Several parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila have expressed their gratitude to Bishop Broderick Pabilllo who has served as apostolic administrator of the archdiocese for more than a year.
“As we prepare for the ordination of our new archbishop, we thank God for the grace of our apostolic administrator,” read a post on the social media account of the Manila Cathedral.
“We feel your care as a true bishop: a prophet who teaches and speaks for the people, a priest who leads us in prayer, and a shepherd who serves especially the poor and needy,” added the message.
The post described Bishop Pabillo, a vocal social justice advocate, as “a true blessing to our people.”
In another post, the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, popularly known as the Quiapo Church, thanked the bishop for his “sincere service to the people” and for showing “the face of Jesus of Nazareth.”
“May the Lord God bless you, Dear Bishop Broderick Pabillo,” read the statement.
“Your sincere service to the People of the Archdiocese of Manila is invaluable. You showed us the face of Jesus of Nazareth and made us feel his love as High Priest, Prophet, and Servant,” it added.
The San Fernando de Dilao Parish noted that events in the past year “have been very challenging to all of us.”
“Thank you for being our shepherd and guide in the archdiocese as our apostolic administrator. We truly appreciate what you have done through this difficult time,” read the parish statement.
Last week, Bishop Pabillo also expressed thanks to the faithful in the archdiocese, especially the priests and lay leaders, for their collaboration and support during the 16 months that he served as apostolic administrator in the absence of an archbishop.
“Through prayer and hard work, we were able to carry out the Lord’s mission, especially during this challenging time of the [COVID-19] pandemic,” he said in a statement.
“With the coming of our new archbishop, let us pledge to him our filial obedience and love,” said the prelate.
Cardinal Jose F. Advincula will be formally installed as the 33rd archbishop of Manila on June 24 at the Manila Cathedral.
Bishop Pabillo will remain as auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese.
