Philippine Religious Urged to Become Peacemakers
Sister Simona Brambilla, Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, delivered a pre-recorded video message during the Second Convention of the Conference of Major Superi…
Sister Simona Brambilla, Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, delivered a pre-recorded video message during the Second Convention of the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines held in Zamboanga City. In her address, she emphasized the importance of recognizing God in the vulnerable and urged the consecrated women and men present to become 'disarmed and disarming' prophets of peace, capable of recognizing God in the fragile and wounded realities of today's world.
The five-day gathering, which took place from 1 to 5 September, brought together 233 participants, including Major Superiors, mission partners, and collaborators. Themed 'Consecrated Persons: Prophetic Witnesses of Peace in a Wounded World,' the convention aimed to foster a deeper commitment to peace among religious communities.
Sister Brambilla reflected on biblical figures Simeon and Anna, who recognized the Messiah in humility and simplicity, urging attendees to emulate their 'humble, silent, meek' attributes. She described Simeon as one who knew how to wait, encouraging those gathered to act as 'sentinels in a perpetual Advent'—vigilant to the daily 'small and fragile signs' of God's presence.
Anna's life of prayer and fasting was also discussed, with Sister Brambilla suggesting that fasting could serve as a means of renunciation from everything that does not lead to God. She affirmed that this spiritual discipline could ultimately foster a greater commitment to peace and love in the world.
During the convention, Fr. Lino Gregorio Redoblado, OFM, Chairperson of the Conference, underscored the significance of communion within the group, stating that the conference embodies a collective effort rather than just the work of its Board or Secretariat. He asserted that religious life in the Philippines must engage with the struggles and wounds of the community while emphasizing the importance of formation as a lifelong journey.
The phrase 'MULAT–DAMA–TINDIG–PAGHAYO' guided the convention's themes, encouraging participants to recognize Christ amid societal wounds. They explored various topics, including the political and ecclesiastical situations in the Philippines and the circumstances of elderly consecrated persons. The convention also highlighted the necessity for intentional communication in the digital age, focusing on fostering connections that are more formative and evangelistic.
As the convention drew to a close, attendees celebrated their diversity and unity through cultural events, culminating in a public commitment to their renewed mission as witnesses of peace. Sister Brambilla concluded by calling upon the religious gathered to 'fast from everything that is not peace, that is not love, that does not come from God,' reiterating Pope Leo XIV's appeal for a peace that is 'disarmed and disarming' in response to the world's challenges.
