CCOST sets direction for Welcoming Church

Today, the members of the AoC 2034 Coordinating Council on Synodal Transformation (CCOST) met at the Filipiniana Hall of the Archbishop’s Residence.

Present at the meeting were Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy, Msgr. Roger Fuentes, Vicar General, the chairpersons of various Archdiocesan Commissions and Ministries, and several lay members of the CCOST.

The meeting began with an update on the implementation of the “Listening Church” in the eight districts of the Archdiocese. The initiative recorded an 81.14% participation rate, with 142 of the 175 parishes in Cebu taking part. This was followed by the sharing of experiences and feedback from priests and lay formators involved in the process.

Fr. Trazo then read the Archbishop’s message, which serves as the backbone of the 2027 pastoral thrust and sets the direction for the transition from a “Listening Church” to a “Welcoming Church.” The message invites all to be a Church where people feel at home, welcoming everyone with truth and without judgment.

Lastly, an implementation guide was presented to support the goal of becoming a “Welcoming Church.” It was summarized by nine movements: to notice, to listen, to receive, to make room, to accompany, to heal, to include, to belong, and to go forth.

As we continue this pastoral journey towards 2034, let us pray that these formation initiatives will inspire renewed faith, strengthen communion, and empower every member of the Church. May we become more welcoming and active witnesses of Christ’s love.