(Photo by Eytan Schweber/Tazpit Press Service)
MANILA – An official of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) on Wednesday expressed sympathies to those who died, including two Filipinos, in the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian militant group Hamas.
In a statement, CBCP-ECMI vice chair Bishop Ruperto Santos said they are also praying for strength for the families of the two Filipinos who perished in the attack.
“We remember with tremendous sorrow those who lost their lives, especially our two OFWs (overseas Filipino workers). We commend them to God’s mercy to welcome them in His Home, and to His healing love for the bereaved family. May God sustain them, with His grace make them strong and keep them safe and secured in this very trying time,” the Antipolo bishop said.
Santos said they are also ready to help government agencies such the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in attending to the needs of the OFWs.
“We extend our hands and offer our assistance. Here, our Church is ready and always available to be of service to them, especially with their sons and daughters. Our diocesan migrant ministries will be there to help and to serve,” he added.
Santos assured that they continue to offer prayers for peace to reign and also to those affected by the unrest.
“We have asked our dear chaplain to pray and offer holy masses with the intentions for peace, end of violence and return to civility and respect for human life,” the Catholic prelate said.
Meanwhile, Santos issued a “Prayer for Israel”, appealing for God’s intervention and to protect the innocent. (PNA)
