On October 18, 2024, the Feast of St. Luke, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) culminated its regional assemblies for 2024 with two simultaneous events in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental for CEAP Negros Island and Silang, Cavite for CEAP Region IV. This milestone, guided by the theme “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality”, draws to close the 2024 National Convention in November 12-15, 2024; a significant step towards the Year of Prayer in 2025.
Negros Island Region Assembly: A Celebration of Unity and Hope
At Kyla's Event Hall in Sipalay City, approximately 175 delegates from Catholic and Diocesan schools and universities from all over the region gathered for the CEAP Negros Island Regional Assembly. The event commenced with a heartfelt Eucharistic celebration led by Msgr. Rolando C. Nueva, Vicar General of the Diocese of Kabankalan. In his homily, he reminded attendees of the core values of Christian education: mercy, compassion, justice, peace, and joy. To walk the talk of this year’s theme, and to be a community of communities, journeying together in service of love and hope; and in synodality, to listen and pray together. He ended his homily with an appeal to CEAP to make quality education available to the poor.
Dr. Ronel Sapu-an's energetic introduction of delegates set the tone for the gathering. Br. Joaquin Severino S. Martinez, FSC, D. Min, President of University of Saint La Salle - Bacolod, warmly welcomed School Presidents, School Heads, Principals, Distinguished Guests, and Lay Participants into the annual gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration.
A Call for Reflection and Action
CEAP President Fr. Albert N. Delvo, PhD, delivered a powerful message, urging and reminding everyone that as "pilgrims", everyone is involved and included in embracing the journey together. He emphasized the value of inclusivity, creativity, and hope in addressing the Catholic Schools challenges and of the country's educational crisis.
Fr. Delvo quoted Pope Francis in one of his pastoral statements, "Hope leaves peace inside, regardless of what happens outside… giving strength to overcome all tribulations." He challenged the community to shift from maintenance mode to missionary dynamism to shape a brighter future.
Mr. Jose Allan I. Arellano, CEAP Executive Director, presented a report of the accomplishment of the National Office for a period of one year. He highlighted the activities and programs of the CEAP Commission, Committees and various bodies created by the Board. These activities are aligned to the vision-mission of the CEAP as stipulated in the Strategic Directions outlined this year.
Key Highlights and the Steps Forward
The assembly also featured:
1. Keynote address by Most Rev. Louie P. Galbines, SThD, D.D, Bishop of Kabankalan City
2. EdCom2 video presentation followed by Spiritual Conversations*
3. Plenary session and Business Meeting
*The outcome of the NIR assembly’s spiritual dialogues together with the rest of the regional outputs will be further discussed and developed during the National Convention’s Concurrent Sessions in November 2024.
Gratitude and Congratulations
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fr. Raymond Lachica, MAED, Chairman-Commission on Education, Diocese of Kabankalan, and his team for graciously hosting the event, and to Br. Martinez and his team for the National Office’s warm welcome and safe ride to and from Sipalay City.
Congratulations to everyone involved in making the CEAP Negros Island’s Regional Assembly a resounding success!
May the spirit of synodality, hope, and unity continue to guide CEAP's journey towards fulfilling its goals and missions in solidarity and synodality towards transformative education, and forward into discernment and advocacy!
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