Advent recollection to religious says: Synodality is living and doing

By Myrna Bermudo

The Association of Communities of Consecrated Life in Caceres (ACCLIC) gathered for a day of Advent recollection and Christmas party on the first Sunday of Advent, November 27.

Fr. Arnold Sanico, SDB, facilitated the reflection with the theme “Mary accompanies us (as religious/consecrated) in our Synodal Journey.”

“The Synodal Journey is not merely an activity but it’s all about living and doing, “ said Fr. Sanico. “In the context of religious communities, Synodality becomes personal: we should know how to listen, to be able to do that, we have to know the background of the members of the community.”

There are seven (7) men religious congregations and twenty three (23) women religious communities in the Archdiocese of Caceres. Most of them are working in the education ministry and social services.

Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD presided the eucharistic celebration to culminate the occasion.

In his homily, Archbishop Tirona said gave pointers on how to deepen the spirit of Advent:

“First, through prayer. Because in prayer, we deepen our relationship with God. It also intensifies our readiness to help those in need.”

Tirona also suggested to create an environment where people can focus on the celebration of the mystery of the Lord’s incarnation. For example, encouraging people to put back the Belen in homes, chapels, and in Churches.

“The third sentiment or attitude I would like to propose is to have a deep sense of charity, through acts of charity not only within our community but beyond. To have a deep sense of charity means having a sense of openness, avoiding putting labels on persons, and to say only good things about people,” said Archbishop Tirona.

The gathering was held at the hall of the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peñafrancia.