Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu asks Cebuanos to pray for him as he prepares for his new mission

Cebu City, Philippines—Auxiliary Bishop Dennis Villarojo of the Archdiocese of Cebu is looking forward to his new mission in the Diocese of Malolos.

The Cebuano Villarojo was recently assigned as bishop of the Diocese of Malolos in the province of Bulacan, as confirmed by  Monsignor Joseph Tan, spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Cebu on May 14, 2019.

Read more: Cebu’s auxiliary bishop to lead Diocese of Malolos

Villarojo, in an interview with Cebu Daily News Digital, is asking the people of Cebu to continue to pray for him as he takes on a new assignment as a servant of the Lord. 

“Mangayo lang ko ug pag-ampo sa akong bag-ong mission,” the 52-year-old Villarojo said. (I am asking for prayers for my new mission.)

Villarojo said that he is grateful to all the Cebuanos who supported him in all his endeavours here in Cebu. 

“I am thankful to all the Cebuanos who blessed my priestly life,” said Villarojo. 

Villarojo said in the 25 years of his priestly life, this is the first time that he will be reassigned outside of Cebu.  He did admit that there are things he will be missing as he leaves Cebu.

“[I feel] Gamay nga sadness because I’m leaving behind familiar places, mga kaila. But this is also the Lord’s will for me as a bishop” he added. (I feel a bit of sadness because I’m leaving behind familiar places and people I know.) 

Villarojo also expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for the confidence that he has given him to take on something new. 

“I take it as a mission and I will do his will wherever I am assigned,” shared Villarojo. /bmjo