Synodal Decrees (English Version)
DECREES ON JUSTICE
FOR THE DIOCESE
1. That a committee composed of priests and civil lawyers be formed for more effective action in helping the victims of injustices.
2. That the existing Boac Lingkod-Pari Foundation, Inc. be strengthened to support the needs of the priests.
3. That a committee be established to study and secure the welfare of the workers of the Diocese and parishes (such as SSS, PhilHealth and other benefits).
4. That programs of the Diocese for the youth be intensified especially for the poor and out of school youth.
5. That there should be concrete programs for the welfare of the senior citizens, victims of child abuse and labor, the sick and disabled.
6. That there be continuous and extensive campaign for environmental protection against massive mining (open-pit, underground, etc.) and other industries or activities that affect greatly the environment and ecology of the province.
7. That there should be an extensive and critical study on the implementation of Parish Self-Sufficiency Program which would eventually lead to the abolition of the Arancel System.
8. That there be a continuous study and conscientization programs on human rights and responsibilities in the different aspects of life: personal, cultural, spiritual, social and political, especially during election time.
FOR THE CLERGY
9. That the priests may live up to the true spirit of brotherhood, simplicity, and justice.
10. That they be sensitive to attend to the needs of the workers in the parish and to be careful and prudent in giving criticisms to the lay ministers of the Holy Mass.
11. That they be fair and just to all people when ministering and celebrating the Sacraments and Sacramentals.
12. That all priests be involved and commit themselves to stand for issues on justice and morality.
13. That priests intensify their services to those in the rural areas for them to learn the people’s longings, aspirations, and dreams thus addressing their concrete needs.
14. That they be models of justice and truth as they preach the Word of God.
15. That they give special attention and concern to the poor, oppressed, and disabled and maintain a welcoming spirit for them at all times.
FOR THE LAITY
16. That they actively participate in the Church’s activities and in solving the present problems according to the law of the Church.
17. That they encourage, guide, and help the officials of government, schools and community in order to act properly according to the just law of God and man.
18. That they share their treasure, talents, and time in serving the people.
19. That they be collaborators and partners of priests in moral, and spiritual issues, and that they be supportive to the financial needs of priests.
20. That they be continuously active in serving the Church regardless of whoever priest may be assigned in their Parish.
FOR THE PARISH
21. That the formation and organization of BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano) living the virtue of justice be intensified and systematized in the barangays.
22. That proper support be given to the organizers of BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano).
23. That a legal council be organized and a budget be allotted for the needs of the victims of injustices.
24. That financial support be redoubled for Catechetical Program.
25. That there be programs on on-going formation of conscience in the form of adult catechism to address the present problems of the faithful.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FORMATION
26. That there be a continuous program and support for the formation of catechists on justice.
27. That there be an extensive, systematic, and advanced training for the people on justice based on the Social Teachings of the Church for them to know and promote the importance of human rights.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON WORSHIP
28. That there be a regular study of those who serve in the altar (lay ministers, acolytes, altar servers, lectors, commentators) on justice.
29. That the priests and the faithful strengthen and support the choir as an essential element of Liturgical celebrations.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON SERVICE
30. That Cooperatives be encouraged and strengthened especially in the remote barangays.
31. That “Justice and Peace Desk” be established to resolve issues and violations against human rights.
32. That there be a “Counseling Ministry” for the families of the prisoners.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FAMILY AND LIFE
33. That the whole family be involved in the activities and programs of the Church regarding justice.
34. That the Matrimonial Court of the Diocese be made operational.
35. That there should be a massive campaign and conscientization on the immoralities of abortion and the use of artificial contraceptives.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH
36. That concrete programs be intensified to answer the needs of the youth regarding justice.
37. That the youth be taught about the evils brought about by various vices and guide them to get involved in social issues.
FOR THE SCHOOLS
38. That the teachers and students be encouraged continuously to get involved in the Church’s activities and on issues regarding justice.
39. That the faithful support the Catholic Schools and strengthen the Parent-Teachers Community Association (PTCA).
40. That a study be conducted and justice be served by giving appropriate financial assistance to the teachers and poor but deserving students.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON VOCATION AND MISSION
41. That there be an early, continuous, and intensified formation of seminarians on justice.
FOR THE RELIGIOUS
42. That their services to the poor be intensified.
43. That every religious become sensitive to the needs of their fellow religious.
44. That they get involve in the activities and programs of the parishes and the Diocese on justice.
ADDITIONAL SEPARATE PROPOSAL
45. That mutual cooperation and continuous collaboration between the Church and the Government be intensified on issues about justice.
DECREES ON LOVE
FOR THE CLERGY
46. That priests become role models in giving love and concern to the people by their continuous pastoral zeal to programs, which are initiated by the Diocese and implemented in the parish in the spirit of charity and reflected in the celebration of the Sacraments especially the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.
47. That priests visit the sick more often and respond immediately to those in need especially in giving the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick.
48. That priests devote more time and attention to parish members in remote places or barangays. (“barangay-babad”).
49. That priests be the first to show unity, love, and brotherhood among themselves.
50. That priests give priority in attending to the needs of fellow priests; defend them against false gossips and allegations and devote time to listen to problems of brother-priests.
51. That priests be models of love for prayer, the Sacrament of the Eucharist and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
52. That priests cooperate and strengthen their relationship with the different departments in the government (barangay, municipal, provincial, national) in order to address and resolve the various problems affecting the people.
53. That priests continuously educate the faithful community on the value and importance of the Holy Eucharist.
54. That priests get involve in promoting the spirit of Ecumenism.
FOR THE LAITY
55. That the laity show deep understanding and response to the needs and concerns of the priests and religious sisters.
56. That the laity support the priests in their moral, spiritual and financial needs.
57. That the laity be responsive to the needs of others especially the youth, senior citizens, farmers, fishermen, disabled persons, prisoners, and families of migrant workers.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON LITURGY
58. That liturgical songs be classified and practiced consistently for proper and meaningful liturgical celebrations.
59. That a system or variations in conformity with the norms of Liturgy be designed in order to have a more active, alive, meaningful celebration of the Mass, especially during significant and important celebrations in the parish or the Diocese.
60. That the faithful be continuously formed and given updated training on the value of the Holy Eucharist as the center of Christian Life.
61. That local devotions and unique traditions found in the province be enriched and internalized, making them parts of Christian life in the community.
62. That a Catechetical instruction be provided in different liturgical rites and gestures found in the liturgical and para-liturgical celebrations.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FORMATION
63. That due attention and thorough catechesis be given on preserving and protecting the environment and natural resources (marine reserve, water shed, sea farming, waste management).
64. That the Local Church and Local Government establish coordination and cooperation in giving scholarship grant to the poor and deserving youth.
65. That moral and financial support be established for the proper implementation of programs concerning scholarship grants, the formation of the members of the faith community and the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC).
66. That a sufficient and continuous training be provided to members of the commission towards a more effective means of teaching and developing relevant strategies and systems (critical thinking) that resonates the challenges of the present time and leads toward achieving well-informed mind.
67. That Catechists be given ongoing training and study on preserving and protecting the environment.
68. That spiritual programs like retreat, recollection, workshop-seminar, etc. be given regularly to government employees so that they may become effective servants of man and God.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON SERVICE
69. That Alay-Kapwa Program be strengthened in all parishes.
70. That livelihood and housing programs for those who are in need be given due attention and implementation.
71. That doctors and/or medics be tapped and formed to cater to the needs of the sick and the infirmed; and that regular Medical Missions be scheduled.
72. That concrete programs that are responsive to the moral, legal, spiritual, and material needs of the prisoners be established.
73. That the needs of the impoverished, oppressed and exploited members of the community be fully addressed and given thorough attention.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FAMILY LIFE
74. That adult catechism be part of the program for the formation of the Community.
75. That concrete programs and communal actions (e.g., family enrichment and counseling program for single parents, battered wives and husbands, amicable settlements of land disputes, etc.) be sponsored so that a sambahayan or kapit-sambahayan be created where the spirit of community, reconciliation, understanding and cooperation dwell especially during times of crises and urgent needs.
76. That the Diocesan Matrimonial Court be fully activated and made operational.
77. That the Filipino and Christian traditions of care giving towards the elderly and parents be continued and nourished.
78. That a program on Responsible Parenthood and Natural Family Planning be strengthened so that the culture of death may be stopped.
79. That the sacred character of the Sacrament of Marriage be given due importance and value.
FOR THE COMMISION ON YOUTH APOSTOLATE
80. That a Scholarship Program be established for the poor but deserving youth who wants to pursue their studies.
81. That the priests and parish communities show appropriate concern and support for the youth.
82. That concrete programs be established that will cater to the indigent children.
83. That concrete livelihood program be established for the out-of-school youth.
84. That by strengthening the various formation programs, studies and initiatives, the youth may be led to the right understanding of love as grounded solidly on the Gospels and Teachings of the Church.
85. That the youth be guided and helped to understand fully the meaning and demands of love especially with their own family.
86. That the various forms of technology and means of communications be used as tools for catechetical instructions such as radio, CATV, internet and text messaging.
FOR THE COMMISION ON VOCATION
87. That a program be established which will make parents of those called to religious and priestly vocations open and supportive to their children.
88. That a thorough campaign for more religious and priestly vocations and mission work be activated and strengthened.
89. That an association which will support priestly and religious vocations be established.
90. That vocation campaign to the youth on priestly and religious life be continued and extended in all places.
91. That support groups and programs be instituted in the communities, which will answer and address the needs of seminarians and candidates for the religious life.
92. That priests, sisters and aspirants to religious and priestly life be witnesses and models of love and simplicity.
93. That generous people be encouraged to support the financial and material needs of seminarians and aspirants to religious life.
FOR THE COMMISION ON ECUMENISM AND INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE
94. That respect and understanding become the governing principle towards believers of other religions and religious denominations.
95. That the celebration of Christian Unity Octave be fully enhanced.
FOR THE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
96. That scholarship in Catholic Schools be expanded and strengthened.
97. That the Diocese and all Catholic believers show great support to Catholic Education and extend financial support to the teachers.
98. That the Catholic Schools be partners of the Diocese and the parishes in implementing Diocesan programs especially in values, character, and intellectual formation of the students and their parents.
99. That administrators of Catholic Schools give fair treatment and privileges to the students, staff, and members of the community.
100. That catechetical instructions be continued and given maximum support in the public schools.
101. That Faculty Development Program be strongly encouraged for quality education.
FOR THE RELIGIOUS SISTERS
102. That the ARM (Association of Religious Sisters in Marinduque) cooperate in the programs of the Diocese that they may be signs of the love of God and the Local Church.
103. That a special apostolate for the poor become part of their role apostolate in the Diocese (especially the disabled, the sick, and the prisoners).
DECREES ON PEACE
FOR THE DIOCESE
104. That the priests, religious, lay leaders, and the Diocesan Commissions be united to support programs and projects that would enlighten, build, move, and develop the community to work toward the attainment of peace, rooted in truth founded in justice, sustained by love, and accomplished in freedom.
105. That the Bishop, priests, religious, the Parish Pastoral Councils and all Church organizations actively participate in expressing their opposition against anomalous structures, abuse of wealth and authority, through “active non-violence”.
106. That an Arbitration Council be organized to attend to conflicts and grievances between priests, lay leaders and Diocesan organizations, and that the Council be an effective channel and purveyor of peace.
107. That priests and lay leaders sector be encouraged to continuously conduct studies on the present condition of the society.
108. That there be effective policies in the implementation of the programs of the Diocese.
109. That coordination be established between the Diocese/parish and the local government on the religious activities, (e.g. prohibition of social dance activities on the night before the Feast Day.
FOR THE PARISH
110. That the priests, members of the Parish Pastoral Councils, Barangay Pastoral Councils, religious organizations and Charismatic Movements prioritize the organization, sustainability of the BPK for the complete attainment of peace.
111. That Council of Parish Counselors be organized to respond to the spiritual and moral needs of the faithful.
112. That members BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano) be given opportunities to participate in the decision-making and in developing programs for the parish.
113. That the established coordination between the Local Government and the Church continue to value and sustain peace and order in the community.
114. That there be a continuous program for environmental protection and preservation of natural resources.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON LITURGY
115. That the priests and ministers be witnesses and make the faithful realize that the celebration of the sacraments especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation are real experiences of healing and peace.
116. That the good traditions and practices like praying together the Angelus, Holy Rosary, and Visit to the Blessed Sacrament be preserved and intensified.
117. That Bible Sharing be promoted and encouraged fully in all Catholic households in order to attain peace.
118. That emphasis be given to the religious aspect in the following traditions (a) Moriones, (b) Santacruzan, (c) Pabasa, (d) Cenaculo, (e) Flores de Mayo.
119. That Prayer Rally for Peace be continued by involving those in the government, military, Catholics, and the non-Catholics.
FOR THE FORMATION COMMISSION
120. That emphasis be given in the program for the formation of the community, the important Social Teachings of the Church, especially the documents on peace and “active non-violence” as means to attain order and peace.
121. That a firm stand be made and wide campaign be established against abuse of alcohol and liquor and other addicting vices that usually result to misunderstanding and violence.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON SERVICE
122. That the established and soon-to-be-established BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano) be the place and model in supporting human rights and respecting the dignity of men, they being the image of God and the brothers of Christ.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FAMILY AND LIFE
123. That there be an intensified and sustained respect and care for the elders and the women; also the spirit of cooperation, bayanihan and charity.
124. That the youth be properly educated regarding social issues in order that they may live the life of authentic peace according to the teachings of the Church.
125. That the formation program for the parents be intensified that they may become the source of peace in the family.
126. That a program for families of Overseas Contract Workers (OCWs) be developed to assist them in their moral and spiritual needs.
127. That a program for the prisoners and their families be developed to assist them in their moral and spiritual needs.
128. That assistance be given to the families of victims of pollution and crimes that they may attain/ enjoy peace of mind.
129. That the families involve themselves enthusiastically in the apostolate of the local Church towards the attainment of peace.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH
130. That the Commission develop a systematic and effective program which would enhance brotherhood towards peace.
131. That there be a formation among the youth to develop them to better understanding of freedom of expressing oneself, responsible decisions and choice.
FOR ECUMENISM
132. That a clear and concrete program be developed for better relationships among non-Christians and non-Catholic brethren.
133. That support be given to ecumenical programs and inter-religious dialogue for a better understanding and cooperation to achieve peace.
DECREES ON CHURCH OF THE POOR
FOR THE DIOCESE (Bishop, Priests, and Lay Leaders)
134. That the Bishop, priests, religious sisters, lay leaders and church workers, through the spirit of humility and fidelity, set examples to live the spirit of evangelical poverty and preferential love for the poor.
135. That the Parish and Barangay Pastoral Councils initiate in prioritizing the program of establishing, strengthening, and expanding the BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano) in living the spirit of the Church of the Poor.
136. That there be a clear and extensive (large-scale) pro-poor program and implement it in order to uplift their condition.
137. That the priests should be just, fair and free from anyone’s influence (e.g. personal gratitude) in the implementation of laws and policies relative to the celebration (administration) of the Sacraments.
138. That the priests relate their homily in the actual life-situation and in consonance with the level of understanding of the people especially the poor.
139. That the priests, lay leaders, Church workers and the entire community of the faithful deepen their understanding about the real meaning of the Church of the Poor and live (practice) its true spirit.
140. That the BPK be formed according to the spirit of “cooperativism” under the light of the Gospel to achieve a democratic, just, progressive and peaceful living.
141. That the Diocese and all the parishes should allot sufficient fund intended for the formation of the BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano) to attain a total human development.
142. That the Parish Self-Sufficiency Program in the whole Diocese be implemented so that the entire community of the faithful may be encouraged to share according to their means and help the needs of the Church which will eventually lead to the abolition of the Arancel system.
143. That assurance be given to the poor of their involvement in making programs and projects intended for their own benefits.
144. That a Foundation be established which will be responsible for fund raising and for receiving donations intended for the poor.
FOR THE PARISH
145. That there be an updating and re-education about the meaning and vision-mission of the BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano).
FOR THE COMMISSION ON FORMATION
146. That primary importance be given to the poor in the works of Evangelization.
147. That the Commission on Formation lead the integral faith formation program in the parishes, particularly in the BPK (Batayang Pamayanang Kristiyano).
148. That the capacity (ability) and character of the poor be developed and intensified so that they may become effective co-workers in the task of Evangelization.
149. That the Commission on Formation give emphasis especially to the poor, the value of receiving the sacraments (Baptism, Marriage, etc.) instead of indulging in expensive or extravagant ways of celebrating them that often hinders their reception..
150. That there be a program that will open the minds (consciousness) of the poor regarding the evil effects of vices.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON WORSHIP
151. That there be a profound study on the various symbols in the Church’s celebration which are detrimental to the very vision and ideals of the Church of the Poor.
152. That everybody be served wholeheartedly and equally without discrimination even those who cannot afford to give the required payment for Arancel.
153. That as a matter of policy, lay ministers should be chosen from the BPK.
154. That the prayer life of the Community of the faithful be intensified.
155. That firm and extensive campaign against extravagant fiesta celebrations be implemented in the parishes and that proper coordination be made to other people regarding simple and meaningful celebrations.
COMMISSION ON SERVICE
156. That the commission uphold the welfare of the poor: (a) socially poor, (b) materially poor, (c) spiritually poor (d) physically poor, and help them in a concrete way.
FOR THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH APOSTOLATE
157. That the youth be educated on the real meaning and value of the spirit of poverty.
158. That the active involvement of the youth in building the Church of the Poor be intensified.
FOR THE RELIGIOUS WOMEN
159. That the different religious congregations truly practice the vow of poverty and share their resources with each other, and that they actively participate in the life and mission of the Diocese and the parish.
