The rector of the Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome called on Filipino Catholics to to enhance their compassion for others
Father Gregory Ramon Gaston said care for others is at the heart of the work of Caritas Internationalis, the leading charitable organization of the Catholic Church.
“Everything we do, all the help we provide, is ultimately directed towards the spiritual aspect,” said the priest over Radio Veritas 846.
“If we engage in outreach programs or apostolates, all of these bring us closer to the Lord,” he said, adding that it is in this way that “we can share the Lord with our fellowmen.”
He said, however, that the Church cannot be likened to a non-governmental organization because every action it takes is accompanied by love and the growth of the Holy Spirit.
Early this month, representatives from the Caritas network of 167 countries gathered in Rome for the 22nd General Assembly.
Father Gaston said that although Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Caritas Internationalis president emeritus, is no longer the head of the organization Pope Francis has tasked him with coordinating with various Caritas organizations in dioceses worldwide.
Archbishop Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo has been elected as the president of the Vatican’s charity arm, becoming the second Asian to hold the position following Cardinal Tagle.
Father Gaston urged the faithful to continue praying for Pope Francis, Cardinal Tagle, and the new leadership of Caritas Internationalis as they carry out their missions in the Church.
