Friday, October 05, 2007 (Philippines)

Pets are blessed as the Catholic Church honors St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of the animals and ecology. Francis made it a habit to invoke birds and other animals to praise and love their Creator. Fr. Rey Talaugon of Capitol Parish in Cebu City yesterday conducted the ritual. (Sun.star photo/Amper Campaña) THE Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office defended itself from the criticisms after clearing Fr. Benedicto Ejares of acts of lasciviousness, child abuse and sexual harassment. The Crusade Against Violence (CAV) described the resolution as “unfair.” “So what happened to the testimonies of the children? Just because he is a priest they will not charge him? This will follow the case against Fr. Jose Belciña where the victim just accepted payment. We respect the Catholic Church, but the church should also respect justice,” CAV Visayas head Thelma Chiong said. [full story]