In celebration of the 50th anniversary of “Pacem in Terris,” the papal encyclical on world peace by Blessed John XXIII, the Association of Catholic Universities of the Philippines (Acup) headed by UST Rector Magnificus Fr. Herminio V. Dagohoy, OP, will hold a national conference on Jan. 9-11 at the University of Immaculate Conception (Bajada Campus) in  Davao City. Theme is The Formation of New Catholics Engaged in Politics: the Challenge and Inspiration of Catholic Universities.

Keynote speaker is Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, who will deliver an address on The Formation of New Catholics in Politics.

Hosts are the University of Immaculate Conception, headed by Sr. Marissa Viri, RVM, and Notre Dame of Marbel University headed by Bro. Wilfredo Lubrico, FMS.

Canonization in Rome

Filipino pilgrims are going to Rome for the canonization of Blessed John Paul II and Blessed John XXIII on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27.

In Manila, Adam’s Express Travel has asked Bishop Arturo Bastes, SVD, of the Diocese of Sorsogon to be chaplain of the group going to Italy on April 24 and coming back May 3.

After the canonization, the group will proceed to Lanciano where one can find the Shrine of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo. Also included in the itinerary are the Churches of St. Francis of Assisi, Venice, Como and Milan.

Other pilgrimages

For the same event, Adam’s Travel has arranged earlier departures that will end up in Rome for the canonization. Fr. Efren “Momoy” Borromeo, a healing priest, will lead a Marian pilgrimage on April 11 that will end up in Rome  for the canonization. Included in the trip is a visit to San Giovanni Rotondo where one can find the shrine of St. Padre Pio.  On April 13, Fr. Max Gatela will be chaplain of a special tour of the Adriatic Coast and Medjugorje.

Other pilgrimages and their chaplains are Fr. Joden Tenorio with Lourdes and Fatima on April 12; Fr. Alex Balatbat and Fr. Roy Crucero, a Marian pilgrimage with Padre Pio shrine, April 22; Bishop Jesse Mercado, tour of Eastern Europe, on April 22; Fr. George of India who is based here in Manila, a tour of Marian shrines, on April 23; and Fr. Bobby Mariano, Eastern Europe with Switzerland, on April 24.

For inquiries, text Anna at  0917-5514468 or call 5211651/38.