Pope Leo XIV urged local bishops to strengthen church unity and deepen pastoral care for overseas Filipino workers as the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) opened its 131st plenary assembly in Manila.
In a message sent to the CBCP and read Saturday by Archbishop Charles Brown, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines, the Pope prayed that the Holy Spirit would guide the bishops’ discussions.
The pontiff said he trusts their talks will help “promote a unity among the faithful” across dioceses and communities, reflecting “the inner life of love of the Holy Trinity” in church life.
The bishops are meeting until Monday (January 26) to discuss church structure, synodal reforms, and pastoral programs, including ministry to millions of Filipinos working abroad.
The Pope highlighted the need for believers to “take care of one another” and share their gifts in service to the wider church, with particular attention to overseas Filipinos.
The greetings were delivered on the Pope’s behalf by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, who said the apostolic blessing was offered as “a pledge of communion and peace in the Lord.”
Pope Leo also entrusted the bishops and their people to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church.
