Aiming to strengthen ecclesial leadership and to more faithfully accompany both the clergy and the lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Cebu, the Vicars General, Episcopal Vicars (EVs), and Vicars Forane (VFs) from the various districts and vicariates gathered at the Filipiniana Hall of the Archbishop’s Residence for a time of discernment and orientation on good Church governance.
In his message, Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy posed a pastoral challenge to the EVs and VFs, emphasizing that their role is not a decoration but a participation in the bishop’s pastoral heart.
“You do not simply represent my authority. You share my burden, my concern, my sleepless nights, and my hope for our people,” said Archbishop Abet.
He asked the priests and monsignori never to forget that they are fathers first before they are managers, for the district and vicariate do not need another office that issues memos. Rather, they need a presence that listens, accompanies, and corrects with love.
“A good vicar does not wait for problems to explode. He walks early with his brothers, especially the quiet ones. Remember, a priest rarely leaves because of too much work. He leaves because he feels alone. If your priests feel accompanied, the people will be cared for,” he exhorted.
He also urged them to facilitate communion, and not to block communication between the bishop and the clergy.
“When priests speak to you, listen deeply. When the bishop asks for something, explain it pastorally rather than defensively. Your role is not to say, “That’s not possible.” Your role is to ask, “How can we walk toward this together” Synodality will fail in Cebu if vicars become gatekeepers instead of bridge-builders,” he said.
More than the position, they too should lead with moral credibility. Meaning, their influence should not come from the title, but from the simplicity of their life, their prayer, their transparency, and their integrity in money and relationships.
“Priests do not follow you because you are appointed. They follow you because they trust you. In our time—when the Church is watched closely by society— we cannot afford leaders who are correct in policy but weak in witness. Your life must be your loudest homily,” said Archbishop Abet.
As we embark on a long synodal journey toward 2034, he encouraged them to help the Church move forward, and not stay comfortable.
“This journey will not move forward if districts and vicariates remain reactive instead of proactive, maintenance-oriented instead of mission-oriented, comfortable instead of courageous. The people are waiting for a Church that goes out, not one that stays safe,” he said.
Lastly, the good Archbishop asked the EVs and VFs to walk with him, not ahead of him, nor behind him.
“Do not walk ahead of the bishop as if you know better. Do not walk behind as if you are afraid to lead. Walk with me—in honesty, dialogue, and shared responsibility. If you disagree, speak. If you are tired, say so. If you see danger, warn me. I do not need perfect vicars. I need truthful, prayerful, courageous companions,” said Archbishop Abet.
Let us continue to pray for our administrators that they may be vicars after the Heart of Christ— firm in truth, gentle in love, and always close to our people.