#ShowThePope: Gratitude for the Holy Father

MANILA, Philippines – On the second day of Pope Francis’ visit, thousands gather at the Manila Cathedral for the once in a lifetime opportunity to see the pontiff.

Katerina Francisco reports.

The Pope’s Mass inside the Manila Cathedral is limited only to about 2,000 Filipino priests but that didn’t stop these crowds from trying to get a glimpse of the charismatic Argentine pontiff.

Cheers and shouts greet Francis as he zooms by on his popemobile and waves to the crowd.

And despite the long hours of waiting the catholic faithful turned out by the dozens to show the Pope the strength of Filipino faith.

KIMBERLY RAGODOS, AUGUSTINIAN RECOLLECT SISTERS: Gusto namin iparating ang pagmamahala, pasasalamat sa malasakit niya sa atin. (We want to show our love and gratitude for his genuine concern.)

ANA SOPHIA FLORES, HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT: Kabataan na sinasabing walang nagagawa, nag-prepare para kay Pope. (The youth who others say are not able to give much impact, but they were the ones who made a lot of sacrifice in preparation for the Pope’s visit. 

JOSEFINA UMATAN: Pagpahalaga sa Panginoon, parang simbolo siya ng Romano Katoliko na tayong mga taong punung-puno ng pag-ibig… ehemplo siya ng pag-ibig sa kapwa. (He is a symbol of the Roman Catholic Church, showing we are full of love. He is the example of love for your fellow men.

With his charismatic appeal and common touch, observers say Pope Francis may just be the kind of leader the Catholic Church needs to bring the institution closer to the people.

Katerina Francisco, Rappler, Manila. – Rappler.com