Rev. Fr. Henry E. Ferreras of the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice (PHS) is newly elected president of Caritas Cubao.
In a meeting of diocesan clergy last Feb. 20, Fr. Ferreras recalled that he was “nominated and seconded by the Bishop” to ascend the post.
“It’s not totally foreign sa akin, kasi I used to be the head of the Social Services and Development Ministry (SSDM),” Fr. Ferreras said when asked about the nature of his new assignment.
The social arm of SSDM, Caritas Cubao provides for operational and financial considerations for the different diocesan programs including assistance in health, disaster, livelihood, and scholarship.
Citing our dependence on Caritas Manila that is “well-established already,” Fr. Ferreras plans to enhance Caritas Cubao’s existing programs and create new ones.
“Sana makabuo at makatayo sa sarili natin,” he said.
The new president added that he would ask other parishes to start collecting things that can be donated so that the diocese can extend immediate help once disasters hit.
“May notion ang mga tao na pag lumapit yan sa Simbahan, may maiaabot tayo,” he shared.
Meanwhile, when asked about his election’s effect on parish work, Fr. Ferreras said that everything is up to managing his time well.
Every president is given a two-year term renewable for another two years. To this Fr. Ferreras jokingly said, “Sa akin, two years tama na!”
He pointed out the need to train the young clergy because no one will stay forever in the ministry.
Fr. Ferreras just celebrated his 27th sacerdotal anniversary last March 24.
SSDM is the first ministry that the PHS parish priest handled, before he was involved in Family and Life.
By:
Rogelio R. Nato, Jr.
