CBCP official outlines key role of vicars in strengthening Church relations

Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr. said vicars for consecrated life must listen well, encourage dialogue, and stay attentive to the needs of religious communities. Speaking at the Conference on Mutual Relations at the Manresa Retreat House in Quezon City on Oct. 21, the Bishop of Cubao described these vicars as essential collaborators who help bishops support religious institutes and other forms of consecrated life.

Ayuban, who chairs the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines Commission on Mutual Relations Between Bishops and Consecrated Persons, identified three primary duties for vicars: overseeing the lives of consecrated persons and their institutes, coordinating their pastoral and apostolic work, and managing matters involving religious priests.

According to Ayuban, canon law requires vicars to meet specific standards regarding age, education, experience, and sound judgment, noting that expertise in theology or canon law is important. While women religious and religious brothers may assist in this role, the office is reserved for priests.