In a heartfelt message, Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, the president of Caritas Philippines, has called on the faithful to unite and actively work towards instilling hope within the church as part of the upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year celebrations. The bishop emphasized the importance of strengthening faith, spreading hope, and recommitting to service, compassion, and justice.
Bishop Bagaforo stressed that hope is an active force that requires bold and faithful action. He urged the community to ensure that Caritas Philippines continues its dedicated service to the most marginalized and vulnerable members of society. He also highlighted the church’s responsibility to protect nature, aligning with Jesus Christ’s teachings.
The bishop underscored that the church’s collective efforts should embody the Gospel’s values of truth, love, and integrity, aiming to build a future rooted in democracy and human dignity. He advocated for a collaborative approach involving the church, government, and other societal sectors to ensure inclusivity and support for all.
As pilgrims of hope, Bishop Bagaforo encouraged everyone to carry Christ’s light into the world, hoping that the New Year would bring renewal, resilience, and steadfast faith. The message comes ahead of the Jubilee Year, which Pope Francis will inaugurate on December 24, 2024, by opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
Caritas Philippines also noted that the Jubilee Year would foster a comprehensive church response to heritage development and the promotion of a universal and natural consciousness.