A vigil was held at the San Roque Cathedral last Saturday in celebration of Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan’s elevation to the rank of cardinal.

Before the vigil, Rev. Fr. Christian Jocson led a Mass, emphasizing the importance of prayers as Bishop David assumed his new role in the Church.

“We are also including in our prayers the appointment of Bishop Virgilio David as a cardinal,” said Fr. Jocson in his homily.

The priest also urged prayers for the newly appointed cardinals, emphasizing the need for them to be spiritually ready to serve God’s kingdom.

Following the 6 p.m. Mass, which was celebrated by Fr. Jocson, a vigil was held, while the consistory ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica was livestreamed to the Caloocan parish.

In a video message, now-Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David expressed his gratitude to his friends and countrymen for their prayers and support in his preparations for the consistory at the Vatican.

“I would like to thank my brothers at the Diocese of Kalookan for their prayers as I prepare for the consistory. Thank you, and I look forward to returning to the Philippines this Wednesday,” shared the newly-appointed cardinal.

A total of 21 new cardinals from 13 countries, including the Philippines, were appointed by Pope Francis.