By Myrna S. Bermudo
The Archdiocese of Caceres joined the Universal Church in celebrating the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees through a family retreat. It coincided with the first anniversary of KABAKLAY ministry, the Pastoral Program for Families of Migrants in the Archdiocese of Caceres.
The Kabaklay Family Retreat had the theme: “Free to choose whether to migrate or to Stay.”
“Let us remain steadfast in our mission to accompany and support families of migrants, both those who migrate and those who remain behind. Together, through tour collective efforts, we can continue to be a beacon of light and love for those who seek refuge in the embrace of our Church, “ said Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD., in a circular letter released on August 26.
The gathering had 140 participants from 29 Kabaklay parishes and communities in the Archdiocese of Caceres. It aimed to celebrate and thank the Lord for the grace of a year’s fruitful ministry for the families of migrants in Caceres.
Held on September 24 at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary’s Sts. Louie et Zelie Martin Auditorium, the whole day event started with the welcome remarks of Rev. Fr. Manuel H. Zagada, Director of the Ministry for Families of Migrants in Caceres (MFMC).
Fr. Jboy Gonzales, SJ host of Kape’t Pandasal of Jesuit Communications, Inc. was the invited resource person who gave a reflection on “Sa sarabay na pagbaklay sana kita makaka-abot sa mawot niatong padumanan” (Only by walking together will we be able to go far and reach the common goal of our journey - Pope Francis).
The activity was an opportunity to offer spiritual/pastoral support to the families through a family retreat and to explore further possible programs and strategies to expand and strengthen forms of services. The event also marked the ministry’s launch for parishes other than those of the pilot vicariates. The formed & trained facilitators/volunteers were also able to exercise their skills and to test spiritual dispositions.
Capping the family retreat was a Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr. Joseph Wilfred V. Almoneda, Vicar General of Caceres with Fr. Zagada, Fr. Mayo Cesar Herrera and Fr. William Santiago, Director of Family Ministry in Caceres as concelebrants.