike the traditional model where institutions present their services first, the reverse pitching format allowed the parishes to “pitch”* their respective context—highlighting their concerns, needs, programs, and existing pastoral efforts, such as those for youth, lay leaders, and social ministries and even communities.

Br. Noelvic H. Deloria, SC, President of HCDC highlighted three things in his explanation of the rationale: 1.To know the relations, concerns and needs of the parish and its GKKs. 2.To be familiar of the programs, services and projects in the parish for the parishioners and communities like the GSL’s, youth etc. 3. If there will be an opportunity for HCDC to assist or collaborate in the different areas of the parish and the community.

The event was facilitated by Dr. Arvin Gutang, Head of the Research and Publication Office of HCDC, who emphasized the importance of evidence-based engagement and community listening as key principles of institutional missioning. The insights gathered during the workshop aim to shape possible areas of collaboration where HCDC—through its academic, research, outreach, and formation arms which can someday be of concrete help to the parishes and their programs.

The Reverse Pitching Workshop signals a strong example of how the Church and Catholic institutions can journey together, not by imposing, but by accompanying. Through listening, dialogue, and discernment, synodality becomes more than a concept—it becomes a lived reality.

As Pope Francis reminds us, “A synodal Church is a Church that listens.” With events like this, the Church in Davao along with its academic institution is clearly listening and walking hand in hand with her people in the Archdiocese. (Allyza Hope J. Tabigue)