CBCP Asks 13-Year Old Girl Victim’s Mother to Forgive Priest Who Was Arrested for Attempted Sexual Abuse

PHILIPPINES
Philippine News Courier

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) spoke in connection with the priest who was arrested Friday night, July 28 in Marikina City for attempting to sexually abuse a 13-year old girl. The suspect was arrested in an entrapment operation, after the victim’s mother reported to the Marikina City police’s women and child protection department.

“As Christians, we are bound to forgive those who sin against us as we ask God to forgive our sins. So much so if the sin was not really committed.” Outgoing CBCP President Socrates Villegas said during his mass in his hometown Lingayen, Pangasinan, Sunday morning. He will be replaced by Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles this coming December 1.

And although he did not mention the name of Rev. Msgr. Arnel F. Lagarejos, who was arrested while he was on his way to a motel along with a pimp, Archbishop Soc Villegas reminded everyone that even priests are also tempted to commit sin. “No one is excuse for committing sins, even we priests are prone to commit mortal sins.” He added.

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