Pope Francis: The Catholic Church's future is here in Asia

First he was impressed. On the second day of Pope Francis' five-day state visit and apostolic journey to the Philippines, he was wowed by the Filipinos.

 

Seeing the warm reception at every event of the papal visit on Friday, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle quoted the Pope as saying: "Wow. The Filipinos are energetic. They don't get tired."

 

To which, Tagle replied: "We are youthful."

 

The pope then said: "The future of the Church is in Asia. I saw it in Sri Lanka, and I saw it here."

 

Earlier Friday, Pope Francis paid President Benigno Aquino III a courtesy call at Malacañang Palace in Manila. 

 

After their meeting, the 78-year-old pope gave his first statement to the Philippine public. He dared Filipino politicians to shun corruption and prioritize the poor. 

 

In his speech, he also underlined the importance of family and the youth in the renewal of society.

 

After his meeting with government officials and the diplomatic corps, the pope went to Manila Cathedral in an open-vehicle motorcade. Again, he was welcomed by thousands of people.

 

The the first mass that the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church celebrated in the country was attended by bishops, priests, nuns, and other prelates.

 

In his homily, Pope Francis emphasized the contribution of the 15 million overseas Filipino workers spread all around the world. He said that overseas workers are "often neglected."

 

In the same sermon, the first Jesuit pope urged Catholic leaders in the country to resist powerful forces that are tempting youth with "confusing" messages on sexuality, marriage, and the family. 

 

Before heading to the Apostolic Nunciature - his temporary residence while in Manila – the pope met with former street children who are now in the care of a foundation. 

 

Later Friday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Pope Francis said that he was "moved" after meeting the street children. 

 

The first pope from Latin America arrived in Manila on Thursday late afternoon. He was welcomed by a million Catholic Filipinos, which left the Pope "impressed."

 

This is the pontiff's first visit in the country, where 80 percent of the 100 million population identify as Catholic.

 

Vatican spokesman Fr. Federic Lombardi earlier said that the pope's visit to the country is important because the Philippines is the bastion of the Catholic Church in Asia. — JDS, GMA News