After six years, over 5,000 catechists from the Archdiocese of Cebu gathered for the Archdiocesan General Catechists’ Assembly at Toledo City Sports Center – Megadome yesterday, September 30.

This year’s assembly is rooted in the theme, “Teachers of Prayer, bearers of Hope.”

The event commenced with a Holy Mass, presided over by Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma. With him were Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Ruben Labajo, Msgr. Rey Penagunda, Rev. Fr. Joseph Yntig (Director, Archdiocese of Cebu Catechetical Ministry), and other visiting priests.

In his homily, Archbishop Palma highlighted that the work of catechists is a continuing journey. “Walay graduation,” in the words of the Archbishop.

Before the final blessing, the Lesson Plan, a comprehensive guide for catechists featuring seven simple, systematic, and Cebuano-written books, was launched.

The assembly was also graced by His Excellency Most Rev. Alberto “Abet” Uy, Bishop of Tagbilaran, with his enriching talk entitled: “Jubilee Year 2025: Pilgrims of Hope.”

“Higugmaa ang mga katekista,” encouraged Bishop Abet to the priests.

“If you want to be assured your children are being taken care of, take good care of their mother…Kon gusto mo nga ang inyong mga parakoyano maatiman, higugmaa ang mga katekista,” he said.

In the afternoon, representative catechists from the eight districts showcased their dancing and singing skills.

Winners of the Katekistang Sugboanon competition are:

1st: District 8 (Near North Cebu)
2nd: District 2 (Metro Cebu South)
3rd: District 7 (Mid-North Cebu)

In his closing remarks, Fr. Yntig reminded the catechists to always attribute everything today to God—not to themselves.

“Tungod sa Ginoo, mao ni nga gipahimutang tang tanan. Apan, ang Ginoo mogamit usab og mga tawo aron sad Iyang ikapadayag ang matawag nato’g paghigugma og pag-uban kanato,” he said.

Let us continue to pray for our catechists and pray for more young people to step out in faith and join the work of evangelism.