07/03/2026
A Pastoral Call in a Time of Global Uncertainty
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, especially our priests, religious, and lay faithful in the Archdiocese of Cebu,
Peace be with you.
Recent developments in the Middle East remind us once again how fragile peace in our world can be. As war continues in that region, we are already beginning to feel its effects even here in our country. One immediate consequence is the rising price of oil, which will soon affect transportation, electricity, and the cost of many basic commodities.
For this reason, I would like to make a simple appeal to all our parishes and lay faithful in the Archdiocese of Cebu.
First, let us pray for peace. I ask our parishes to include special intentions in the Prayers of the Faithful for peace in the Middle East and for an end to war. I also invite our families and communities to pray the Rosary and offer personal prayers for peace. War brings suffering especially to innocent civilians—children, women, and the elderly. Let us ask the Lord to touch the hearts of leaders and guide them toward dialogue and peace.
Second, I encourage everyone to be more mindful in the use of energy. With the rising cost of oil, electricity and transportation will also be affected. Let us avoid unnecessary waste of electricity and fuel. Simple actions—turning off unused lights, conserving energy, and living more simply—can help our families and at the same time express our care for our common home.
Third, I appeal to everyone to be especially attentive to the needs of our poor neighbors. When prices rise, it is always the poor who suffer the most. Many families are already struggling to provide food and basic necessities for their children. If God has blessed us with a little more, this is a good time to share. Even simple acts of generosity can bring hope to someone who is quietly struggling.
As the Scriptures remind us: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17).
In this time of uncertainty, let us respond with faith, simplicity, and generosity. Let us pray more, care for creation, and look after one another as one family.
May the Santo Niño continue to guide and protect our beloved Cebu, and may the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede for our troubled world.
With my prayers and blessing for all of you.
+Alberto S. Uy
Archbishop of Cebu
A Pastoral Call in a Time of Global Uncertainty
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, especially our priests, religious, and lay faithful in the Archdiocese of Cebu,
Peace be with you.
Recent developments in the Middle East remind us once again how fragile peace in our world can be. As war continues in that region, we are already beginning to feel its effects even here in our country. One immediate consequence is the rising price of oil, which will soon affect transportation, electricity, and the cost of many basic commodities.
For this reason, I would like to make a simple appeal to all our parishes and lay faithful in the Archdiocese of Cebu.
First, let us pray for peace. I ask our parishes to include special intentions in the Prayers of the Faithful for peace in the Middle East and for an end to war. I also invite our families and communities to pray the Rosary and offer personal prayers for peace. War brings suffering especially to innocent civilians—children, women, and the elderly. Let us ask the Lord to touch the hearts of leaders and guide them toward dialogue and peace.
Second, I encourage everyone to be more mindful in the use of energy. With the rising cost of oil, electricity and transportation will also be affected. Let us avoid unnecessary waste of electricity and fuel. Simple actions—turning off unused lights, conserving energy, and living more simply—can help our families and at the same time express our care for our common home.
Third, I appeal to everyone to be especially attentive to the needs of our poor neighbors. When prices rise, it is always the poor who suffer the most. Many families are already struggling to provide food and basic necessities for their children. If God has blessed us with a little more, this is a good time to share. Even simple acts of generosity can bring hope to someone who is quietly struggling.
As the Scriptures remind us: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17).
In this time of uncertainty, let us respond with faith, simplicity, and generosity. Let us pray more, care for creation, and look after one another as one family.
May the Santo Niño continue to guide and protect our beloved Cebu, and may the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede for our troubled world.
With my prayers and blessing for all of you.
+Alberto S. Uy
Archbishop of Cebu
