CBCP, JesCom call on public to exercise discipline during papal visit

Pope Francis greets the pilgrims during his weekly general audience in St Peter’s square at the Vatican on December 04, 2013. Giulio Napolitano / Shutterstock

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and Jesuit Communications (JesCom) are calling on the Catholic faithful to demonstrate discipline when they attend the activities of Pope Francis during his visit from January15-19, 2015.

The organizations posted a video on the Papal Visit website, in which they asked the public to respect the barricades and avoid pushing other people

“No pushing. Let us avoid hurting others. Let us respect the instructions and respect the barricade,” the video reminded.

Organizers have encouraged the faithful to actively take part in all the public ceremonies throughout Pope Francis’ five-day apostolic and state visit, but to observe peace and order during the scheduled events.

Church officials urged those who will attend the masses to be celebrated by the Pontiff sing along with church songs, as well as to join the responses.

The faithful have also been enjoined to dress appropriately for the occasion and the weather, to keep close watch on their children, to give way to the elderly and disabled, and to pay close attention to instructions from organizers and officials for the sake of everyone’s safety, health, and security.