Silang, Cavite — March 28, 2026. Around 170 lay formators from various parishes of the Diocese of Imus gathered at the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR) for the first Lay Formation Recollection. The event aimed to deepen the spirituality of lay leaders as they prepared for Holy Week, while also highlighting the importance of self-care in ministry and daily life.

The recollection was facilitated by Dr. Imelda Virginia G. Villar, a Filipino psychologist, educator, author, and former president of the Psychological Association of the Philippines. In her talk, Dr. Villar emphasized the need to understand stress and its effects on the body, mood, and behavior. She shared practical ways to minimize burnout and encouraged participants to balance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. “Take time to rest. Do not feel guilty if you are resting, because you need it for your mental health as well—for you to be able to properly help others. We cannot truly care for others if we do not first learn how to care for ourselves,” she reminded the group.

Following the session, a Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Reverend Reynaldo G. Evangelista, D.D., Bishop of Imus. After lunch, participants joined small listening circles to reflect on the lessons of self-care in the light of the Church’s call to synodality.

This first Lay Formation Recollection marks a significant step in nurturing both the spiritual and personal well-being of lay formators, ensuring they remain strong companions in the mission of the Church.