Priests to Discern Their Prophetic Role in Nationwide Assembly

MANILA, Sept. 18, 2009─Some 300 priests nationwide are expected to gather next month for a three-day assembly to discuss their prophetic role in the Church and Philippine society.

The clergy meeting slated from October 13-15 at the San Carlos Seminary's Lay Formation Center is in response to the bishops' call for the formation of "circles of discernment" among the clergy.

Fr. Joe Dizon, lead convenor of Solidarity Philippines, said the occasion is in accordance with the celebration of the "Year for Priests" and presents an opportunity to discern the important role Catholic priests play in the Church and the country.

The priest said they have directly coordinated with the CBCP's permanent council and the plenary assembly to come up with the national gathering.

"Priests would hopefully come from all dioceses (85 archdioceses, dioceses, prelatures and apostolic vicariates) and religious congregations across the country with each diocese sending at least five priests to attend the gathering," he explained.

Asked about transportation expenses which some politicians may shoulder or sponsor, Dizon said they "discourage" politicians from getting into the picture.

"We have coordinated with Msgr. Manny Gabriel to help us prepare for the occasion," he added.

He explained further that organizing committee will provide the board and lodging in Manila and would only charge P500.00 per participant to cover expenses for handouts and other materials.

Selected archbishops, bishops and priests will deliver talks during the three-day session.

Among the speakers cum facilitators are Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, San Fernando de Pampanga Auxiliary Bishop Pablo Virgilio S. David ,and Imus Bishop Luis Antonio G. Tagle.

"What is outstanding among the speakers are their respective roles in various committees of the CBCP that have something to do with the prophetic role of the priest," he said.

CBCP President and Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo will preside the opening mass on October 13, while Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, will lead the Eucharistic celebration on October 14. Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales will officiate the closing Mass on October 15. (Melo M. Acuna)