Capiz Archbishop Jose Advincula, former bishop of San Carlos in Negros Occidental, said Monday, October 26, that his appointment as cardinal by Pope Francis came as a surprise.
Advincula said was informed of his appointment as cardinal by two priests at 7:30 p.m. Sunday because he did have his cellular phone with him.
He was surprised as it never occurred to him that he would be named a cardinal, and there was no information that he was even being considered for the post, Advincula said.
At first he thought there could have been a mistake as there are four other bishops in Panay with Jose as their first names.
But soon he was receiving text messages and posts were appearing on social media that he was indeed appointed cardinal, he said.
Advincula thanked God and the pope for his appointment that he said is a huge responsibility.
Perhaps he was appointed to the post in recognition of the work of the Archdiocese of Capiz and its priests in strengthening the faith of the people in the Lord, he said.
He said he is praying for continued grace and help in carrying out the work for the Lord.
Pope Francis announced the elevation of Advincula to cardinal at a consistory on November 28, during his Sunday Angelus.
Advincula is the ninth Filipino cardinal, following cardinals Orlando Quevedo, Luis Antonio Tagle, Gaudencio Rosales, Jose Sanchez, Ricardo Vidal, Jaime Sin, Julio Rosales and Rufino Santos.
Advincula was ordained priest of Capiz on April 14, 1976, appointed Bishop of San Carlos on July 25, 2001 and was consecrated on September 8 of the same year.
On Nov. 9, 2011, Pope Benedict XVI elevated Advincula to Archbishop of Capiz.*