DILAAB: ACLAIM Holds First Archdiocesan Gathering of the Laity

The Archdiocesan Council of Lay Apostolates and Integrated Movements (ACLAIM) gathered lay faithful from different communities, apostolates, and movements for the First Archdiocesan Gathering of the Laity on September 27, 2026, at the Holy Cross of Davao College Gymnasium, centered on the theme “DILAAB” (Luke 24:32).

Inspired by the words, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the Scriptures to us?”, the theme DILAAB, meaning a burning flame, reflected the call for the laity to allow their encounter with Christ to renew their faith and inspire them to participate more actively in the mission of the Church. The Emmaus experience served as a reminder that an encounter with Christ does not end with personal transformation but leads the faithful toward renewed service and mission.

The gathering featured two sessions that addressed important aspects of the vocation and responsibilities of the lay faithful. Rev. Msgr. Paul Cuison, Vicar General, who served as the first speaker, led the first session on “The Identity and Mission of the Laity in a Synodal Church,” highlighting the role of lay faithful in journeying together, participating in the life of the Church, and sharing in its mission.

For the second session, the Lopez family served as speakers and tackled the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Their discussion brought the gathering into the contemporary realities faced by the faithful, emphasizing the importance of responsible and ethical engagement with technology.

The gathering also included prayer, praise and worship, testimonies, joyful songs, and presentations from different communities, creating opportunities for fellowship and strengthening communion among the lay faithful. These activities complemented the formation sessions by allowing participants to celebrate their shared faith and experiences as members of the Church.

The day culminated in the celebration of the Holy Mass presided over by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, with Rev. Fr. Marbendear Morallas, Episcopal Vicar for the Laity, concelebrating. The Eucharistic celebration served as the gathering’s moment of thanksgiving and renewed commitment as the participants reflected on their calling to live out their faith through service and participation in the Church. After the Holy Mass, a tribute to the archbishop was also presented by the ACLAIM.

Held within the celebration of the National Laity Week 2026, the ACLAIM gathering underscored the call for lay faithful to keep the fire of faith alive. Through DILAAB, the participants were reminded that hearts set aflame by Christ are called to become witnesses of the Gospel, journeying together in communion and responding to the mission entrusted to the laity. (Bernadette Esperance)