Catechists’ Congress 2025: A New Direction of Listening and Communion

By Kirstie Kaye S. Tino

About 800 Catechists from the different parishes and vicariates of the Archdiocese of Caceres came together at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia for the annual Catechists’ Congress last Monday, Oct 6.

The morning session featured a plenary talk by Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, who, guided by the theme “Katekista: Paratukdo, pasiring sa Simbahan na nagkakasararo,” reflected on the Catechist as a Paratukdo, a lifelong learner and disciple eager to grow in faith and understanding, especially through continuing formation. 

Pasiring is the ongoing process of conversion and renewal and Simbahan is the banwaan nin Diyos, a community of faith where everyone participates and teaches by example. 

Makikisumaro is the call to accompany others through presence and good works, reminding the Catechists that the most powerful catechesis comes from witnessing.

The Congress also introduced a new and meaningful way of listening and communicating, known as the Spiritual Conversations. More than 130 breakout groups were formed. Catechists prayed together, shared stories and listened to one another in the spirit of synodality. This activity invited them to reflect deeply on their mission as educators of the faith.

Through this, the Congress became a moment of encounter, reflection and shared discernment, truly embodying the spirit of a Church journeying together in unity and mission.

The gathering concluded with a eucharistic celebration presided over by Caceres Catechetical Ministry Director, Rev. Fr. Juan Pablo Z. Carpio, and with the conferment of service awards to Catechist Jubilarians.