Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy has announced that the public can expect “big” celebrations for the local church’s centennial anniversary, along with the possibility of the Pope’s attendance. The Archdiocese of Cebu marked its 92nd anniversary on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, since its elevation as an archdiocese.
State of the Archdiocese Address
During a press conference on April 28, hours before presenting his State of the Archdiocese Address, Uy shared his vision for the future. “Can you imagine a hundred years of grace? This is more than just a celebration,” he said. The archbishop vowed to deliver an annual state address to track the archdiocese’s plans and progress.
Hope for Papal Visit
Uy expressed his prayers that Pope Leo XIV may also be present during or even earlier than the 2034 centennial celebration. He also prayed for the beatification of Bishop Teofilo Camomot. The archbishop noted that the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has been sending invitations to the pope to visit the country, describing the invitation as “open,” allowing the pope to decide whenever he wants to visit.
“Open invitation para siya ra gyud ang atoang tagaan og freedom for the right time sa iyahang pagduaw diri sa Cebu,” Uy explained.
Preparations for 2034
For the 2034 jubilee year, Uy acknowledged that no detailed plans have yet been made by the Coordinating Council for Synodal Transformation (C-Cost). The C-Cost is the core group composed of clergy and lay leaders tasked with planning, implementing, and evaluating programs across parishes. Uy said it will be C-Cost that will prepare programs leading up to 2034.
A Fully Alive Church
Uy clarified that “big” celebration may not refer to grandeur but to the entire involvement of the Archdiocese, especially the public. “By that time, atong iampo nga anang panahona ang atoang Archdiocese of Cebu mahimo gyud siyang fully alive church,” he said. He described a fully alive church as one where people have grasped their faith, celebrated it with joy, and witnessed and lived their faith. These are the elements of a fully alive church.
