A Tribute To Bishop Fortich at Diocese of Bacolod, Philippines, Bacolod City, Philippines 6100 PH - A Great Man

Former President visits the 'Great Man'

'HE WAS A GREAT MAN' "Fortich's leadership made people aware of what true Christians should be. He practised what he taught, I am thankful to the Lord for making this great man a part of our lives and a model of exemplary Christian witnessing," Navarra said. Rivas said Fortich, although not responding to feeding and suffering from renal failure towards the end, was kept going by a strong heart. Fortich was a real pastor and shepherd of his flock, I have not met any one like him in my life, he said. He is the kind of bishop needed by the Church today, Rivas said. Fortich was "a holy man who lived a scandal-free frugal life, always ready to answer any pastoral call; a man who was what a bishop should-be, a father to his priests and people and a man who bridged the gap between rich and poor," a statement from the priests of the Diocese of Bacolod said yesterday. "It is hard to imagine a bishop more loved than Bishop Fortich. His passing will be great sorrow to all his people and his memory will inspire us all to work for a church which is mother to all, especially the poor," the statement said.

(Back)