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to preserve and defend such basic human values as respect for the inviolable dignity of each human person , respect for the rights of conscience and religious freedom , and respect for the inalienable right to life , beginning with that of the unborn and extending to that of the elderly and infirm . For this reason , families and local communities must be encouraged and assisted in their efforts to transmit to our young the values and the vision which can help bring about a culture of integrity – one which honors goodness , truthfulness , fidelity and solidarity as the firm foundation and the moral glue which holds society together . Mr President , distinguished authorities , dear friends : As I begin my visit to this country , I cannot fail to mention the Philippines ’ important role in fostering understanding and cooperation among the countries of Asia . I would also mention the oft - neglected yet real contribution of Filipinos of the diaspora to the life and welfare of the societies in which they live . It is precisely in the light of the rich cultural and religious heritage of which your country is proud that I leave you with a challenge and a word of prayerful encouragement . May the deepest spiritual values of the Filipino people continue to find expression in your efforts to provide your fellow citizens with an integral human development . In this way , each person will be able to fulfill his or her potential , and thus contribute wisely and well to the future of this country . I am confident that the praiseworthy efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation between the followers of the different religions will prove fruitful in the pursuit of this noble goal . In a particular way , I express my trust that the progress made in bringing peace to the south of the country will result in just solutions in accord with the nation ’ s founding principles and respectful of the inalienable rights of all , including the indigenous peoples and religious minorities . Upon all of you , and upon all the men , women and children of this beloved nation , I cordially invoke God ’ s abundant blessings .
     

Pope Francis Homily , Manila Cathedral , Jan . 16, 2015

    “ Do you love me ?… Tend my sheep ” ( John 21:15-17). Jesus ’ words to Peter in today ’ s Gospel are the first words I speak to you , dear brother bishops and priests , men and women religious , and young seminarians . These words remind us of something essential . All pastoral ministry is born of love . All consecrated life is a sign of Christ ’ s reconciling love . Like Saint Therese , in the variety of our vocations , each of us is called , in some way , to be love in the heart of the Church . I greet all of you with great affection . And I ask you to bring my affection to all your elderly and infirm brothers and sisters , and to all those who cannot join us today . As the Church in the Philippines looks to the fifth centenary of its evangelization , we feel gratitude for the legacy left by so many bishops , priests and religious of past generations . They labored not only to preach the Gospel and build up the Church in this country , but also to forge a society inspired by the Gospel message of charity , forgiveness and solidarity in the service of the common good . Today you carry on that work of love . Like them , you are called to build bridges , to pasture Christ ’ s flock , and to prepare fresh paths for the Gospel in Asia at the dawn of a new age .

“ The love of Christ impels us ” (2 Cor 5:14). In today ’ s first reading Saint Paul tells us that the love we are called to proclaim is a reconciling love , flowing from the heart of the crucified Savior . We are called to be “ ambassadors for Christ ” (2 Cor 5:20). Ours is a ministry of reconciliation . We proclaim the Good News of God ’ s infinite love , mercy and compassion . We proclaim the joy of the Gospel . For the Gospel is the promise of God ’ s grace , which alone can bring