2nd National Congress of the Clergy

From January 25 to 29, 2010, around 5500 priests and bishops from all over the Philippines gathered for a spiritual retreat at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. The main speaker was Fr. Rainero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap., who is also the Spiritual Director of the Holy Father and the preacher at the Papal Household. Bishop Luis Antonio Tagle of the Diocese of Imus also gave some spiritual input.

The retreat is the highlight of the celebration of the Year of the Priests, June 2009 to June 2010. The theme of the gathering was “Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of the Priest”.  Around 87 SVDs from the three Philipppine Provinces were present: 65 from PHC, 12 from PHN, and 10 from PHS. The main speaker was highly appreciated for his clear explanations and the impact of his personal witnessing. For many however, the experience of being together with fellow priests especially in prayer was a rare event that truly uplifted the spirit. Fr. Cantalamessa made all of us proclaim loudly and proudly:”Lord, We are happy to be your priests!”