Strengthening the Ministry of Social Services: The Archdiocese of Lipa's Annual Pastoral Assembly
From October 6 to 8, 2023, the Archdiocese of Lipa is set to host its Annual Pastoral Assembly, focusing on the Ministry of Social Services (MSS). This event, which will take place at the Lipa Archdiocesan Formation Center (LAFORCE), is a critical initiative aimed at equipping pastoral workers with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively serve the poor and marginalized members of society. This assembly follows the mandate of the Archbishop of Lipa to meet annually for assessment and strategic planning.
In the pursuit of making social services accessible to the underprivileged and marginalized sectors of society, the Archdiocese of Lipa is dedicated to capacitating its pastoral workers in the field of social action apostolate. A significant step in this direction was the workshop held in Alfonso, Cavite on August 6-7, 2022, where eighty-four MSS pastoral workers gathered. This workshop, led and facilitated by His Excellency, Most Rev. Gilbert A. GARCERA, D.D., emphasized the importance of pastoral synergy for coordinated efforts across various ministries.
The Annual Pastoral Assembly was attended by MSS Coordinators representing various categories within the Archdiocese, including the Archdiocesan Commission, Parishes, Religious Men and Women, and Schools. This diverse representation ensures a broad perspective and expertise in addressing the unique needs of different segments of the community.
The assembly aims to:
1. Identify Challenges and Propose Solutions: By acknowledging the difficulties faced by pastoral workers in their service to the poor, the assembly seeks to propose collective actions that address social issues within the province, fostering inclusivity and compassion.
2. Empower Pastoral Workers: The assembly will provide training and insights into various pastoral tools and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of pastoral workers, enabling them to better serve marginalized communities.
3. Plan for the World Day of the Poor: The assembly will concentrate on organizing activities for the 7th World Day of the Poor, an annual event initiated by Pope Francis to promote solidarity with the impoverished and underscore the significance of aiding the less fortunate.
The Annual Pastoral Assembly of the Archdiocese of Lipa, with its focus on the Ministry of Social Services, is an important step toward creating a more inclusive and caring society. By identifying challenges, equipping pastoral workers, and planning for the World Day of the Poor, this assembly plays a pivotal role in advancing the social action apostolate and making a positive impact on the lives of the poor and marginalized in the province. It signifies the commitment of the Archdiocese of Lipa to uphold the principles of compassion and social justice, building a stronger and more caring community for all.