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We, bishops of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we gather in collegial study and consultation, affirm the basic ecclesial character of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente as being synodical in governance and episcopal in leadership.
This synodically governed, episcopally led ecclesial polity is rooted in the prominence of the leadership exercised by the bishops in relation to the corporate authority emanating from and exercised by the people of God as a faith community. This embodies the balance between the exercise of authority and responsibility in pursuit of God’s continuing mission entrusted to the Church resulting in a distinct ecclesial polity.
This principle of episcopal leadership and synodical governance in the Iglesia Filipina Independiente is expressed both in the practice of corporate authority through the General Assembly presided by the Obispo Maximo, and in the Diocesan Convention presided by the Diocesan Bishop.
The General Assembly operates as the synod through which the ordained and non-ordained share the responsibility of witnessing to the apostolic faith by virtue of their common baptism. It serves as the governing body of the Church in fulfilling the mission entrusted by God, in safeguarding the unity and continuity of the apostolic faith, and in guiding the faithful in the fulfillment of their baptismal covenant. It is thus the final authority in all matters affecting the life, order and discipline of the Church.
On the local level, this principle of episcopal leadership and synodical governance manifests itself in the life and work of the dioceses where the bishops gather priests and lay people in Diocesan Conventions as the governing body of the local churches.
Our affirmation of the synodically governed, episcopally led ecclesial polity of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, manifested in both the General Assembly and the Diocesan Conventions, brings to light the vital ministry of bishops in leading and in pursuing her mission, and at the same time brings the common work of the clergy and laity in the harmonious governance of the Church through the synod.
Supreme Council of Bishops City of Manila 6th November 2004 |
The Harmony of Authority and Responsibility in the Church |