The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community actively participated in the 2024 Federation of National Youth Organizations (FNYO) Convention that was held from October 11 to 13 at Angels’ Hills, Tagaytay. The convention was spearheaded by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Youth (CBCP ECY). It was graced by the Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D. and Fr. Jade Licuanan, Chair and Executive Secretary, respectively, of CBCP ECY. Twenty-three (23) organizations and communities participated in the 3-day convention; all were eager to connect, learn from one another, and manifest unity in diversity that was in line with the theme “Empowered as One” (Iisa Kahit Magkakaibaa)
The Lord’s Flock, Treasurer of the FNYO, sent a young delegation to experience and learn from this activity: Grace Pancho – EVANGELIZE Ministry Head Steward, Carl Tolentino – Bamban, Tarlac Chapter Steward and Francheska De Castro – Youth Leader.
Day 1
Session 1 Part 1: Raising the Urgency, Reigniting the Fervor
Fr. Jade Licuanan opened the convention with a powerful message on the importance of the FNYO mission. He emphasized the urgency of reigniting the passion among the youth, encouraged the organizations to find power in being one and to recognize their crucial role in transforming society. He also highlighted the strength that comes from unity; he noted that the success of one organization contributes to the success of all, while the failure of one affects everyone. This collective responsibility underlined the need for solidarity and collaboration among youth organizations.
Session 1 Part 2: Reigniting the Fervor of Our First Love
Meta Coaches Vanessa Salvaña and Aldem Salvaña led a session focused on personal reflection; they guided the participants on how to rediscover and sustain the fervor of their “first love” for the mission. They emphasized the importance of being “intentional” Christians who are driven by a clear sense of purpose, and highlighted how positive self-talk and daily reminders of one’s mission can shape a fulfilling life.
Session 2 Part 1: DISC Behavior Styles – Working Amidst Diversity
Participants explored the DISC behavior styles (Dominance, Influencer, Steadiness, and Conscientious) and learned about the Platinum Rule: “Treat others the way they want to be treated.” The session emphasized the importance of understanding and adapting to different personalities within teams to effectively address the mission’s needs. Leaders were encouraged to embody the 3As—Awareness, Acceptance, and Adaptation— that are essential traits for fostering unity and collaboration.
Dinner and Fellowship Night
The first day concluded with a lively fellowship night which allowed participants to build camaraderie and strengthen connections over shared meals and conversations.
Day 2:
Morning Mass and Commissioning Rites
The day began with a Morning Mass and Commissioning Rites officiated by Bishop Rex Alarcon, who blessed the participants, and reaffirmed their dedication to serve as youth leaders.
Breakfast and Morning Praise
Following a communal breakfast, participants joined in uplifting morning praise, which energized them for the day’s sessions.
Session 2 Part 2: Understanding Behavior Styles and Adaptive Leadership
This session delved deeper into the DISC behavior styles. It focused on how understanding and adapting to different styles can enhance teamwork and leadership. The importance of effective communication, particularly in the context of coaching, was underscored.
Mentoring and Coaching: The Ignatian Approach
The session introduced the Ignatian approach to mentoring, which advocates listening more and speaking less. Vanessa Salvanna emphasized that true coaching is about guiding others to discover their potential, rather than merely providing answers. To equip youth leaders to effectively mentor the next generation, she highlighted the importance of asking powerful questions along with key skills from Meta-Coaching.
Dinner and Fellowship Night
The day ended with another fellowship night, which offered further opportunities for networking, relaxation, and building meaningful connections.
Day 3:
Session 3 Part 1: Strategic Planning with the Appreciative Inquiry Framework
Participants were introduced to the Appreciative Inquiry framework, a strategic planning tool designed to inspire growth. The five stages —Define, Discover, Dream, Design, and Deploy —were discussed. Subsequently, the participating organizations were encouraged to align their plans with their shared mission and values.
Principles of Appreciative Inquiry
The session also highlighted the core principles of Appreciative Inquiry, which include:
- Your Words Create Your World: The language shapes reality. Positive, constructive words foster a hopeful and empowering environment.
- Inquiry Creates Change: The act of asking questions initiates transformation.
- Choose What To Study: Concentrating on strengths and opportunities leads to positive change.
- Images Inspire Action: Visions about the future drive present actions. Positive, compelling images motivates to turn them into reality.
- Positive Questions Lead to Positive Changes: Asking questions that focus on strengths and possibilities brings out the best in people and consequently promotes collaboration and constructive solutions.
Session 3 Part 2: Revisiting the Ministry’s Mission
Youth leaders revisited the core mission of their respective organizations and reaffirmed their commitments to align their actions with the broader call of the Church to serve. This session laid the groundwork for continued purpose-driven efforts beyond the convention.
Holy Mass
The event concluded with a Holy Mass which reinforced the spiritual foundation of the youth leaders’ mission.
An Urgent Call to Action for the Youth
As the event ended, participants were reminded of the clear call to action: “The time is now to reignite the fire of our first love for Christ and His mission.” Each youth leader was challenged to step into their roles with renewed passion and acknowledge that the mission cannot wait. The focus on collaboration, adaptability, and service in the face of diversity was emphasized. Specifically, The Lord’s Flock delegation and the FNYO youth leaders committed to lead the way toward a future that is united in faith and purpose.
Re-election of The Lord’s Flock in the FNYO Council
The election for the FNYO council for the term of 2025-2027 was done during the 3rd day of the convention. The Lord’s Flock was re-elected to be part of the council. Since the Community’s acceptance into the FNYO in 2018, this is now its 3rd term to be used by God. Thank you, Lord, for the privilege to serve.
The three-day experience was indeed enriching and empowering. The meaningful teachings equipped the participants with strategic tools for their organizations’ missions, while the fellowship sessions fostered camaraderie and unity in serving the Lord. As the delegates go back to their respective organizations, they will be the spark that will spread the fire and passion to their fellow youth groups and to their general membership.
To God be the glory!
SCRIBES Ministry
Written by: Franceska de Castro
