Giving aid to quake victims a priority, not rebuilding churches - CBCP

CBCP president Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma said the priority of the Catholic Church is to address the immediate needs of the quake victims who have been rendered homeless by the 7.2-magnitude tremor last Oct. 15.

 

The archbishop also called on victims not to lose faith in their Church leaders who are willing to give help both in the form of relief and spiritual guidance in such trying times.

 

"Our interest now is not yet churches but people because it will take time. Huwag tayong mangamba na kahit nangyayari ito. We still continue the journey or even from the rubble, something good will come out," Palma told Church-run Radyo Veritas.  

 

The prelate also reminded the faithful to count their blessings amid the calamities, particularly the celebration for the 100th year canonization of the Saint Pedro Calungsod last Oct. 21.

 

"We should always look back with gratitude sa maraming mga blessings na bahagi ng ating journey. We should mention ang beautiful events na mayroon tayo na huwag nating kalimutan. In moments of difficulties, this is very inspiring and memorable and fruitful memory if the past become the sources of strength. at yun ang challenge ng teenage saints na kahit bata pa ay he is willing to sacrfice," the archbishop said. 

 

Palma also appealed to the public to continuously give donations to the victims and pray for their safety, as some remote villages in Bohol have yet to get aid from concerned government agencies and other private groups lending a hand in the wake of the catastrophy.

 

"Tumulong tayo regardless of agencies. Kung may pagdududa, tiyakin na makakarating ang tulong. Tumulong tayo at huwag lagyan ng kulay ang ating pagtulong," he added.