Pope’s visit to inspire more vocations

MANILA, August 31, 2014—Inspired by the success of the recently concluded Asian Youth Day, which left the Church in South Korea energized, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on Culture (CBCP-ECC) expresses confidence Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to the country in 2015 will have as much positive effect on the millions of Filipino faithful eager to welcome him, especially in the area of inspiring vocations.

“Being the Vicar of Christ, the Holy Father’s visit is going to be a grace-filled moment for us. Filipinos must take it as an opportunity to have a deeper faith and hope in God. I also look forward to seeing a renewed interest in religious vocations,” CBCP-ECC Executive Secretary Sr. Mary Anthony E. Basa, PDDM said in an interview over Radyo Veritas.

Besides strengthening the faith of millions of Christians, she is convinced the Holy Father’s mere presence will give rise to a wave of vocations, inspiring many Filipinos to consider the religious life.

Basa also predicts Catholic Filipinos, particularly the youth, will benefit greatly from the papal visit allowing them to deepen their relationship with God.

Basa reminds the faithful that Pope Francis’ visit is primarily about hope, charity and forgiveness, mercy and compassion offered to the millions of people experiencing social injustice, especially survivors of typhoon “Yolanda” and similar calamities.

She encourages Filipinos to prepare themselves spiritually for the apostolic visit, which according to her is an event that can strengthen the bonds of the Filipino family as well. (Raymond A. Sebastián)