In a statement, dela Cruz said he will need all the prayers for him to be a successful shepherd of the Intramuros-based minor basilica and cathedral.
“To the community of the Manila Cathedral, though I am fearful, I am also excited to be with you soon. I ask you to pray for me that I may be a good shepherd after the heart of Jesus Christ,” said dela Cruz.
“Please continue praying for me as I go to my new and very challenging assignment,” he added.
The Manila Cathedral is deemed the mother of all churches, cathedrals and basilicas in the Philippines.
In accepting his new assignment, the priest thanked Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula for entrusting the post to him.
“(This is) a responsibility which I take with humility. I pray that the Lord will give me the wisdom and the heart to lead His people,” said dela Cruz.
He also thanked his former parishioners in San Fernando de Dilao Parish in Paco, where he served for more than 12 years.
“Through you, I experienced the loving embrace of God. With you, I faced the challenges of the ministry with faith. You are no longer just parishioners, you have become friends in the Lord,” said dela Cruz.
On Thursday, the Archdiocese of Manila implemented a major reshuffle of its clergy numbering about 200.
Dela Cruz replaced Fr. Regie Malicdem, who was named chaplain at the chapels of Landmark and SM Malls in Makati City.
The reshuffle is the first major one under the leadership of Cardinal Advincula, who was installed as Manila Archbishop back on June 24, 2021. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)