By Mary Antoinette M Magallanes

With glee and enthusiasm, the whole nation primes and celebrates the pastoral visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines. The theme for the papal visit centered on “mercy and compassion” in solidarity with the survivors of the recent calamities that hit the country.

As a Filipino, Catholic and Jesuit community, Xavier University joins in the celebration of this historic event.

The University has set up numerous inspirational quotations of Pope Francis along the University Lane Covered Walk and there will also be a live feed of the Papal Mass from 3 to 5PM at the University Church on Jan 18.

The Pope’s 5-day PH travel itinerary includes meetings in Manila, a visit to Tacloban City and Palo in Leyte for a Eucharistic celebration, lunch with Supertyphoon Yolanda survivors and the blessing of the Pope Francis Center for the Poor.

Away from public view, Pope Francis went to an impromptu invitation to meet street children on Friday. Known as the “People’s Pope,” many have set their eyes on other surprise activities of the charismatic Church leader in the coming days.

The Pontiff is scheduled to depart on Jan 19, Monday.