PUERTO PRINCESA (LiCAS News): The Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa inaugurated an apostolate dedicated to the well-being and pastoral care of seafarers and coastal communities on May 30.
The launch followed a Mass celebrated by Bishop Socrates Mesiona at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puerto Princesa City.
Father Eugene Elivera, coordinator of the Committee on Migrants and Itinerant People, will oversee the ministry for “pastoral care for the people of the sea.”
Its mission is to provide spiritual support, counselling, and practical assistance to seafarers, both on land and during their maritime journeys.
In his homily, Bishop Mesiona emphasised the significance of seafarers, saying they are “close to the heart of Jesus.”
He acknowledged their challenges, including separation from families, exposure to unpredictable weather, and vulnerability to exploitation due to globalisation.
“As a Church, we must extend our care to them,” the bishop said. “Let us pray for their well-being, seeking the intercession of the Blessed Mother, the Star of the Sea [Stella Maris].”
The launch was attended by officials from the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the City Tourism Council.
Victorino Dennis Socrates, governor of Palawan; city councillor, Karl Dylan Aquino; representatives of the Philippine Ports Authority; and seafarers’ families also participated in the event.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
In April, Bishop Ruperto Santos of Stella Maris ministry, and Bishop Mesiona discussed the possibility of establishing a centre in the apostolic vicariate to provide pastoral care for seafarers, fishers, and their families.
Bishop Santos said the maritime charity intends to build more centres in the country to reach areas with a large number of seafarers and fisherfolk.`
