Archbishop: You confirm my faith

The Archbishop of Davao Most Rev. Romulo Valles told the parishioners of St. John the Baptist in Lasang here that it was the Catholic faithful of the Archdiocese that confirm his faith.

“My job as your Archbishop, along with the priests, as is always to confirm, encourage, and strengthen your faith. However, for the many times, it was you who confirmed and strengthened our faith,” he said before his final blessing during the parochial fiesta of the said parish last June 24.

Abp. Valles said that the number of parishioners present that day reaffirmed his faith.

“Just imagine how a bishop would think of his faith if there are only less parishioners here. But, also imagine how it would strengthen my faith that you are here joining me today even if I have nothing to give you,” he said. “The fact that I can see all of you here today give me strength in my faith. Therefore, I would say it was really you who confirmed my faith. Happy fiesta and Viva San Juan!”

He also recalled that in the same date in 1997, 22 years ago, is the date when it was publicly announced that he will become a bishop.

“I was ordained August 6, but the announcement of the Pope in Rome was made on this day years ago. This is why, my motto is the words of John the Baptist saying Illum oportet crescere, which means He must become greater, and must be acclaimed, I must become less,” he said.

“Hence, my brothers and sisters, your prayers would help me serve you, despite my sins and frailties. Jesus should be glorified, he must be praised and preached,” he added.