Bishop: Good Shepherd of the Church

We recently experienced the mystery and joy in the Church brought about by the announcement of the newly appointed bishops of nearby vacant dioceses — Most Rev. Abel Apigo, bishop of Mati and Most Rev. Medel Aseo, bishop of Tagum. In communion with the Pope, these new bishops exercise their authority in humility and service as shepherds of their respective local churches.

Canon Law 378 states that those suitable for the episcopate are: 1. Outstanding in strong faith, good morals, piety, zeal for souls, wisdom, prudence and human virtues, and possess those other gifts which equip him to fulfil the office in question; 2. Held in good esteem; 3. At least 35 years old; 4. A priest ordained for at least five years; and 5. Hold a doctorate or at least licentiate in sacred Scripture, theology or canon law, from an institute of higher studies approved by the Apostolic See, or at least be well versed in these disciplines.

“The Good Shepherd ought to be the model and ‘form’ of the bishop’s pastoral office. Conscious of his own weaknesses, ‘the bishop…can have compassion for those who are ignorant and erring. He should not refuse to listen to his subjects whose welfare he promotes as of his very own children… The faithful… should be closely attached to the bishop as the Church is to Jesus Christ, and as Jesus Christ is to the Father” (CCC 896).