Kidapawan Bishop Jose Bagaforo emphasized that the simultaneous start of Ramadan and the Lenten season on February 18 is a “grace.”
In his message, Bishop Bagaforo said both seasons invite everyone to slow down, return to God, and walk together in faith.
Echoing Pope Leo’s message for the World Day of Peace, “Towards an Unarmed and Disarming Peace,” he reminded the public that true peace is not achieved through weapons or fear.
Instead, he said peace is built through trust, justice, dialogue, and responsibility.
Because of this, he invited Christians and Muslims, interreligious dialogue desks, and civil society partners to pray together.
He also urged everyone to pay attention to the poor, protect the environment, and promote peace.
Bishop Bagaforo expressed hope that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent would become a “living prayer.”
(PHOTO COURTESY: Caritas Philippines)
