Recollection set for bets

CEBU, Philippines - As the May 2013 elections draw closer, church-based groups are gearing up to help political candidates and the community in getting ready.

Dilaab Foundation Inc. and Couples for Christ invite more stakeholders and candidates to participate in a “discernment recollection” this coming February 15 at the Sacred Heart Center, D. Jakosalem Street Cebu City.

With Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle as the recollection master, the recollection aims “to develop and heighten the process of listening to and strengthening  a God-fearing conscience to prepare oneself for the moral rigors of the coming electoral exercise.’

The first part of the recollection, from 9 in the morning to 12 noon, would be for election stakeholders including those from government agencies like the Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Education, Department of Interior and Local Government as well as those from the academe, board of canvassers, lay leaders, parishes, C-CIMPEL and religious communities.

This morning session, which would have the theme “Listening: Key to genuine and effective companioning of public servants,” will stress the importance of listening as engaged citizens during the election.

The afternoon session, with a theme “Listening: Key to credible and effective public service,” would be for political candidates and members of their team to help them recognize the “vocation dimension” of their chosen field.

Fr. Carmelo Diola, overall coordinating steward of Dilaab Foundation, Inc., said that the activity is “one of a series of activities where a network of concerned citizens and groups all over Cebu province will be formed to offer pastoral accompaniment to Catholics, other Christians, and other people of goodwill working in politics.”

Last year, Dilaab also had a discernment recollection for those who were thinking of running for office.

During the discernment recollection, candidates were asked to answer the LASER (Lifestyle, Action, Supporters, Election conduct, Reputation) test in which questions would help them further discern on their decision to seek office. — /JPM (FREEMAN)