Follow Pope Francis’ example - Cardinal Advincula

Metro Manila, Philippines - Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula has called on Filipinos to follow the example of the late Pope Francis and learn from his teachings.

“Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the gift of his person, a precious gift of God to the church and to the world, and in a very special way to us as a Filipino people,” Advincula said in his homily on Tuesday, April 22 at the Manila Cathedral.

The Argentinian pontiff was the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church. He died this week after more than a decade at the helm of the Vatican. He was 88.

Advincula reflected on the Pope’s legacy to Filipinos, recalling his historic 2015 visit where he comforted survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban City and presided over a Mass in Luneta attended by millions.

“Under the rain in Tacloban, standing with the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda, Pope Francis showed us what it means to suffer with others and find hope in the midst of pain,” he said.

He added, “In Luneta, as he celebrated the Holy Eucharist with millions, he embraced our joy, our faith, and our longing for a Church that walks with its people.”

Advincula described Francis as a shepherd who remained close to the poor and the forgotten, and who affirmed his love for Filipinos both in words and action.

He noticed that the pope appointed Filipino cardinals and bishops, including himself in 2020. He also joined the country in celebrating the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines.

Advincula ended his message with a prayer: “Let us honor his memory by learning from his teachings and following his example of Christian life.”