The Canon Law Society of the Philippines (CLSP) is set to hold the 31st National Convention from February 24 to 27, 2025, in Cubao, Quezon City.
This annual gathering serves as an avenue for academic and spiritual formation while fostering fellowship among canon lawyers, scholars, and church leaders.
With the theme "The Church and The State: Distinct but not Separate," the convention aims to delve into the intricate relationship between religious and civil institutions.
It seeks to clarify misconceptions while highlighting areas where collaboration remains possible for the common good.
The event will feature lectures and discussions led by renowned Canon Law professors and legal experts from different parts of the world.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and Bishop of the Diocese of Kalookan, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming discussions.
He emphasized the importance of understanding the distinct roles of the Church and the State, noting that while they are separate institutions, they are not necessarily disconnected.
"There are many common endeavors where church and government can work together... We are not separate; we are distinct institutions. In modern institutions all over the world, there is a distinction of rules of various institutions, and that is a sound and healthy concept,” he stated, inviting all CLSP members to participate in the event.
Similarly, Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula of the Archdiocese of Manila encouraged attendance, underscoring the theme’s relevance in the current synodal journey of the Church.
"The theme of Church and State relations gains special relevance as we endeavor to walk together the synodal path unfolding before us," he said. "Through dialogue and sharing experiences, may we open new doors and opportunities for collaboration and cooperation for the good of the church and our beloved country."
Aside from academic discussions, the convention will include daily Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours, ensuring spiritual enrichment for participants.
Various cultural and social activities are also planned, with key celebrations taking place in strategic locations such as New York, Broadway, and San Francisco del Monte, all within the Diocese of Cubao.
As part of its job to protect Canon Law and how it is used in the Church, the CLSP hopes that this convention will give them useful information and help them learn more about how faith and government can live together peacefully.
The CLSP invites all its members to take part in this significant gathering and contribute to the ongoing discourse on Church-State relations.
Founded in 1993, the CLSP is a national association of all bishops, priests, and laypersons either teaching canon law or doing pastoral ministry in the canonical tribunals of dioceses.
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