MANILA, March 18, 2013— Catholic Churches across the country will hold Mass on Tuesday, as new Pope Francis starts his ‘Petrine Ministry’.
Archbishop Jose Palma, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, also requested all the dioceses to offer “special prayers” for the new leader of the Catholic Church.
“Archbishop Palma has requested the bishops special prayers in all Masses tomorrow for the intention of the Holy Father as he begins his petrine ministry,” said CBCP secretary general Msgr. Joselito Asis.
The Mass for the inauguration of Pope Francis will be held on March 19, the feast of St. Joseph at 9:30am (4:30pm Manila time).
Various heads of state and governments are expected to attend the papal inaugural Mass. Vice President Jejomar Binay will go with the Philippine delegation to Rome for the occasion.
Last Saturday, a crowd of young Catholics gathered outside the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Parañaque City to show their support with prayers and lively chants for the pope.
“Mabuhay ang Santo Papa! Viva il Papa!” chanted the crowd of around 100 people. (CBCPNews)
