Key Concepts from CICM Teachings and Contributions

Background of CICM Church Teaching

  • Source: Derived from the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit by Pope Francis (2019)
  • Theme: The Gospel is universal, meant for everyone without borders.
  • Call to Action:
    • Christians are encouraged to share the Gospel joyfully in all areas of life.
    • Fearless engagement in various community settings (schools, workplaces, etc.).

The CICM Vocation Principle

  • Core Idea: Good missionaries work where their presence is most needed.
  • Primary Task: To vocalize the Gospel in people's life experiences, which is essential to missionary work.

Historical Mission in the Philippines

  • Early 20th Century Challenge: Severe shortage of priests due to political and religious turmoil.

  • CICM Responds: Tasked with caring for Diocese of Nueva Segovia, sending their first group of missionaries to the Philippines in 1907.

    • Key Figures:
    • Jules Sepulchre, Albert Dereume, and others.

  • Mission Structure:

    • Missionaries faced geographical challenges while establishing churches and schools.
    • Initial assignments included the regions of Ilocos and Benguet.

CICM Establishment and Expansion

  • 1909: Establishment of the CICM Philippine Province with Baguio as the base ("Home Sweet Home").
  • War Impact: World War II resulted in losses, imprisonment, and destruction of facilities.
  • Post-War Recovery: Efforts to recover and expand communities began, leading to the relocation of the Provincialate in Quezon City by 1954.

Contributions of CICM Missionaries

Church Builders
  • Missionary Efforts: Established numerous parishes and schools in Northern Luzon.
  • Notable Figures:
    • Fr. Florimond Carlu, recognized for constructing churches including Baguio Cathedral.
Educators and School Builders
  • Significant Role of Schools: Schools were established as conduits for evangelization and education.
  • Key Contributions:
    • Fr. Seraphin Devesse founded first Catholic mission school leading to Saint Louis University.
    • Trade and vocational schools introduced for skill development.
Catechists
  • Importance of Catechesis: Teaching God's word was a mission priority since the arrival of missionaries.
  • Influential Figures:
    • Fr. Constant Jurgens created influential catechetical works and was later appointed bishop.
Service Providers
  • Mission Focus: The CICM aims to transform society through social justice and development.
  • Projects Initiated:
    • Youth rehabilitation and training centers.
    • Orphanages and housing projects.
    • Healthcare initiatives and livelihood development.

Legacy of the CICM

  • Current Presence: Various projects continue to serve the community, providing a foundation for spiritual and economic growth.
  • Call to Action:
    • As members of the CICM spirit, every individual should consider themselves a co-missionary in their unique capacity.

Suggested Further Reading

  • Module 3 Church Teaching document by Dr. Wilfried Vanhoutte.
  • Videos: A Journey of Faith & The CICM Legacy in the Philippines for a deeper understanding of their societal contributions.