Palma resting well after bladder surgery

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma is already recovering after the operation on his gall bladder. In order to recover faster, the Archbishop still has to rest more, said Papal Chaplain Rt. Rev. Monsignor Ildebrando Leyson.

 Although he is not bedridden, Leyson said Palma’s activities are limited to reading official Church documents in his office. He is also discouraged from any travel at this time to prevent stress to his gall bladder.

 Palma underwent surgery to remove gall bladder stones last Apr. 3. 

 Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing preparations, the Office of the Archbishop of Cebu is preparing to “spiritually prepare” the people for the canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod.

 According to Leyson, postulator of the said event, the Archdiocese of Cebu has started to disseminate information to the people about Blessed Calungsod and his catechisms as part of their plans.

 “We are strengthening the spiritual preparation of the people,” Leyson said, adding that it is also one of the best ways to receive Blessed Calungsod once he becomes a saint.

 Calungsod, a young Visayan catechist who became a martyr for his faith in the 17th century, was beatified in 2000. He is set to be canonized on Oct. 21, 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI himself in the Vatican.

Members of the Archdiocese of Cebu will meet on April 18 to finalize the preparations for the said event. (FREEMAN)