Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula on Wednesday, August 11, has asked the faithful to pray for the safety of Pope Francis.
The cardinal issued the call after an envelope addressed to the pontiff containing three bullets was intercepted in Milan, Italy.
"While the incident is still being investigated as to who sent it and what is the motive of the envelope containing three bullets for Pope Francis, we should continuously pray for his safety," Advincula told Radio Veritas.
He also urged the faithful to include in their prayers those looking to spread violence.
"Let us pray that the Lord will touch the heart of the people looking to spread terror, violence, lies, and violation of human rights," said Advincula.
Pope Francis visited the Philippines in January 2015.
During his visit, he described how the Philippines is gifted “for it is the foremost Catholic country in Asia."
“This is itself a special gift of God, a special blessing,” the Pope said in his homily during Mass at the Luneta Park. “But it is also a vocation. Filipinos are called to be outstanding missionaries of the faith in Asia.”