A local Muslim leader expressed optimism on the visit of the Roman Catholic pontiff in the country in January. Sultan Gamal Amerol of the Caraga Sultanate said in an interview with the Philippines News Agency on Thursday evening that he understand that Pope Francis is a leader of peace, unity and humility, and according to him, the Muslim faith also lives and supports such virtues.
“I understand that the pope is a leader of peace, unity and humility and his coming visit to our country, especially the reports that he will personally visit the country’s typhoon-ravaged area of Tacloban, proves that,” Amerol said.
He added that if the itinerary of the pope included the Caraga or any place near the region, he would be willing to lead a party or a delegation from his community to be among those who will meet to welcome and even volunteer to escort the pontiff.
Amerol also said he personally believe that the coming of the pope to the Philippines will bring many good things and among them will be the developments which will further strengthen the country’s resolve toward the attainment of unity and peace, particularly to the tri-people (Christians, Muslims and the Indigenous Tribal People) in the island of Mindanao. He recalls that in every celebration of the annual “Mindanao Week of Peace,” he and a representation from his community are always invited by Butuan Diocese Bishop Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos to join the peace activities such as the ecumenical prayers, workshops and other forums for the peace and unity of Mindanao and the country. He said he and those who are from his community who have attended such activities have learned many lessons which they had imparted and, in a way, made an impact on their own community.
“I believe that the presence, the prayers, the messages and the positive virtues lived by the visiting pope may so impact the millions of Filipinos, that they too may become the messengers of peace and unity back to their own communities and other spheres of influence, not only during, but even beyond, the visit of the religious leader to this country of ours,” Amerol said.
PNA