Pope Francis expressed his admiration for the faith of Filipino Catholics during a speech at the Vatican on December 16.
Addressing a visiting Filipino community from Spain, he praised their steadfast faith amid modern challenges.
“The Filipinos are men and women of faith,” he remarked, highlighting their contributions within the Vatican.
He urged Filipinos to continue their witness in a society that often prioritizes wealth and self-sufficiency.
The occasion marked the 25th anniversary of the Immaculate Conception and Saint Lorenzo Ruiz parish in Barcelona.
Pope Francis honored Saint Lorenzo Ruiz as a symbol of cultural integration and resilience, noting his Chinese ancestry.
He reflected on the injustices that forced Ruiz to leave his homeland, leading to his martyrdom in Japan.
The pope drew parallels between Ruiz’s experiences and the struggles faced by many migrants today.
He also reminisced about his 2015 visit to the Philippines, recalling the overwhelming attendance at Mass despite a storm.
Pope Francis concluded by commending Filipinos for their enduring spirit of faith.
