Caritas Manila marked its 73rd anniversary with a celebration centered on the call to become faithful stewards of God’s gifts and to bear fruit through compassion, service, and love for the poor.
In his homily, the Archbishop reflected on the significance of the anniversary coinciding with the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, whose life was marked by simplicity, compassion, and closeness to the poor.
Drawing from the Scripture readings of the day, particularly the imagery of the vineyard, the Archbishop likened Caritas Manila to a vineyard entrusted by its owner to faithful stewards.
“The vineyard is not the property of the stewards. It is only entrusted to them,” he said, emphasizing that the mission of Caritas Manila is not about ownership but about the responsible stewardship of the gifts and resources entrusted by God and His people.
For 73 years, Caritas Manila has touched countless lives through its various programs and services, providing educational opportunities for young people, assistance to families in times of need, and support to those seeking to rebuild their lives with renewed hope.
The Archbishop noted that the fruits of charitable work cannot simply be measured by the number of people assisted. True fruitfulness can also be seen in lives transformed, dignity restored, and people given renewed strength and hope to face the challenges of life.
The example of St. Francis of Assisi offers a model for this kind of stewardship. Rather than seeking wealth and honor, St. Francis chose a life of simplicity and drew close to those living in poverty and suffering. His encounter with the poor, including a leper, became part of his journey toward deeper conversion and holiness.
“We are not only called to do charity. We are called to become people of caritas—people who know how to draw near, listen, empathize, and live as brothers and sisters,” the Archbishop said.
He further emphasized that the poor are not merely recipients of assistance. They can also become teachers and companions who help those who serve them grow as disciples of Christ.
“In the vineyard of God, the best fruit we can offer Him is not only the lives changed because of us, but also how our own lives have been changed because of love,” he reflected.
The Archbishop expressed gratitude for the volunteers, staff, benefactors, partners, and countless individuals who have generously shared their time, resources, and abilities in support of Caritas Manila’s mission.
He also entrusted the organization’s continuing mission to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church and Mother of the Poor, praying that Caritas Manila may remain a faithful steward of God’s blessings for the benefit of those most in need.
As Caritas Manila enters another year of service, the celebration reminds the Church that charity is more than an act of giving—it is a vocation to draw near, serve, restore dignity, and give life through the love of Christ.
Photo from Caritas Manila
