Vatican envoys visit Oro

PAPAL Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown and Archbishop Paul Gallagher arrived at the Laguindingan Airport Wednesday evening for the annual assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando Uy greeted the Vatican envoys. Uy showed his support and respect for the Catholic Church by giving them a warm welcome.

The Kagay-an Performing Arts group performed at the welcoming ceremony to highlight the local culture.

Their performance added a special touch to the event, showcasing the traditions of the Kagay-anon people.

Mayor Uy also presented the archbishops with a welcome gift. This gesture showed gratitude and hospitality, further expressing the city’s appreciation for their visit.

The archbishops are in Mindanao for the CBCP Annual Assembly, taking place in Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro.

This assembly gathers church officials from across the Philippines to discuss key topics and plans for the Catholic Church.

The assembly allows church leaders to address important issues and plan the Church’s activities in the country.

Mayor Uy’s warm welcome shows the city’s support for building strong relationships with religious institutions and promoting cultural exchanges.

The visit of Archbishop Charles John Brown and Archbishop Paul Gallagher strengthens the bond between the city and the Catholic Church, according to city mayor’s office chief of staff Sheila Lumbatan.

She said that Mayor Uy’s hospitality reflects the city’s commitment to fostering harmony and cooperation with religious leaders for the community’s benefit.

Earlier this week, the mayor welcomed over 80 bishops from across the country at a flag-raising ceremony on Monday.

These bishops are attending the 128th plenary assembly of the CBCP from July 6 to July 8 at the Chali Conference Center.

This assembly is the first time the CBCP’s high-level meeting is being held in Mindanao, making it a significant event for the region.

Mayor Uy expressed pride and gratitude, saying that both his administration and the people of Cagayan de Oro are honored to host such a prestigious gathering.

Mayor Uy has asked the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office and the Roads and Traffic Administration to ensure all preparations are complete for the arrival of the bishops and Vatican officials.

He stressed the importance of tight security and smooth traffic management for the event.

The CBCP website mentions that the meeting will start with an address by Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, the CBCP president.

The bishops will discuss key issues and elect chairs for commissions and sub-commissions.

Msgr. Bernardo Pantin, CBCP secretary-general, noted that the agenda includes electing chairs for the Commission on Catholic Education, the Sub-commission on Retired, Sick and Elderly Priests, the Sub-commission for Permanent Deacons, and the Office for the Postulation of the Causes of Saints.

They will also discuss activities for the Jubilee 2025 celebrations in the Philippines.

Lumbatan said this significant event will bring many faithful people from different parts of the country to the city. She highlighted that it will be an important moment for the Catholic Church and the city.

With the city government’s support, the event is expected to be meaningful, emphasizing the values of faith, Lumbatan said.

Before the assembly, the bishops will have a retreat from July 2 to July 4 at the Transfiguration Abbey in Malaybalay City, led by the Benedictine monks.

This retreat aims to offer spiritual reflection and preparation for the upcoming discussions.

Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, will be a key speaker at the retreat.

His talk will focus on “Synod Spirituality: Embracing Ecology in the Light of Laudato Sí and Laudate Deum,” setting a reflective tone for the bishops as they gather in Cagayan de Oro.