Talibon bishop urges action on synod proposals

Bishop Patrick Daniel Parcon of Talibon has called on priests and laypeople to implement the recommendations from the diocese's first diocesan synod. During his homily at the closing Mass on Oct. 23, Parcon stated that the synod's proposals must result in practical changes in Church life rather than remaining as written documents.

The bishop emphasized that the diocese must become more inclusive and responsive to the needs of the people. He told more than 220 delegates that the spirit of the synod requires that no one be excluded from pastoral care.

As a specific measure, the diocese is abolishing its arancel system, which required fixed fees for receiving the sacraments. Parcon told Radyo Veritas that this decision aims to remove financial barriers that prevent poor Catholics from accessing sacramental life.