BACOLOD City, Philippines – A 35-meter mural of Pope Francis was created on the perimeter fence of the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R) in this city as a tribute to him.
The mural features the Pope, taking a selfie and driving a pedicab, with the youth, said UNO-R property administrator Bro. Jaazeal Jakosalem.
Completed in three days, the mural, made of acrylic paint, is a collective initiative of the Dibuhista nga Naghiliugyon sa Negros (Dihon) artists along with Bacolod students, Jakosalem said.
“We involved the participation of the students and young people to help us create the beautiful mural,” he added.
He said that even if the pope would not be visiting Bacolod, they could still feature his messages, which always have an impact on the lives of the ordinary people, especially the young.
The university’s Heart Store, for instance, is selling Pope Francis collectibles, such as statement shirts.
The shirts, each costing P190, would be available even after the papal visit.
As well, a life-size standee of Pope Francis is displayed at the entrance of the San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod.
Fr. Felix Pasquin, rector of the San Sebastian Cathedral, urged the Catholic faithful to pray that the visit of the Pope on Jan. 15 to 19 would be fruitful for the Philippines and its people.
“We are very fortunate that the pope has chosen to visit our country among the many countries in the world,” Pasquin said.
He said the papal visit is expected to strengthen the Christian faith and nurture the people’s hope for a better life.
He also said those who have more in life should make a little sacrifice and be more generous in dealing with the poor.
The Diocese of Bacolod, led by Bishop Vicente Navarra, would send delegates to Manila for the visit of Pope Francis.
Pasquin said they are sending 195 delegates, composed of 30 priests, 105 lay persons and 60 youth representatives.
He said that 10 of the priests from the diocese would be concelebrating a mass with the pope at the Manila Cathedral on Jan. 16, while the other 20 priests would be concelebrating the mass at the Luneta Park on Jan. 18.
Most of the delegates were endorsed or recommended by their parish priests, and an orientation and briefing were conducted for those joining the delegation.