Vatican lauds papal visit preps in PHL

The Vatican is pleased with the ongoing preparations in the Philippines for Pope Francis' visit in January, the University of Santo Tomas' student publication reported.

An article dated Saturday on UST's The Varsitarian said Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle gave this assessment during a recollection at UST last December 3.

"Officials in Rome were surprised to find that the Philippines is doing preparations aimed at developing spirituality and faith. They claim it is the first time a country which will be visited by a Pope has something like this," Tagle said.

He added the Vatican was pleased that Filipino Catholics understand the context of the Pope’s visit. The Pope is to visit the Philippines Jan. 15 to 19.

Still, the prelate said it is important for Filipinos to continue cultivating their faith even after the visit.

He added spiritual preparations "should be on-going."

The Pope, known for being humble and simple, is to visit Manila and Leyte in January. He is to commune with the poor and to have lunch with victims of recent major calamities. — Joel Locsin/LBG,  GMA News