Caceres holds PDAC and Lay Leaders Congress

Roselyn A. Bermudo

TWO hundred thirty (230) participants from the Pastoral Councils, Religious Organizations and Ministries of the different Parishes in the Archdiocese of Caceres, together with the Chairpersons of the various Ministries and Commissions of the said Archdiocese gathered last March 8, at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia for the PDAC and Lay Leaders Congress.

PDAC refers to the Pastoral Department of the Archdiocese of Caceres and is composed of the Priest-Directors of the Worship, Education, Social Services, Temporalities, Youth, Clergy, and Laity Ministry Clusters. It is headed by the Archbishop with the assistance of the Vicar General. The Congress

is one of the activities for the 2025 Archdiocesan thrust: “Education towards Communion”.

The event began with an inspiring talk by Fr. Fidel Bagayaua on “Empowering Leaders,” followed by a meaningful discussion by Fr. Wilmer Tria on “Catholic Citizenship and Education Engagement.” Fr. Bagayaua presented the qualities of a good leader and asked the participants to be servant-leaders. He also

showed a video on Self-Leadership. Meanwhile, Fr. Tria’s presentation, entitled “Cultivating the Heart,” followed the pastoral cycle framework: See, Judge, Act. He said awareness on social issues, discernment and commitment to work for the common good are essential to become good and responsible citizens.

Fr. Marc Real, Director of CARITAS-Caceres -the Social Action Ministry of the Archdiocese, also gave a presentation regarding the PPCRV (Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting). Fr. Real emphasized the preparation needed for the upcoming May elections. In addition, Fr. Francis Tordilla presented the results of a survey conducted on social issues answered by parish priests. Based on the survey, poverty and hunger; unemployment and lack of livelihood; and environmental concerns were the top three issues. He also presented the recommendations of the parish priests to address these.

The afternoon became a lively and meaningful discussion due to the Spiritual Conversation led by Ms. Julma Narvadez, highlighting the importance of being aware of the promptings of the Holy Spirit through personal reflection and listening without judgment. In each small group, the clergy and lay discussed social issues faced by each parish and explored possible solutions.

The event became even more meaningful and blessed with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D. He thanked the participants for dedicating their weekend to the Congress and said that despite the many challenges, there is hope as can be seen in the commitment of the participants to serve the Church. Caceres Vicar General, Fr. Wilfred

Almoneda led the preparation for the said Congress.