Pope Francis called on Philippine bishops to continue efforts in giving concrete witness to “evangelical charity” amid the prevailing coronavirus pandemic.
In his message for the bishops’ plenary assembly, the pope expressed hope that the meeting will result in “more creative expressions” of pastoral charity.
He said the Church in the Philippines should be “recognized as ‘a home with open doors,’ offering hope and strength to the suffering and to all who seek a more humane and dignified life.”
Pope Francis expressed his support and blessings to the Filipino bishops as they discuss issues that affect the Church and the country.
The pope’s message was read to the assembly by Archbishop Charles John Brown, apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, on Tuesday, January 26.
The bishops’ 121st plenary assembly, which is attended by more than 80 bishops from across the country, is taking place online this week.
Among the items in the agenda of the meeting are reports from nine regional representatives of the conference’s Permanent Council on the pandemic and the responses and plans of action of the churches.
The bishops will also discuss updates on the plans for this year’s quincentennial celebration of the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines.
