Congress of the Clergy: Prayers for peace in Iraq and for the Filipino hostage

Manila (AsiaNews) – The  3869 bishops, priests, and deacons attending the first national Congress of the Clergy have appealed for prayers "for peace in Iraq and its people," and for the safe return of Angelo de la Cruz, the kidnapped Filipino truck driver threatened with death. "We join his family," said Monsignor Fernando Capalla, archbishop of Davao and president of the Episcopal Conference, "and the entire nation in storming heavens that he be spared this ultimate cruelty." "We also pray for his tormentors, that the Lord soften their hearts so that they will release Angelo," Capalla added.

 "Our fervent hope and prayers," said Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales of Manila, "are for Angelo de la Cruz and his release. We pray with all our hearts that his life be spared and that peace be upon the region."

In the meantime, the Congress proceedings continue. In a press briefing (the Congress sits in closed session), Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales expressed his surprise at the great number of participants, almost 4,000 strong. "Officially," he explained, "3869 bishops, priests, and deacons registered for the Congress. And the view from the altar's lectern is one of an endless sea of churchmen."

"Every day," said Bishop Rosales, "I share with my fellow priests and bishops the morning prayers which we dedicate to God. The celebration of the Eucharist is followed by devotions and an enlightening sermon by whoever is presiding."

The Congress has not only been a time for prayers but also a time for informal get-togethers with old friends and colleagues. One bishop remarked that whilst the media think about the Congress in terms of resolutions and final declarations, it is primarily a place of reunion and communion, an ideal place for exchange.

• philippines
• iraq
• peace
• clergy
• congress