Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila expressed solidarity with the victims of tropical storm Megi in the central Philippines during the celebration of Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday.
In his homily at the Manila Cathedral, the cardinal asked the faithful to join him in praying for the victims of the storm. “Let us also remember them in our prayers,” said Cardinal Advincula.
The death toll from landslides and flooding in the Philippines triggered by tropical storm Megi hit 115 on Thursday, official figures showed, as more bodies were found in mud-caked villages.
Most the deaths were in the central province of Leyte where a series of landslides devastated communities.
The Chrism Mass is a Holy Week tradition when holy oils are blessed and consecrated while priests from across the diocese stand united with the bishop.
During the liturgy, the Manila clergy also renewed their commitment to priestly service.
The cardinal thanked the Manila clergy for their sacrifices during the pandemic.
“I personally thank you for exercising discernment, creativity, and courage in the ministry amid the drastic changes in the world today,” said Cardinal Advincula.
“I particularly appreciate the sacrifice that you had to make during the pandemic,” he said.
“You have dared for newness for the sake of faithfulness to the mission…God is blessing your labors and He makes them bear fruits in our people,” said the cardinal.
