Bishop Bagaforo elected co-head of int’l peace movement

A global Catholic peace movement has elected Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan as its co-president.

The Filipino prelate will serve alongside Kenyan Sr. Wamuyu Wachira of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary as co-leader of Pax Christi International for the next three years.

“Together, they will guide Pax Christi International in deepening its commitment to justice, peace, and Gospel nonviolence, building on eight decades of prophetic witness and grassroots engagement,” the movement said.

Bagaforo succeeds Bishop Emeritus Marc Stenger of Troyes in France, ensuring continuity in the movement’s peace mission.

A longtime advocate for social justice, environmental protection and interreligious dialogue, Bagaforo has led Caritas Philippines for six years. He recently assumed leadership of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue.

Known for his moral leadership, he has also spoken out against corruption amid the ongoing investigation into anomalous flood-control projects in the country.

“Peace is never separate from justice,” Bagaforo has consistently affirmed.

His election took place during the organization’s recent 80th Anniversary World Gathering in Florence, Italy.

“May our work in Pax Christi be a humble offering—for peace, for justice, and for a future where every Filipino can live with dignity,” Bagaforo said.

Pax Christi International has 120 member organizations worldwide that promote peace, human rights, justice and reconciliation. (CBCP News)

A version of this article was first published by CBCP News.