New head of ecclesial body aims to promote ecology through community engagement
The new head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Episcopal Commission on Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) shared his plans for mobilizing Filipinos for environmental action.

“By embracing an ecological perspective, I believe it can inspire sustainable practices promoting stewardship of the environment and fostering a culture of integral ecology,” Bishop Jose Rapadas of Iligan said in a video message on Wednesday, Feb. 21.
The bishop recognized the potential to involve ordinary people, especially the poor in the process of “social transformation.”
He explained that his position in BECs will serve as a platform for amplifying the “voices to be heard” of the marginalized and empowering them to actively engage in the Church's mission.
“I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the BECs in fostering holistic growth and human development in the communities. So I am a believer of BECs,” he added.
Bishop Rapadas stressed that the “participatory” approach will allow both clergy and laity to be involved in the Church's synodal journey.
Moreover, he said he looks forward to working closely with the commission, dioceses, parishes, and BEC coordinators to turn his vision into a reality within the Church.
The CBCP elected Rapadas as their point person for promoting BECs in the country.
He was appointed on Jan. 24, following Pagadian Bishop Ronald Lunas who died last Jan. 2.
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https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/25/cbcp-elects-iligan-bishop-as-new-head-of-ecclesial-body-1