Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy continues to walk with his priests in a spirit of listening and fraternity, reaching District 3 today for a consultation held at the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Miguel Arcangel in Argao.
The faithful of Argao warmly welcomed the Archbishop, setting a prayerful tone for the day that began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
Anchoring his homily on today’s Gospel, which speaks about repentance and forgiveness, Archbishop Uy reminded the faithful not to judge one another, saying that like the lost sheep and the woman who lost a coin, the Lord seeks and welcomes us with mercy, not judgment.
“Kon gibati ta nga grabe ta kangil-ad nga taw, grabe ta nga makasasala, please don’t lose hope. God is trying to find you now. Ang ato lang buhaton, magpakita ka, mogawas ta kay gipangita ta sa Diyos,” exhorting the faithful never to tire seeking God amidst their sinfulness.
He also shared his dream for the Archdiocese—one that opens its doors to sinners seeking to return to God, where every parish and community becomes a true home of welcome, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
“Mao ni usa sa atong damgo, tinguha sa Archdiocese of Cebu, usa unta ta ka Archdiocese, usa ka simbahan nga adunay luna, dakong lugar ug panahon para sa mga masalaypon. Dili unta ta mahimong Archdiocese para sa mga Pariseo ug mga magtutudlo’g balaod nga tigpakaaron-ingnon, mahukmanon ug dali masalikway sa mga tawo nga anaa sa lisod nga kahimtang. We should be a Church, a welcoming Church, a forgiving Church, a reconciling Church. Matag usa nato, maningkamot nga di mangaway, magkumpetensiya, kon dili magtinabangay,” he said.
In the dialogue that followed, priests shared insights, concerns, and hopes for the life of the Church in their local communities. Through this encounter, the Archbishop reaffirmed his pastoral commitment to accompany his clergy and nurture unity within the presbyterium.
This continuing consultation reflects his conviction that true pastoral leadership begins by listening — to the Spirit, to the clergy, and to the people.