Church official steps into dispute involving priest, parishioners

The Archdiocese of Cebu has intervened into the reported dispute involving a Lapu-Lapu City priest and five of his parishioners.

Msgr. Joseph Tan, archdiocesan spokesperson, said they have invited Fr. Bernard Corpuz, parish priest of the Our Lady of Rule parish, to a dialog with his accusers.

This after reports reached the attention of Tan on the alleged refusal of Fr. Corpuz to give the sacrament of baptism to five siblings aged 10 to 23 years old coming from Barangay Basak in Lapu-Lapu City because of their failure to recite the Apostle’s Creed.

“I understand Fr. Corpuz because the Apostle’s Creed is the summary of faith as a Roman Catholic, but then again, he has to understand (also) that we have to prioritize the salvation of souls of every individual,” Msgr. Tan said.

Fr. Corpuz had earlier denied the accusations against him.

He said that he even asked the five siblings to see him at the church rector so they could talk and clarify whatever may have caused their disagreements.

Corpuz also said that before any believer could undergo the sacrament of baptism, he will have to undergo catechism.

Tan said he already asked Fr. Corpuz to give the sacrament of baptism on the five siblings and help monitor their progress as Roman Catholics.

“Let’s give them other alternative rather than memorizing the Apostle’s Creed as a requirement for their baptism, especially to those who were not able to read, because they lack educational attainment. What’s important is that they understand what they’re praying,” he added.