Officials from the Pontificio Collegio Filippino ( PCF) encourage believers to be more concerned about others.
According to PCF Rector Fr. Gregory Ramon Gaston, leading the Church’s charitable activities in communities is at the heart of Caritas Internationalis’ activity.
The priest emphasized that the Church cannot be compared to a non-governmental organization ( NGO) because all of its actions are based on love and the expansion of the Holy Spirit.
“Lahat ng itinutulong natin, ginagawa ng simbahan ay ultimately patungo sa espiritwal; kung may ginagawa man tayo mga outreach (program), apostolate lahat ito ay magdadala sa atin mapapalapit sa Panginoon, sa ganitong paraan mai-share natin ang Panginoon sa ating kapwa,” Fr. Gaston told Radio Veritas.
Caritas members recently gathered in Rome for the 22nd General Assembly, where Caritas International President Emeritus, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, spoke.
Although Cardinal Tagle is no longer the leader of the Church’s social arm, Pope Francis has appointed him to interact with other Caritas organizations in dioceses around the world, according to Fr. Gaston.
During the conference, Tokyo Archbishop Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi was elected president of the Vatican’s charitable arm, becoming the organization’s second Asian leader following Cardinal Tagle.
Fr. Gaston urged the people to continue praying for Pope Francis, Cardinal Tagle, and the new Caritas internationalis leadership. Their purpose is to help disadvantage communities and victims of natural disasters.
The Catholic Church’s charitable attitude distinguishes it from non-governmental organizations. Its work within communities is distinguished by its emphasis on spiritual growth, love, and sharing the Lord ’s grace with others. As the new leaders of Caritas Internationalis assume office, the Faithful are encouraged to pray for them and join them in their efforts to relieve poverty and assist those suffering from various types of hardship. (Luis Angelo Sta. Maria/Volunteer Writer/San Felipe Neri Parish)
