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Dynamics of Ecclesial Discernment

1. meetings with PPC, and other groups in the parish tackling problems, issues, and other concerns that need to be addressed.

2. further discussions so as to come up to different programs and activities

3. accountability and transparency in making pastoral and financial reports.

- "Keep the order and the order will keep you."

4. consultation so as to arrive at a communal decision while recognizing the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit along the process

5. considering not only the spiritual but also the human aspect of the repercussion of a certain decision

6. structured dialogue leading towards the discernment of the will of God

- The challenge that it may bring: the result may not be the will of God of the different agenda being pushed the people involved in the dialogue

7. consultative approach in making different programs

Which ones have been difficult

1. coming to a decision that did not undergo consultation/discernment; oftentimes, only coming from the leaders as if making a "press release"

Lessons:

1. Using a new methodology, i.e., conversation in the spirit, with empirical data as basis in order to arrive at ecclesial discernment

- can be used in reshuffling or in recommending priests to their new assignments

Hope:

1. zeal in governance

2. Hierarchical power should not breed clericalism but an avenue for a more consultative style of leadership, but still keeping in mind that it can't be turned into democratic leadership

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1. There must always be discussions between the pastors and the lay faithful in order to have a dynamic and progressive plan and mission for the whole parish.

2. The parish should be ministry-based and grounded in planning. Proposing agenda that involves breaking tensions and exclusivity within lay faithfuls and different ministries. One ministry must be involved and participate in the movement and plans of the other ministries for the sake of good accountability and transparency. It speaks about not owning the ministry but rather the centralization of the ministries through different agenda.

3. The reading of Word of God has to be integrated in every meeting to be conducted in every parishes in order to have a good discernment. The Word of God will serve as compass for every planning and whatever endeavors the parish will be doing for the Church's progress.

4. The importance of restructuring the parish commissions without abolishing the old body of the commission but by making them involve still and giving opportunities to the new ones who will be later on equipped with different kinds of formations.

5. Though progress through ecclesial discernment is slow, as long as there are things happening in a positive things that will eventually help the whole parish/church, the Church will never be seen dying.

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A) WE'RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

We can only be credible, reliable and effective if our Bishops and we their clergy would walk the talk within, for and as a Church regarding the essence of communion and dialogue between us. We believe that Priests can only become effective listeners and discerners if they are assured of their experience of being listened to with their Bishops.

B) BIGYAN NG JACKET YAN

Ecclesial discernment starts with pastors and priests who know how to acknowledge their own issues, weaknesses and inadequacies. But the journey continues and is complemented with the active collaboration of the lay who should be considered as an essential part of a truly synodal community.

C) WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

We pray that the fruits of this PPFS would equip us to be able to formulate, articulate and concretize steps that would aid our dioceses and our parishes in realizing a truly synodal community.

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✓ Conversation in the Spirit

- We start with the prayer, then tackle pastoral priorities. Some topics are brought from the parish levels to the meeting of the priests. In the monthly recollections, we also include topics relevant to us. We also have a parish pastoral assembly where we plan together.

- We had a Diocesan road map for three years, and every year we have an assembly, and a convocation in the middle of August. Normally, we identify our Diocesan concerns and every month we have priestly meetings where we discuss the programs. In the parish administration, we have terms in the service. Also, according to the roadmap, we reduced and re-aligned the Diocesan commissions into the triplex munus of Jesus. There is also a moment when the pastoral director asks the people to share their concerns in relation to their christian life.

- The principles that we use are participation, dialogue, and co-responsibility. They use the term YEAST instead of WESTY.

- They have started to organize the commissions and make common planning. In the presbyteral meetings sometimes it takes two days to dedicate. They also dedicate time to have different meetings in order to have a good outcome. Even some informal meetings like get together or outings become part of consultation and discernment.

- We started the Synodal process from the grassroots and it appeared that the clergy became the primary cause of "un-synodality". After that, they underwent discernment and made actions accordingly. In terms of financial matters, they opted to have a council to take care of all the finances and the Oeconomus is now a lay and not a priest. Part of the Synodality of parishes, small parishes receive subsidies. All priests who are in the curia work are not assigned as Parish priests only attached to one.

- In the Archdiocese of Zamboaga, they made a re-alignment into the structure: Bishop, curia, Pastoral director, vicariates, parishes, BECs. In the medical concerns, parishes are asked to help in the expenses. In terms of financial support, we need to strengthen the BECs.

- In our Diocese, we have used ecclesial discernment in some issues like relationship problems between priests in a parish, closing of a Catholic school due to financial devastation and Standardization of finances. In these issues, the bishop included the lay in handing the situations and including them in the discernment process especially on the decisions.

Communally,

- The presence of a Bishop, a priest and a lay who is willing to do more and be more is a clear sign of hope because we are on our way to radically changing our structures and systems towards a more Synodal Parish and Diocese as a whole.

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Experiencing the dynamics of Ecclesial Discernment and function of participatory bodies

1. Through the Parish Pastoral Council, Lay leaders there are opportunities for consultation. Sometimes though limited. Through the BECs we achieve collective minds and instrumental in calibrating the structures with the diocesan programs

2. Clarity in vision, parish concerns  needed in the process of Communal Discernment; giving proper instructions to people. In the PPC meetings, exchanges in dialogue  there may be animosity, they can be opportunities to respond in openness, breaking the walls “Breaking the Ice” mas madali silang mag share.

3. In Mission Stations by listening to the people, dialogue and opening of the faithful with their concerns, needs and issues, to prevent  the decision makings without consultation; hierarchical way vs. practice of communal discernment

4. Ways of communal discernment: GROUP CHAT MESSENGER, reflecting together, there may be misunderstanding at times, the parish priests become arbiter.

5. Recognition of giving place in the diocesan level for the Lay Faithful, co-stewards: sharing of ideas and owning of ideas: the Lay Faithful as  collaborators. They help us to be accountable and transparent: though imperfect, the parish priests can make use of their charisms.

Resonance:

1. Hindi padalos dalos sa pagbaba ng mga desisyon without the proper consultation; ecclesial discernment can be practiced through proper formation, education and catechesis for the faithful, to own, participate in the decision making for the good/beficial to all

2. “Let us not be deluded by democracy” enlightenment of the holy spirit.  “Prayer as Non-Negotiable” in eccesial discernement; to bring all your concern in prayers.

3. Part of ecclesial discernment is the care for the Shepherds, Ministering the Ministers: “paano kikilos kung wala kang energy?”

4. Ministering to out Lay leaders.  We need the people in drawing out ideas, be co responsible  to kne another

5. Be transparent with the bishop/authority

6. Silence as the place where you can discern properly; gracefully in silence; being sensitive to other leaders.

Synthesis

Hoping for more process of levelling, a greater openness among the bishop and the clergy, the parish priests with the Lay Faithful. Prayer as our main instruments for ecclesial discernment. Self transformation of the parish priests, imitating all the more the good shepherd.

In decision making, listening and ownership of decisions made

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The Golden 17 Connection

Experience of the Dynamics of Ecclesial discernment:

1. When the bishop anointed me, he consulted me. turn over, support of my family, friends and students. formation of PPC consultation. HAppy: trust of the bishop (what bishop saw in me which I do not see, passion of leaders, transparency, support system such as friends. difuculty: passion of interest of leaders- integration. difficulty: former parish priest who thinks that he is still the parish priest. lesson: discernment o the voice of God amidst conflicting ideas. local context: collaboration out of conflicting ideas- building a puzzle into a picture-dynamism of enthusiasm is important.  I don't have the answer yet but it will come.

2. experience: the bishop is always consulting the clergy and the collaborators. happy: when the parish shows generosity.  sad: reliance on the priest, slow moving, cannot decide- empowerment is needed. revival of Bible sharing. learning: delegation, collaboration. need: empowerment of finance council. strategic planning should not only be for the priest but also for religious and laity.

3. discernment: God's voice in the Church. listen to the voice of God and of the laity. kaninong boses ba ang dapat manaig? listen to the voice of God in all. Happy: doing vision and mission. Hindi pa sila sanay sa boses nang diyos. Happy: joining the gkk for their fiesta. pag malakas ang bec malakas ang parokya.

4. having a group discernment enables us to discover the different charisms.discernment process gives order. Happy:when everybody is able to be heard. Hindi lng Yung gusto mo kundi yung gusto rin nila at kilangan nila. openness to one another. difficult: bias in your previous parish which you want to apply to your parish. every parish has a capacity. lesson work as if everything depends on you trust as if everything depends on God. empowerment, listening attitude. apostolate of listening and presence.  signs of hope: be open to the opportunities endowed by the hoy spirit.allow the spirit to work in us.

5. in our diocese there is a consultation. every recollection there is a representative, a priest shares his pastoral experience. each vicariate gives a report as to the result of their vicariate meeting.  parish level: regular monthly meeting of pastoral and finance meeting, agenda is a must. letting the parishioners to decide and present to the priest. everyone would be happy if their is cooperation within.

6. building up a good rapport with the new parish assignment is a must. happy: lay who are enthusiastic saying " kaya natin yan father". contribution of everybody. hope: sama sama, tulong tulong sa misyon.

7.  . listen to your fellow priest. erring priests.  docility, happy: if may support system

sad:  pag wala support system. pag may matigas ang ulo at puso.

Resonance:

1. Voice of everybody, acknowledging the charism of everybody

2. gusto nating pakinggan sana gustuhin din nating makinig. have the heart to listen.

3. listening and being silent.

4. Diverse in age, assignment and apostolate yet united in mission, let us do what is expected and entrusted to us.

5. we are stewards. tayong lahat ay may pananagutan sa fellow priests, parishioners at sa Diyos.

6. we are humans doing God's work, much is expected to us, we need to ask the one who asks us to do this work. there can be struggles but there are more joys in the ministry.

7. Docility- willingness to learn

Synthesis:

In the path of synodality and discernment for us priests, every voice of each individual is important and the inherent excellence of each one in the community should be recognized. The Tagalog quote, "Gusto nating pakinggan, sana gustuhin din nating makinig," reminds us of the significance of active listening and cherishing the unique voices around us. By fostering an environment where listening and silence are valued, we can better discern the stirrings of the Holy Spirit guiding us towards unity in our service. Despite differences in age, roles, and ministries, unity can be achieved by fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to us as stewards accountable to one another, the parishioners we care for, and to God.

As priests, accepting discernment as a way of life is crucial for the journey towards meaningful priesthood. Through being open to the invitations of the Holy Spirit and desiring to understand the ways of Christ, we can actively experience the journey of faith and service. With the quality of docility and a willingness to learn, we empower ourselves to face the challenges and joys that come with our calling. By understanding His will and aligning our steps with His guidance, we can together establish a path leading us towards a collective dream, guided by the Spirit, as we fulfill our sacred mission.

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A) "WE'RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER"

Ecclesial discernment begins at "home"

B) "BIGYAN NG JACKET YAN!"

Ecclesial discernment calls us not to fear - to know and be known

C) WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

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Teaching Ties Building Communities

Sharer 1 In engaging with the community and developing programs, it is important to have regular meetings, such as PPC meetings, to discuss the pastoral program. We use social communication platforms (like Messenger) to share the agenda beforehand so everyone can reflect on it, leading to more productive meetings.

Sharer 2: The composition of the meetings should include representatives from each sector of the BEC, local government units, and parish organizations to listen to their thoughts and ideas, fostering unified decisions for the betterment of the church community. It is also beneficial to have regular Masses.

Sharer 3: Regular meetings among the clergy for simple check-ins and spending time with the Lord through Holy Hour are essential. Developing an apostolate of presence and engaging in interreligious dialogue is key. Combining BEC and interreligious dialogue leads to mission.

Sharer 4: Before meetings, the agenda should be prepared and discussed, with consultations held beforehand. The presence of a priest in these meetings is very important.

Sharer 5: Insecurity can be a struggle for priests due to their own agendas, but priests are called to collaborate with others, including government officials, especially during events like elections and natural calamities. The Church should be inclusive, not exclusive.

Sharer 6: Echoing the thoughts of Bishop Ambo, serving the Church also means serving society. The Church should not only cater to active members but also to the broader community, including the government. This approach helps in developing Faith, Friendship, and Fundraising. Building connections through faith conversations is crucial.

Sharer 7: Keep in touch.

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Summary of Thoughts on Teaching Ties Building Communities

We emphasize the importance of regular and structured community engagement through meetings such as PPC sessions, using social communication platforms to share agendas in advance for more productive discussions. We highlight the need for inclusive meetings with representatives from various sectors, including local government units and parish organizations, to ensure unified decision-making. Regular Masses and clergy Kamustahan, including Holy Hour, are deemed essential for fostering spiritual growth and presence.

The importance of interreligious dialogue and collaboration with government officials, especially during significant events like elections and natural calamities, is stressed. The Church should be inclusive and cater to the broader community, not just active members. Building connections through faith conversations aids in developing faith, friendships, and fundraising. Lastly, maintaining continuous communication and touchpoints within the community is crucial for deeper connections and effective ministry.

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Resonates:

Sharer 1: Keeping in touch helps to deepen connections.

Sharer 2: Ministry of presence.

Sharer 3: Accompaniment is essential in the lives of people, especially the marginalized.

Sharer 4: Presence and listening are important. No need to comment; just being with and listening to people’s cries is enough.

Sharer 5: A prayerful disposition and the apostolate of listening.

Sharer 6: Priests should listen to people with the true heart of a good shepherd.

Sharer 7: #WEB - Winning hearts (understanding their spiritual needs), Encountering others (different sects, religious groups, sectors of government, etc.), Being with them (presence and listening).

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What is the Holy Spirit leading us to do?

In our communal discernment, the Holy Spirit leads us to be a ‘web church,’ winning hearts, encountering others, and being with them whenever possible. Indeed, this will truly be a way of being church by breaking down walls and establishing sectoral ministries such as interreligious dialogue, environmental stewardship, care for the elderly, and many others.

Fr. Rogelio yoyong" Albite, Diocese of Digos, Davao Del sur

Msgr. Erwin Magnanao, Diocese Of San Carlos, Negros

Fr. Van Cabug-os Diocese Masin, Leyte

Fr. Rolly Rabaca Diocese of Virac

Msgr. Mon Torres, Prelature of Marawi

Fr. Millemar Perin Diocese Of Boac

Fr.John Añago, Diocese Of Lucena

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GROUP #22

*[Conversation in the spirit 3]

-TAKING THE WORD AND LISTENING

*The value of meeting with the Parish pastoral council in order to listen to the people,

- having the PPC meeting held in the B.E.C Chapels especially to the members who are already inactive in the parish

*The existence of an executive board of B.E.C leaders meeting

* Chapel pastoral meeting which brings the concern to the P.P.C

* It gives hope to the diocese , since we can't look at the fullness of our life as a Church, when can't look at the basic communities .

*There is an archdiocesan general assembly,

That is being formed from the grassroots which is composed of the representatives from all parish sectors

Worship, education, social action , temporalities, , family life , youth and Vocation, (formulated a book a pastoral primer for the pastoral concerns of the diocese)

* In the seminary , as a response to the Pope's call for a wholistic formation, there are people/ laity that are given questionnaires as to what do they envision for a priest in the diocese

* Regular and monthly meeting with the clergy, council of consultors .

* Gathering of priests to develop relationship as co journeyers in the Church

* Pastoral planning from the grassroots to the top, or from the top to the grassroots

* Adding the commissions of the pastoral assembly,

* Listening to the people as to how they are impacted by the homilies

* Creating a mission and vision in the diocese , in order to answer the pastoral priorities

* Creating a cluster of communities for the b.e.c leaders, And the cluster of leaders for religious organizations

* Being grateful for the Bishop who Listens to us

Setbacks; there are conflicts with the parish priest and the lay leaders these are hindrances for the communal discernment,

- kanya kanya mentality

- clericalism

-messianic complex

- when the priest is absentee

- forming many commissions without manpower

- discernment In choosing leaders should not just be coming from the parish priest , or by popularity , by politics but from the joint discernment coming from the priest and the parishioners

MAKING SPACE FOR OTHERS AND THE OTHERS

*as part of communal discernment, we must remain non partisan, we must try our best to be neutral

* "Hindi ko Kay Ang mag isa". It is a humbling experience to recognize the need for the laity, acknowledge and accept their giftedness and charisms

BUILDING TOGETHER : TO WHAT STEPS IS THE HOLY SPIRIT CALLING US TOGETHER?

*It is leading us try new trends in addressing pastoral issues

* Creating the Synodal process by including the laity, religious congregations, and all states of life, in planning and decision for the good of the diocese and the parishes

* Constant recognition of the the limitation of the Priest as a leader (healthy self-doubt)

* Welcoming new ideas , while valuing the best practices that promotes Synodality

* Regular listening and recognizing the voice of the spirit speaking through the different voices in the church

* Recognizing that the Holy spirit is our guide to achieve synodality, we can only achieve the fullness of life in the church when we align all our work to the leading of the spirit

*Strengthen what is already there and eliminate practices that blocks the process of communal discernment

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Conversation in the Spirit 3: Teaching Ties, Building Communities

Group 19

Fr. Serge – Diocese of San Jose de Antique

Fr. Albert – Diocese of Romblon

Fr. Johnny – Archdiocese of Davao

Fr. Ayong – Diocese of Lingayen, Dagupan

Fr. Redimto – Diocese of Alaminos

Fr. Jesse – Diocese of Ilagan

Fr. Biboy – Diocese of Marbel

Fr. Lex – Diocese of Borongan

In my ministry as a parish priest, how have I experienced the dynamics of ecclesial discernment? Which ones have been happy and which ones difficult? What lessons do I draw from them? In my local context, how do participatory bodies function at the parish level? And at diocesan or eparchy level? What signs of hope do I recognize there?

Round 3: Call to Action

Where is the Spirit leading us?

1st Point: Call for a more enhanced On-Going Formation programs of priests incorporating the spirit of synodality. Kasi dapat klaro sa pari na kailangan nyang maging synodal, para sumunod ang kumunidad.

-Crucial to this is the seminary formation in our dioceses. Dun pa lang sa seminary na-appropriate na ito to become a habit and part of his values. Train seminarians to love and value prayer.

-Involve parents and other lay people in the formation of seminarians, their future priests.

-Transparency, humility, and  openness in giving and receiving feedbacks should be inculcated in the seminary. So that when they become priests they wont get offended or insecure when they receive negative feedbacks.

2nd Point: Prioritize Prayer. Because ecclesial discernment is done in the spirit of prayer which strengthens our personal relationship with God. Let us draw our strength from God. Spend more time in prayer and communing with God. Talk to God because this is His mission, not ours. We are just mere instruments of His love, mercy and compassion. Hindi lang ito SA AKIN kundi SA ATIN.

3rd Point: Know more about people—in the words of the Pope—Pope Francis, “know the smell of your sheep." Know their needs, their worries and concerns, so that we will know what concrete actions we need to do.

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Where does the Spirit lead us?
in teaching ties and buidling communities, we as priest ordained for our respective Dioceses are hoping that bishops as the spiritual leader should take the initiative in three particular aspects

we believe that through these points, we could inspire and enhance our dynamics of ecclesial discernment especially for our respective communities.

1. Collaboration - we priests are more than willing to collaborate with our Bishop especially in his directives and plans as long as he is also showing a collaborative spirit. this is with the hope that in every step of communal building, we are working under a common ground and at the same time the bishop expresses his willingness to work with everyone.

2. Communication - we priests are hoping that the bishops could clearly express himself in what he says and most importantly in things that he doesn't say. Ex. priests tend to check the mood of their bishop first before they would try to approach him.

3. Charity - we priests are hoping that the bishops could somehow strike the balance among the different communities and could find an adequate pacing for the diocese as a whole. this goes to all aspects such as hurried deadlines for synodal reports, communities, sectors and individuals who were left out in the consultation, as well as priests who easily get burned out with all the overwhelming demands in the ministry.

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Sharer 1- They started the School Year with an activity (Conversation in the Spirit) that will develop and foster teamwork among their staff in order to have effective programs and activities for

the students.

Sharer 2 - he acknowledged the importance of communal discernment and involvement of the laity in their Parochial Planning. When he arrived in his new assignment he was challenged by a practice wherein his parishioner directly informed him regarding an activity without proper consultation with other ministers in the Parish.

Sharer 3 - appreciated the beauty of working with the lay faithful, consulting and listening with their opinion for the betterment of Parochial programs and activities. He practiced Parochial Visit modeling it with the pastoral visit of their bishop which allows him to know and address the needs of his parish.

Sharer 4 - as a new parish priest he observed that the pastoral plan of the parish where he is currently assigned is not holistic. To address the order and stability of the formation of his lay leaders, he told them to put into record all their activities. He also encouraged his parishioners to invite other people to cooperate and collaborate in the programs and activities in the Parish.

Sharer 5 -as School Director he saw the importance of meeting and believing in the process (listening and taking time). But being assigned in a place where everything seems in a hurry (fast phasing) he acknowledged it as a challenge in the concept of processing. One must assure that in planning everyone must have the sense of owning the final result.

Sharer 6 - he acknowledged ecclesial discernment as necessary to the success of their pastoral planning. He also acknowledged consultation as a fundamental element in order to arrive at a more effective decision and result. He takes casual talks with his parishioners as a sort of consultation in having his final decision in the parish.

Where does the Holy Spirit lead us?

° to acknowledge the participation of the laity as vital in the parish.

° to admit that we need the opinions of our parishioners and not to work alone for much better and effective results of our programs and activities.

° to plan and to own the final result of the planning.

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Synthesis Report: Sweet 16 Table Discussion

First Round

1. Consultative Leadership:

- Style is consultative, practicing ecclesial discernment.

- Lay leaders prefer guidance from the priest's plans.

- Consultative approach involves encompassing feedback but can be challenging if the priest handles everything alone.

- Emphasis on avoiding a one-man rule.

2. Consultation Practices:

- Assignments are distributed among parishioners, facilitated by a useful group chat (GC).

- New officers are elected through consultation, fostering positive relationships.

3. Depth of Consultation:

- Consultation exists but lacks depth.

- Consistency in meetings is crucial, allowing lay members to conduct their own.

4. Involvement of the Bishop:

- Important for diocesan strategic planning and monthly meetings.

- Empowerment and education of laity in decision-making are vital.

- Social media can be a challenge when decisions are publicized.

- The bishop and priests should be open and listen to the process.

5. Non-imposed Decisions:

- Emphasis on meetings and consultations without imposing decisions.

6. Inclusive Planning:

- Inclusive planning is beneficial, making everyone feel they belong.

- Clear functions for each office and effective communication via GC are essential.

7. Cluster Coordination:

- Need for coordination without overlapping responsibilities.

- Consultation with personnel is necessary to understand their needs.

- College of consultors includes only priests, raising questions about broader participation in discernment.

8. Expanding the Tent:

- Teaching discernment to people, considering emotional issues.

Second Round

1. Justice for Personnel:

- Ensuring fair treatment and inclusion in the community.

2. Community Activities:

- Organizing outings, recollections, and mass.

- Celebrating Martha's Day enhances seminarians' appreciation of personnel's work.

3. Empowering Personnel:

- Routing personnel matters through HR for better management.

- Legal aspects must be considered in personnel decisions.

4. Valuing Personnel:

- Recognizing personnel's work through home visitation and leadership formation.

- Sustainable leadership beyond the current leaders.

5. Employee Benefits:

- Addressing wage complaints and providing incentives.

- Recognizing long-term service and giving awards for excellence.

6. Corporate Standards:

- Treating personnel with standards akin to hotel services.

- Ensuring minimum wage compliance.

7. Financial Constraints:

- Parish might struggle to afford personnel; diocese may need to step in.

- Legal cases require proper counsel, and due process is essential.

- Issues with hiring and firing should align with labor laws.

8. Centralization and Legal Concerns:

- Centralized processes with bishop's signature.

- Training in legal matters, including TASS centralization and understanding legal documents like wills.

Third Round

1. Inclusive Discernment:

- Involving household members and personnel in the discernment process.

Summary

The discussion revolves around the importance of a consultative and inclusive approach in parish management. Emphasis is placed on involving lay leaders, ensuring fair treatment and empowerment of personnel, and maintaining clear communication and coordination. Legal considerations, sustainable leadership, and the role of the bishop are highlighted as crucial elements in achieving a harmonious and effective parish community.

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Conversation

1. the bishop has priorities Evangelization and formation of the laity:

FLA, Catechesis, Youth, BEC,

Social Action Program is handled by the bishop with chosen priorities only: Ecology, Housing, Scholarship. the focus is because of the less importance given to this area.

2. the practice of communal discernment and ecclesial discernment is very new to him. it is done very seldom only done by ministries but very few consultation only seminars. the practice of discernment and communal consultation is very less because the agenda is already given.

3. there is a synodal consultation with the people. But the discernment of this consultaion is very lacking it is just for report and compliance to the plea of the bishop. Participation of the people is kulang.

4. His ministry is mostly dedication as school director. being oriented with the practice of the school setting goals, thus he applied it to his ministry as a parish priest. thus creating mission, vision and goals, - developmental plan. this goals are planned by the community.

5. his bishop is very dynamic. he planned the diocesan strategic pastoral plan with his priorities with the consultation from the people. the problem is the curia who's authority to follow.

6. decision making is crucial in our personal life. where do we base our decision? in the seminary we are guided by the documents of the church. as a priest where are we basing our decisions? we should be guided by the standard of the church. not by the standard of the rector but by the standard of the church.

7. Discernment - calling the guidance of the spirit in making decisions. everything should be a product of will discerned decisions. because sometimes it is only the product of the decision of a parish priest and the bishop. what happened in the reality is the product of the routine of the parish programs without discerning beyod the program. priest are the agent of discerning and the agent of implementing tis product of discernment.

8. there are consultations from the grassroot level before making and setting up priorities

What is common among us?

1. kulang ang discernment...where is God in this activities. we are like making our own decisions but God is not our decisions.

2. discernment should included prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, especially in the seminary context. he should hold accountable with his decisions on the seminarians.

3. The Diocesan synodal consultation is gipaningkamotan mahimo but mostly it only out of compliance.

4. his decision is only out of his feeling and whims, with failures come he was humbled to ask help from the seasoned priest, and the guidance of the Holy spirit.

5. In the lay empowerment and the desicions of the lay but sometimes when the lay decided the priest will just reprimand them. however, the need for proper lay empowerment be handed down properly.

6. in the seminary we are more to think than to discern and esp. ecclesial discernment. His example, nagdedebate na lahat walang mag give up sa opinion, he just told them to pray the rosary.

7. Pagmatatalino at madadaldal nagsama sama ang hirap ng discernment. "put them individually they shine but put them communally they flunk".

Where God leading us to do?

1. to learn more to listen to the Holy Spirit.

2. a discerning church is a spirit lead church.

Without discernment we cannot recognize the call of the Holy Spirit. (Pope Francis)

Discernmet is a way in which Christians seek God in the context of prayer, scripture, tradition and experience.

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20: Work III

Summary Round 1

1. BEC as essential to ecclesial discernment.

2. Through ecclesial discernment the pastor and

the people are owning the problem as well as the

solutions.

3. Ecclesial discernment is not the monopoly of the

priest.

4. Ecclesial discernment is empowering and

miraculous.

Round 2: RESONANCE

1. The element of prayer.

2. Humility.

3. Synergy.

Round 3: Where is God leading us?

A synodal priest rooted in prayer towards the path

of ecclesial discernment .

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How decisions are supposed to be done?

As a Church, we are working for a more synodal and communal discernment. These are manifested through the sharing of the group:

1. In a seminary set-up, decisions are based on collective opinions of everyone: seminarians, formators and the bishop. Such as during evaluations, whether the decision is for the dismissal or retention of a seminarian, there is no burden or guilt feeling for cutting a said vocation since it was a collegial decision.

2. In the parish level, beautiful action is made that when issues against priests came up, the PPC will face the issues addressed not in defense of the priest but of listening to the sentiment of people as a Church. But this does not include moral matters such as sexual abuse.

In addition, a sequence of ecclesial discernment is shared by one of us: parish CONSULTATION to comunnal DISCERNMENT to active DISCUSSION to owned DECISIONS. This shows a careful decision making done not only by the priest and lay leaders but of everyone, active and not in the Church, highlighting the consultation process. Yet, in contrast to this, the priest must be aware as well of the over-lay-empowerment wherein the parish priests no longer have the say in parish decisions because everything is done and decided by the laity without consultation.

3. While in a diocesan level, the need of the clergy to be listened by the bishop holds great importance especially on decisions wherein priests are the implementors. In order for the clergy to be able to own the programs and decisions in the diocesan level which will be handed down to the parish level, ample time of listening and consultation are needed to have a unified, firm and clear decisions. Not that decisions are already made in the "closed doors".

As a result of our sharing, we come to an idea that decisions are supposed to be done based on responding to the needs of the poor (not only on financial aspect) and listening to them. This also takes humility for the priest to listen to the ideas of the lay especially when it is better from his.

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CONVERSATIONS IN THE SPIRIT 3

"Teaching Ties, Building Communities"

Taking the word and listening

1. Fr. Raul- ecclessial discerment in the seminary includes regular meeting between formands and formators. Recollections with a venue for sharing. Table fellowship is sacred where everyone should be present if schedule permits. As rector the IC with seminarians is crucial for knowing the seminarians.

2. Fr. Aljim- same setup as someone in formation. A consolation in the seminary especially on decision making regarding seminarians. There are instances wherein the Spirit is guiding us during our communal discernment. It gives a sense of peace of mind.

3. Fr. Rustom- on his experience on the mission area especially on the decision that involves the community. For example the dates of fiesta and programs. A process of listening, discernment and openness.

4. Fr. Ben- it is easier for me as parish priest to spearhead a program in parish due to regular meetings. In terms of coordination and cooperation, meetings really are helpful. Consultation is key.

5. Fr. Ruslan- In times of discrepancy, consensus is achieved through communal discernment. Leveling is done before the school year begins to elicit ownership.

Resonances/ Making space for others and the Other

1. Fr. Aljim- on regular colloqium with seminarians and recollection of formators and staff as a good practice. The tendency to be autocratic really requires a degree of humility to consult.

2. Fr. Rustom- the idea of concensus, to listen and accept with all humility.

3. Fr. Raul- on concensus and way of listening. A challenge when your team are close or your seniors. Sharing of ideas and the grace of listening to the community.

4. Fr. Ben- direct support for church leaders  knowing that you are there behind them. To establish trust for the elected church leaders when the needs arise.

5. Fr. Ruslan- 2 things: Peace of mind ( every decision has pros and cons) and Presence (there is no substitute for it)

Building Together/Call to Action

Community discernment is always a challenge that requires sensitivity to the mission of the Church patterned in Christ. Our concrete expression of call to action is to have a welcoming disposition and humble listening allowing spaces and the voices of the other to be heard and be recognized.

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Muchas gracias

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1. Accountability and transparency.

2. The challenge to form a Catholic political group, and the same goes for other charisms in our parish. It is important to consult the diocesan policy.

3. The young people of today are allergic to the words "silence" and "discernment." They do not value silence and do not know how to discern.

4. Sometimes we stay in the shadows of those powerful in the parish—ganito, ganyan system. It is fulfilling for the less fortunate to be on their own and initiate their own activities. The power of sharing in the parish creates a sense of fulfillment.

5. The importance of spiritual nourishment before the agenda of the meeting. The importance of collaboration with the barangay and other local groups.

6.  Revitalize the BEC.The pastoral plan of the parish and the actual plan of the ministries.Suggestions and initiatives from ministries and council are best when they are the fruit of discernment.

7.Let the people get involved in the parish.

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PRACTICES:

Sharer 1: We listen to what our bishop says but when we go to our own parish, diskarte na nga parish priest.

There should be collaboration among parishes

: We have the best practice in our diocese as product of long process of discernment, i.e. standardization of priests subsidy

: Parish Level, parishioners are being pushed to get involved in the discernment process. Unlike before, it was all the decision of the parish priest

Sharer 2. Our new bishop put things into system. The former bishop was just depending on grants.

: Parishes now give percentages of their income

: On the parish level, projects under 500k could be implemented by the parish. Above 500k needs the approval of the bishop. A body helps the bishop to discern

: We have assemblies. At the parish, we discern and implement what our bishop wants us to do

: We have group chat as priests to seek for advices

Sharer 3: There was equal sharing in our allowance but with our new bishop, we come up with a SLA. But we like equal sharing more.

: We now have PFC so priest cannot get a hold of the money

: Bishop creates a lot of ministries with priest incharge in each ministry (like wedding planner)

: Process of discernment put all things into practice

: we want to have a diocesan pastoral assembly to fix our policies

: Our bishop can bring all our politicians to spiritual recollection

: Matapang ang bishop namin

: Our diocese is actively involved in fighting against illegal drugs

: Our financial status is not yet stable

: Our bishop considers first the welfare of priests. Priests are being sent to Galilee Center for formation and discernment

: Parishioners are now being encouraged to make pastoral plans

Sharer 4. We have different vicariates. We gather before priests' assembly to talk about the topics first before the final approval of the archbishop

: This is also the set up in the seminary. We subdivided the seminary into different communities. They decide as groups. They could create their own policies. The formators would decide later on.

: Listening, discerning and deciding

: There is hope because the sense of owning is present

: Age group of priests have their own formation and discernment process

Share 5: We also have active Archdiocesan Council for the Laity. PPC and PFc presidents from all parishes undergo discernment process with our archbishop

COMMON SENTIMENTS

1. Lay empowerment and involvement should be more emphasized

2. Lay formation should also be encouraged before involving them in the discerment process

3. We need the hierarchy of the Church to listen to the grassroots.

4. Discernment should start from the grassroots

5. There should be regular diocesan pastoral assembly to be able to listen to the grassroots

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1. Our common experience

1. There is a need for evaluation in every planning. All are given time to voice out in the Parish. The art of listening and dialogue could lead to good relationships

2. Working together for the mission opens the way for collective results. It is not only the parish priest who works, but together with the lay faithful.

3. Sometimes competitions among parishioners hinders dialogue and ecclesial didcernment. The difficulty of discerning lies in the monopolization of decision-making by the parish priest or even by the lay faithful.

4. The regularity of meetings and encounters with the parish staff volunteers and ministries help a lot in the listening and eventual communal discernment.

5. Constant dialogue and understanding the sentiments of the people involved in ecclesial discernment are essential factors for a synodal environment.

6. It can also happen that our oen preferences and decisions and the preferences and decisioms of the Bishop meet ata certain point and creates a unified and collectiveruit of ecclesial discernment.

7. The collegial decision making in the seminary encourages generosity from the persons involved by setting aside ones own personal interests.

2. Our resonances and resistances

1. Family and consistency

2. Collective spirituality

3. Listening, dialoguing and feedbacking

4. Good communication

5. Friedship and love in dialogue

6. Healthy relationships should include good communication, trust, respect, and love

3. Where the Spirit leads us:

1. A family that lives always in the Spirit of Love

Notetaker: Fr. Vic, Lucena

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FR. RITCHIE

tapping the experts

Collaboration of the church with the experts

Considering the grassroots experience for leveling

House-to-house visitations

The generosity of the poor

There is hope when we set aside insecurities

FR. HITCHON

Participation among the existing lay organizations and ministries

The concerns of the people are surely heard by conducting meetings in the communities to be raised to the PPC-PFC Meeting

The processes, activities and ministries in the parish are reflective of those in the diocesan level

Tapping the experts

FR. ANTONIO

Flexibility of decisions

Consideration of the pulse of the community

Having clear goals, right discernment, proper actions

Going through the process

FR. EMERSON

the presence of a directory from core group to implementing bodies and vice versa

Diocesan- Vicariate- Parish- District -Unit or BEC/ GKK

FR. RIZALINO

processes from head to bec’s and vice versa

Learned the value of trust to his subordinates

Giving people the opportunity to decide

FR. HOWARD

the creativity and differences of priests provide hope for a dynamic church

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FIRST ROUND

Dynamics of Ecclesial Discernment in Parish Ministry

Process: Begins with prayer, SWOT assessments, and concludes with a decision and action plan. Involves both administrative and pastoral activities.

Consultation: Engages the lay pastoral workers and community, extending beyond the parish to the diocesan level.

Formation: Parish and diocesan pastoral formation programs aid communal discernment.

Team Decision: In seminaries, decisions are made as a formation team rather than by the rector alone.

Happy and Difficult Experiences

Challenges: Balancing welcoming parishioners with maintaining boundaries, addressing claims of ownership by contributors to parish construction.

Support: Focus on helping the poorest, embracing communal living through standard living allowances, and providing conferences and formations.

Listening and Action: Formators listen to seminarians' concerns and respond accordingly.

Functioning of Participatory Bodies

Parish Level: Parish priests, parish pastoral council (PPC), and construction committees collaborate to form and implement statements.

Diocesan Level: The bishop listens and helps formulate diocesan pastoral priorities, encouraging parish-level alignment.

Monthly Meetings: Diocesan-wide PPC meetings ensure continuity and consultation.

Seminary Involvement: Young clergy participate in commissions, fostering rapport and addressing diocesan concerns.

Accountability: Emphasis on financial and decision-making accountability.

Signs of Hope

Collaborative Efforts: Belief in the Holy Spirit's guidance through collaborative efforts, recognizing the potential for significant positive outcomes despite challenges.

SECOND ROUND

Listening and Decision-Making

Parish priests and formators emphasize listening in decision-making processes.

This approach fosters a sense of ownership among clergy and lay faithful over programs.

Formation programs are seen as pathways for growth and empowerment.

Activation of Charisms

Recognizing and activating the God-given charisms among the community is crucial.

There is an emphasis on being responsible for using these charisms effectively.

Potential of the Young

The potential and abilities of young members are recognized and nurtured.

Relationships between clergy and lay faithful, as well as between senior and young clergy, are seen as opportunities for growth rather than threats.

Inverted Pyramid Approach

Decisions are made from the grassroots level, symbolizing an inverted pyramid structure.

Programs are designed to be organic, arising from the actual needs of the people.

This approach to ecclesial discernment highlights the importance of communal involvement, the nurturing of individual gifts, and the need for responsive and adaptive program development.

THIRD ROUND

Spirit-Led Outreach: Parish priests and formators are guided by the Holy Spirit to reach out to those on the peripheries, becoming pastorally equipped and contextualized.

Empowerment: Emphasis on empowering the lay faithful, encouraging grassroots engagement as advocated by Pope Francis.

Hearing Needs: By going to the grassroots level, the church hears the needs and clamors of the community, fostering mutual hope.

Source of Hope: Priests and formators are seen as sources of hope, demonstrating openness to the Holy Spirit.

Community Sharing: The community shares its resources, emphasizing collaboration, participation, and service (diakonia).

Collaborative Church: An empathetic church where everyone is heard and valued, promoting a sense of unity and collaboration among all members.

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Conversation in the Spirit 3

Teaching Ties,Building Communities

Exp.dynamics of ecclesial discernment:

Diocesan level

a. Pastoral assembly on synodality hearing from their claimors,concerns,issues,struggles,scandals of faith,immorality,invironmental issues,LGBTQ+issues,(new ministries were born,like commission on LGBT,on Ex-Seminarian,on Politician) diocese of Tandag has been practicing these. On going formation of the clergy is on going,and priests are not anymore reluctant to the invitatio. It has become part of our journey as diocese.

B. Other dioceses have not yet into the serious and deep dynamics of ecclesial discernment. Bishop has the only sole authority in implemeting the process, he jist listend to the lay faithful about the matters and the clergy is not heard attentively. Even during consultation only some individuals are ask to go to the BEC level,not all the people are involved. So priests are also hesitant to do the listening process and just listen to cerntain individuals and not the whole community.

1. Parish level

The maintenance mode of having synodal process of ecclecial discernment has been praticed such as, ppc meeting,parish finance meeting, ministries and apostolates meeting. Some are depending only to the command of the bishop of creating new carsisms and so it needs to be proposed to the parish and diocesan level.

3. Our hopes

A. Vibrant respond: There is good sign bec of the interest of the people to the ecclesial discernment and people are willing to listen and to be listened to.

B. We are not alone: many are committted in this synodal process of decision making, and ministries were functioning bec of the transparency and accountabilty felt by the faithful in the process of discernment.

C. Lay fiathful are willing for deep knowledge and somehow "new way" of making descision.

D. Note: the process of spiritual conversation needs to be followed in all discerning process??

The 3 steps?

(Prayer)

1.Taking the word...

2.Making space for others...

3.Building together...

(Prayer)

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1st Round

1.1 Seminary Context discipline before and now are different, mentoring started in that way the formandees are given importance.

Compassionate assessment of the formandees. It's a sign of trust and maturity, to be honest and transparent. Building ties, there are things to consider. To teach the formandees in the spirit of dialogue.

I listen to them and discern. It's a grace to let them see what is proper. It's important to let them recognize the movement of formation.

1.2- We cannot have communities without ties, without connection, without relationship. Ecclesial discernment is easy because they are living in a small community. Ecclesial discernment is hard, it's a challenge but when done properly with patience we can produce a firm ties. Ecclesial discernment is not only dependent on the parish priest. Empower and implement pastoral programs.

1.3- One of the cruicial factors is to start from the basic. The bishop is not that supportive on Synodality. We cannot feel the support.

Even how zealous we are, but no support from the local leader we cannot do otherwise.

1.4- The bishop is very supportive on building Ecclesial Commumities. There's no problem on the Synodal processes. Movements of synodality are initiated and everyone is encouraged to participate.

1.5- The bishop is not synodal. There's no dialogue. I am focused on the ministry. On our own we form a dialogue group. We discern and pray in the Holy hour as groups. Eventually we dialogue with the bishop and gradually everything is settled. It's God's grace.

1.6- Communal Discernment is listening to each other.

2nd Round Resonance

2.1-How willing are we? How can I survive? Communal discernment means not "I" but what's good for the Church.

2.2- Doctrines are important, the meeting is a about how we run the parish. The sense of faith of the people must be recognized because they are baptized. Openness to the sense of faith.

2.3- Traditionalists do not accept the Vatican II and the Divine Mercy.

3rd Round

The Synod is convoked by the Holy Spirit.