Retired Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said “healing priest” Father Fernando Suarez will be missed particularly for his work for the poor.
“His work for the poor will certainly be missed,” he said in an interview Wednesday.
The prelate said Suarez was often supportive of the local church in Batangas.
“Fr. Suarez, who hails from Butong, Taal, Batangas, although not belonging to the Archdiocesan Clergy of Lipa, had often been supportive of the local Church in Batangas,” said Arguelles.
“I pray that he will be rewarded for his great plans and achievement for the Church and for the least among the faithful,” he added.
For his part, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, said that the death of Suarez was a reminder to everyone that “our life is always in the hands of God.”
“We come and go into this world. What is important is we are prepared to go home any time,” he said.
Suarez died Tuesday due to heart attack. He was 52.
His remains will temporarily lie at Heritage Park, Taguig Chapels 2,3,4 until 6 a.m. of Feb. 6 as he will be transferred to his hometown in Batangas.
Meanwhile, the Missionaries of Mary Mother of the Poor Inc (MMMP), the group Suarez founded, said in lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to be made only under the name of the group.
“This is to continue the ministry he has started with his missionary congregation,” said the group in a Facebook post. (Leslie Ann Aquino)
