Themes of the Diocesan Synod

The two disciples were on the Road to Emmaus. As they journeyed together, they were engulfed by pain because of the death of the Lord Jesus. But all moments of grief are also occasions of grace: the Risen Lord encountered them in their vulnerability, loss of meaning, and sense of direction. (Luke 24: 15-17)

It is hoped that in this year, the Diocese of Imus will experience a profound encounter with the Lord in the spirit of prayer. Indeed, all previous undertakings and pastoral plans can only have profound significance when seen in the light of a constant encounter with the Risen Lord.

The two disciples invited the Lord Jesus to dine with them after a long journey, and they recognized Him when He broke bread with them. Then, he disappeared. This was a moment of awakening: the Risen Lord is indeed the Emmanuel, the God-Who-is with- Us!

Soon enough, their eyes were opened and their hearts were burning (Lk. 24: 31-32) as they recalled how He opened the Scriptures to them in their journey. In this second year, it is hoped that our eyes of faith be opened and the fire of love (alab) be enkindled and renewed through the Sacred Scriptures and the Sacrament of the Eucharist.

After being renewed through their encounter with the Risen Christ, the two disciples returned at once to Jerusalem and told the 11 apostles about their encounter: “It is true! … the Lord has Risen…” (Lk. 24: 34) This awakening through a profound encounter with the “Light” (Jn. 8:12), who is the Risen Christ, became a powerful wellspring for pastoral charity and mission.

Indeed, “Christ is the Light of all nations…” and the mission of the Church is “to bring the light of Christ to all men…” (Lumen Gentium 1, 1) It is hoped that in this third year, the Diocese of Imus will be faithful to its mission and vision, which are gifts from the Risen Lord, and continue to respond to the signs of the times. (Gaudium et Spes, 4)