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Billones cites Pope Francis as epitome of mercy

Philippines | Luzon

Billones cites Pope Francis as epitome of mercy

ILOILO CITY – Jaro Archbishop Midyphil “Dodong” Billones said Pope Francis was the epitome of mercy.

ARCHBISHOP Midyphil ‘Dodong’ Billones (left) speaks during the April 26, 2025 Requiem Mass that coincided with the funeral of Pope Francis at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)

“Mercy summarizes the life of Pope Francis when we re-read his whole narrative,” said Billones in his homily during the Requiem Mass on Saturday for Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday.

“Mercy can be conceptual, can only be felt as true when it is close to you. Therefore, mercy demands proximity and closeness,” Billones told the faithful in the Mass at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral here that coincided with the funeral of Pope Francis.

Billones said Pope Francis broke long-standing traditions and protocols to forge deeper connections with people regardless of who they are in society, including those who are ills of society.

“For him, to bring mercy is to bring hope and healing even for those behind bars,” Billones said.

“Pope Francis made his whole life a recipient and someone who is a receptor and conveyor of God’s mercy,” added Billones.

Pope Francis appointed Billones as the 14^th prelate of the Archdiocese of Jaro composed of Catholic communities in Iloilo City, the 42 towns and a component city in Iloilo province, and the five towns of Guimaras province.

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Archdiocese of Jaro Archbishop Midyphil Bermejo Billones Iloilo City Pope Francis

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