Palma declines comment on Msgr. Garcia

CEBU Archbishop Jose Palma has declined to comment further on the issues involving a Cebuano priest who is facing probes in relation to a child abuse case and alleged involvement in illicit ivory trade.

He explained to Sun.Star Cebu that this is to give due respect to the legal and church procedures involved in such cases.

Despite the church’s silence and after the announcement that separate investigations are conducted by church and government agencies, statements of support continue to pour for Msgr. Cristobal Garcia.

The former Archdiocesan Commission on Worship chairman was also the business manager of the archdiocesan newsletter, founder of the Society of the Angels of Peace and the spiritual director of World Apostolate of Fatima or WAF and Bukas Loob sa Diyos (BLD).

Upon the directive of the Holy See, Palma suspended Garcia pending the investigation of a decades-old case in the United States.

Of strong faith

Vilma Gelbolingo, a WAF member, told Sun.Star Cebu in a text message that Garcia is “a man of strong faith, with true devotion to Mary, kind and sincere. I’ve learned in his teachings the value of sacrifice that would please our Lady and to live the virtues of Mama Mary.”

For Fr. Dennis Baricuatro, Msgr. Cris is a good mentor on liturgical services who is “very knowledgeable and available for clarifications and enlightenment.”

Dovie Montinola Sainz sent an email to Sun.Star Cebu, with a prayer, “I hope this message reaches Msgr. Cris Garcia.”

“My parents are ‘prayer warriors’ in my humble opinion because whenever there is a crisis in our lives, they light a candle and kneel down to pray.

This is something that you have taught them to do. I have been a witness to the many miracles that our Lord and Savior gave to our family and the people around us,” she said.

“Please continue being an inspiration to all who want to be close to God. I hope you will continue to guide more people to Him. You have more experience in doing this and I believe that you are guided by the Holy Spirit. May God continue to bless you with love and peace,” she added.

Dovie’s parents Mon and Baby Montinola also sent their message to the monsignor through Sun.Star Cebu, saying, “For all that they are saying about Msgr. Cris, for me, my wife, our children and grandchildren, he is a very good priest.”