THE CATHOLIC Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is urging the youth to renew and strengthen their faith during Pope Francis’ visit to the Pontifical University of Santo Tomas on Jan. 18, 2015.
Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian, chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Youth (CBCP-ECY), called on young Filipinos to reflect on the real essence of the Pope’s visit, which is to live and share God’s “mercy and compassion.”
“In spite of the excitement over his visit, may we remind the youth that this is not a social gathering, this is not a rock-and-roll gathering,” Jaucian told the Varsitarian. “His visit is more of a pastoral visit. He comes to bring Jesus closer to us.”
Pope Francis’ visit to the country is also the best time to welcome back those who have deviated from the Catholic faith, especially young people, he added.
“I already had a personal encounter with [the Pope] during the Asian Youth Day in Korea and I know he loves the youth. He really does not make you feel he’s authority,” Jaucian said.
Jaucian earlier clarified that the youth encounter in UST would not only be for Thomasians, but for the whole Church, especially the Catholic youth.
Pope Francis will meet the Filipino youth at the University’s parade grounds at 10:30 in the morning on Jan. 18, 2015. The CBCP-ECY and the Manila Archdiocesan Youth Commission will lead “animation activities” such as songs and prayers as early as 6:00 a.m.
Before the youth encounter, UST will host a dialogue between Pope Francis and leaders of different religions at 9:45 a.m. A. M. S. Cantillana
