Palma, Rañola return home after recovering from COVID-19

CDN DIGITAL FILE PHOTO | GERARD VINCENT FRANCISCO

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma and Cebu Auxiliary Bishop-Emeritus Antonio Rañola have returned on Sunday afternoon, February 28, to the Archbishop’s Residence in Cebu City.

This after they were discharged from the hospital at 5 p.m. on Sunday for having fully recovered from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Archdiocese of Cebu reported.

In a pre-recorded message from the Archbishop’s Residence shortly after arriving from the hospital, Palma expressed gratitude to those who prayed for the prelates’ speedy recovery.

“It’s nice to be home, to resume our duties and ministries. We know thousands have been affected and many have perished… For us who are given another opportunity to continue our ministry, we say praise God!” said Palma.

“We take this occasion to sincerely thank the hospital administration, the doctors, caregivers, and the many people whose prayers reach heaven and whose care make us feel truly loved,” he added.

Palma was admitted to the Perpetual Succour Hospital last February 19 after contracting COVID-19. He and Rañola, one of his close contacts, spent at least 10 days in hospital care for their recovery.

On the other hand, Palma assured Catholics here that the celebration for the 500 Years of Christianity, the religious aspect of the country’s Quincentennial Celebration, would continue.

“Despite Covid, we have so much to thank the Lord for, so much to prepare for, so much to celebrate, and we have a legacy to share,” he said.

EARLIER STORY: Palma, Rañola fully recover from COVID-19