LAIKO held its 23rd National Biennial Convention in Palo, Leyte on October 27-29, 2023 with the theme “United in Mission as a Synodal Church.” More than 300 delegates represented the 28 Lay Organizations and the 37 Diocesan Councils of the Laity. The Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas (Council of the Laity of the Philippines) or LAIKO is a public association of the faithful which was established by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in order to develop the consultation and collaboration of the lay faithful.
The Lord’s Flock Community was represented by spouses Bro. Dinky and Sis. Te Florentino and Bro. Abet and Sis. Annie Johnson.
The convention opened on Oct. 27 with a Mass celebrated by Most Rev. John F. Du, D.D., Archbishop of Palo at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration. This was followed by a welcome dinner that showcased the awesome presentations of the many talented residents of Palo.
On Oct. 28, the keynote speaker, Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, D.D. discussed what a “Synodal Church” meant. To have “synod” means to walk together / to journey together. A Synodal Church is a contemplative church, a listening church and a discerning church. A synodal church is concerned to give all a place and a voice; it is creative in reaching out to those who are often unseen, unheard, or seldom thought of.
Co-responsibility as servant leaders in the life and mission of the Church was discussed by Rev. Fr. Jason Laguerta and Dr. Erickson Javier. Bro. Roque Ponte, LAIKO’s immediate past president, talked about the Formation of the Lay Faithful expounding on John 15: 5 & 16.
A recap of the previous day’s talks was given on Oct. 29 by Ms. Mayette Bugaon. The By-laws was also discussed this day, where our very own Bro. Dinky Florentino clarified some matters. The election of officers was also held on this day, where Bro. Dinky was elected as one of the Board of Trustees.
The Convention was closed with a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Rev. Msgr. Gilbert G. Urbina, SThD, SLL, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Palo.
To God be the glory!
Written by: Sis. Te Florentino (Scribes Ministry)
