Humbling himself, Pope writes archbishop: “Forgive my impatience”

PALO, LEYTE, Philippines — Stripping himself of the air of superiority being the head of state of Vatican City and leader of the 1.8-billion strong Catholic Church, Pope Francis wrote a letter to Palo Archbishop John Du asking "forgiveness for any impatience on (my part) at that time (visit in Leyte).

In a letter sent by the Vatican thru the Apostolic Nunciature and received at the Archbishop's Palace yesterday, Pope Francis expressed deep sadness that "the weather warning forced us to anticipate our departure by four hours, (which) prevented a more relaxed visit with your people and in the Cathedral later that afternoon."

The Pontiff also asked the archbishop, and those entrusted in the latter's care, to pray for him. This request for prayer for him has been constantly heard from Pope Francis in his visit in the Philippines, including Palo town and Tacloban City.

Notwithstanding his sadness, the Holy Father conveyed his gratitude to the Archbishop Du for the pastoral example of strength and generosity in the service of the Church in Palo. He likewise expressed his profound gratitude for Du's hospitality in the archdiocese.

Pope Francis acknowledged the "witness of faith and endurance" that the people of the Archdiocese of Palo showed him "in the midst of their trials."

This, the pope stated, he will never forget, praying that the Lord will never permit him to. He assured Du to keep the people of the Archdiocese of Palo in his prayers.

It could be recalled that over 150,000 pilgrims flocked the airport apron in Tacloban City for the open air Mass celebrated by the Supreme Pontiff last January 17 in spite of signal number 2 of typhoon Amang hoisted over Leyte.

This number was on top of the hundred thousands more individuals, young and old, who lined the streets for his motorcade from the airport to the Archbishop's Palace in Palo and back, not minding the perils they face with the strong winds and heavy rains at the time.

Father Chris Militante, information officer of the Archdiocese of Palo, said Archbishop Du was yet to send his reply to the Holy Father, but without mentioning the gist of such reply.

Although it has been two weeks since the papal visit, "the Francis effect is still strongly felt," according to Militante.

"We can keep the closeness of God felt continuously by imitating the example of Pope Francis-serving and being with the poor," he added.  (FREEMAN)