Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Manila (Fides Service) - Some 3,000 priests from all over the Philippines are expected to attend a National Congress of the Clergy in Manila on the theme “A new clergy, a new Church, a new nation” taking as their inspiration “They will look upon the one whom they have pierced” (Jn 19,37).
The Conference is organised by the Commission for the Clergy of the Bishops’ Conference led by Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales, Archbishop of Manila, with the help of many lay Catholics with regard to organisation and logistics. At least 1,500 families in the diocese of Manila, and surrounding areas Paranaque, Pasig, Cubao and Novaliches will provide accommodation for the priests. The Conference will include study, formation, prayer and discussion.
A special prayer was composed to prepare for the Congress. Here is part of it: “God our Father, we pray for our priests in a special way. We ask you to bless this historic gathering of your priests, where they will ponder and reflect on the life and challenges of this sacred ministry to which you have called them. May your spirit of wisdom empower your priest to proclaim the Good news of Salvation to all with zeal and dedication and to celebrate your Holy Mysteries with love and devotion and so together with the, we may become a people offering you a spiritual sacrifice of love and faithful service to one another”.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 18/6/2004 lines 25 words 254)
