ROXAS City – A solemn installation rite of the Most Reverend Monsignor Victor Bendico as the 4th Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Capiz was held at the Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral (ICMC) on Wednesday, May 3.
The ceremony was led by the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, Most Reverend Charles John Brown, D.D., particularly in the seating of the new Bishop after the reading of Pope Francis’ apostolic letter on the appointment of Bishop Bendico to shepherd the faithful and the church in the province.
The religious undertaking was also graced by about 300 priests led by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula, Jr., and Cotabato Archbishop Emeritus Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, among others.
“I will be your shepherd after the heart of Jesus. I will never fail to trust Him every day,” said Bishop Bendico in a homily.
The newly-installed Archbishop also called for inclusivity, as he invoked the need for the community to always stick together to ensure no one is left behind.
Civic and ecclesiastical reception for the new Archbishop was conducted on May 2 at the Roxas City Band Stand and ICMC, respectively.
Capiz governor Fredenil Castro and Roxas City mayor Ronnie Dadivas led the reception and welcome activity.
“Your return to Capiz, your motherland, brings an exhilarating joy to all of us,” Castro said, citing that the bishop’s stewardship of the Catholic church will further strengthen the Capiceños’ faith in God.
Before his appointment to lead the Archdiocese of Capiz, the 63-year-old Capiceño Bishop, also served as bishop of the Diocese of Baguio City. (PIA Capiz)
