The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Mission (CBCP-ECM) urged the faithful "to support and pray for all Filipino missionaries" in their mission to help spread the Word of God.
Puerto Princesa Bishop Socrates Mesiona, who is also the chairman of the CBCP-ECM, said it is important to pray for all Filipino missionaries here and abroad as they help spread the Good News as the country marks the 500 years of Christianity.
"Let us support the Mission Society of the Philippines (MSP) and all Filipino missionaries. We must remember, pray, encourage, and support them especially that we are celebrating the 500 Years of Christianity because they are the concrete expression of the gift that we would like to share, They are offering and sacrificing their lives to help spread the faith,” Bishop Mesiona said over Radio Veritas.
The MSP is the local missionary arm of the Church established by the CBCP in 1965.
The country is set to observe Fil-Mission Sunday on July 25 with the theme, "Gifted to Give."
"It is an opportune time also to remember them in this special day allotted for the Filipino missionaries," Mesiona said.
The Church leader, likewise, urged the faithful to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and the religious life and even for more lay missionaries to help spread the Word of God.
Pope Francis has earlier recognized the efforts of Filipino missionaries including overseas Filipino workers in their work to spread the Good News amid threats to their lives and well-being.