Philippine diocese’s new bishop vows to continue, strengthen predecessor’s work

Bishop Prudencio Andaya Padilla Jr., the newly installed bishop of the Diocese of Cabanatuan, has promised to carry on and broaden the accomplishments of Bishop-Emeritus Sofronio A. Bancud.

“Please rest assured that as I take up the mantle of leadership, a significant part of my mission will be built upon and further improve the solid foundations you have laid in this diocese,” Padilla said in his address to the faithful during his installation on February 3.

Bancud’s nearly two decades of service in the diocese as its head have greatly contributed to the Church’s mission, Padilla noted.

“Your vision, your wisdom, and your faith have left, I believe, a tremendous mark on the people, especially those you have been serving in the past 19 years,” he said.

With an open heart, he embraced his new role, acknowledging that it's part of God's plan not only for himself but also for the people he serves.

Despite the weight of his new role and the apprehensions accompanying it, Padilla could still feel the profound joy, knowing that it was not about him, but about God and His infinite goodness and love.

“My heartfelt gratitude also goes to the Holy Father, Pope Francis, for the confidence and trust he has placed in me to shepherd another ecclesiastical jurisdiction,” Padilla said. “This new mission comes with unique realities and even great challenges, but I embrace it with faith and hope, trusting in God’s providence.”

He also expressed gratitude to his fellow bishops, who came from different dioceses across the country, for joining the rite for his installation.

“Thank you also, Your Excellencies, my brother bishops, for joining me on this occasion,” Padilla said.

He also expressed gratitude to Bishop-Emeritus Bancud for “remarkable service and leadership, which I hope also to embody."

"With your elevation as bishop emeritus, we honor the 19 years of steadfast love, care, and dedication you put into shepherding this diocese," Padilla said.

Archbishop Charles John Brown, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines and an installing prelate, graced the occasion.

The occasion also saw Socrates B. Villegas, Metropolitan Archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan and homilist.

Padilla vowed to perform his responsibility as the new bishop of the diocese to the best of his ability.

“With faith in Jesus Christ and with love in my heart, I accept the pastoral care of the people of God in the Diocese of Cabanatuan,” he said. "I promise to serve faithfully the church in this diocese as a loving father, gentle shepherd, faithful teacher, and steward of the mysteries of Christ.”