Cardinal-elect Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan received a valuable reminder from Pope Francis: “Don’t forget humor.”
In a post on its website, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) shared details about the brief meeting between the two Catholic church leaders that took place on Oct. 9 at the Paul VI Audience Hall in the Vatican, ahead of a synod session.
In their conversation, David expressed in Spanish, “Holy Father, I am the bishop from the Philippines. You’ve changed my life again.”
He then asked why there had not been prior notice “for something that is so serious.”
“This is the way things are. Don’t take things too seriously, Pablo. Take it with a grain of humor, God’s humor, okay?” Pope Francis responded before sharing a hearty laugh with the bishop.
“I’m here for you—in whatever way I can be of help. Please give me your blessing,” Bishop David told the pope.
After the Pope Francis blessed him, they shared an embrace.
On Oct. 6, the pope revealed the appointment of 21 new cardinals, among them Bishop David, who also serves as the president of the CBCP.
The installation ceremony, known as a consistory, is set for Dec. 8.