The archbishop of Cagayan de Oro in the southern Philippines warned the faithful against a group calling itself the “Order of Apostolican Missionaries” whose members are reportedly going around soliciting money.
Archbishop Jose Cabantan said his office got hold of a solicitation letter from the group, prompting him to notify the faithful in his jurisdiction.
“It has come to my attention recently that a group called Order of Apostolican Missionaries (OAM) alleged to have a Mission House in Malaybalay City and a Formation House in Cagayan de Oro is roaming around the city unscrupulously soliciting funds or donations for evangelization works and outreach programs of their ‘religious community,’” read the bishop’s letter to parishes.
The archbishop said his office is still investigating if there were parishioners who have given money to the group. “We are not sure if people have donated, but it’s possible some have already did,” he said.
The prelate said members of the group are reportedly knocking on doors to ask for money.
He said the group is not on the official list of religious congregations of the Roman Catholic Church in the country.
“Upon verification with our Catholic Directory of the Philippines and the Chancery Office of Malaybalay, such group does not exist. It may have carried the name ‘Catholic’ but it is not in any way connected with us,” said Archbishop Cabantan.
The archbishop cautioned the faithful “to please exercise extra vigilance against this bogus group” and report similar incidents to the chancery.
The solicitation letter of the group asks for “a favor from you to please give assistance to the mission which is evangelization.”
“Our outreach program provide evangelism through Gospel Concert which will be held in different cities and municipalities in Mindanao Region. We are also conducting seminars and sharing the divine word of God,” it said.
“We are not just and organization of robust a deals (sic), but of substantial deeds and true action,” it added.
City police spokesman Maj. Evan Viñas said authorities are yet to receive complaints from residents regarding the reported solicitation activities.
