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Realities, Insights, Inspirations and Takeaways: Philippine Conference on New Evangelization XI

JUL 20

  Realities, Insights, Inspirations and Takeaways: Philippine Conference on New Evangelization XI

DAY 2.  The second day of the 11th Philippine Conference on New Evangelization (PCNE XI) opened with a Misa ng Bayang Pilipino, presided over by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. The celebration was rich in Filipino liturgical expressions, grounding participants in a shared sense of identity and mission.

Following the Mass, the AUDIAM session synthesis shed light on how God meets us in the chaos of real life. Participants courageously shared experiences of mental health struggles, ministry burnout, family breakdown, and social injustice. A poignant reflection: "Hindi lang pala ako; mas mabigat pala ang pinagdaanan ng iba," underscored the healing that comes from vulnerability and community. Echoing the PCNE theme of embracing hope as a gift, a mission, and a commitment, the assembly resolved to listen more deeply, strengthen the domestic Church, embody authentic joy, and persevere in hope as a response to the woundedness of the world.

            

In the afternoon, concurrent sessions unfolded and attended by Manresans, each offering distinct yet interconnected pathways for renewal. “Plugged In! Empowered Youth Powering the Church”, led by Bro. Stefan Nikolai “Niko” Capucion, called for greater accompaniment of today’s youth, reminding the Church that young people are not just its future, but its present, and that authentic presence matters more than advice. Meanwhile, Fr. Warren Puno, in “Tahanan ng Lahat: Simbahan Para sa Daigdig at Dukha”, issued an urgent call for environmental stewardship rooted in faith and solidarity, emphasizing that climate change first affects the poor and demands united, courageous action. In “With Her Voice: Women Shaping the Synodal Path,” women leaders: Jane Pulido, Rowena Soliano, and Richelle “Mommy Richelle” Balbieran shared how education, livelihood, and creativity are transforming evangelization through female leadership. Together, sessions highlighted the Church’s evolving mission: to be present, prophetic, and inclusive in responding to the signs of the times.

To conclude the day, a Praise and Worship Concert brought together spirit-filled performances from artists across the country. With uplifting music and heartfelt messages, the celebration featured The Feast Worship, Cardinal Tagle, Fr. Migs Ramirez, Rachel Gabreza, Marian Santiago, Eumee Capile, Keilah Bulaong, and others who inspired the crowd with their gifts. The concert served as a powerful reminder of God’s enduring grace, wrapping up a day rich in faith, dialogue, and renewed commitment to the mission.

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DAY 3. The final day of the 11th Philippine Conference on New Evangelization began with youth from a group called "Punta" teaching the steps to the song "Sulong." The opening session, “Padayon: The Filipino Synodal Witnessing of the Catholic Faith,” amplified marginalized voices through indigenous advocates: Mr. Jilmani Nasiron from Bugsok Island, Ms. Angel Sarmiento from Ateneo, and Mr. Socrates Banzuela, who called for solidarity with vulnerable communities.

   

“Sent to Witness: The Asian and Global Perspective of Synodal Witnessing” highlighted global synodality, featuring Ms. Imelda from IFFAsia, Dr. Christina Kheng, and Fr. Rob Galea. Each shared faith-in-action testimonies that resonated deeply with the attendees. Mr. Timothy Aller from CFC Global powerfully stated, “The mission is not over. It continues wherever love is needed, truth must be lived, and God’s presence is revealed through our own.”

The final session, “SULONG-PADAYON!: Synodal Conversion and Witnessing,” was led by Dr. Estela Padilla with Chris Julius Conjurado and representatives from the Archdioceses of Tuguegarao, Cebu, and Cotabato. This session unpacked the Synod Document’s vision, a Church where “no one is invisible” through practices of listening, discernment, and accompaniment. To close the session, Rev. Fr. Enrico Emmanuel Ayo led a prayer.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ThePCNE

To start the second half of the event, a short dance performance entitled “Sulong” was held to energize the crowd. The conference concluded with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Charles John Brown. In his homily, he reminded us that to God, our status in life doesn't matter. You don’t need to be the best because you are enough, and God sees that. He chose you because He knows what’s in store for you. For those who might question why they were chosen, the answer is simple, it is because He chose you. "Our God is a God who chooses," and that is the true meaning of being a follower of Christ.

   

                                                                   Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/ThePCNE

Padayon sa Misyon ni Hesus!

 

We would like to thank the F.I. Sisters and the entire Manresa community for giving us the opportunity to represent our school. We are truly honored by the trust you placed in us!

 

    

 

Article and Photos by: Martina Puzon and Edwin Tantongco