Pope Francis as the Lord's ambassador and representing 1.1 Billion Catholics worldwide kisses the statue of Baby Jesus in a demonstration of love and humility while leading Christmas Eve mass at the St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican on Dec. 24, 2013. He also prayed and sent his message of condolence and greetings of joy and peace to the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Leyte through Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Pinto. The pontiff's message was relayed by Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Pinto who officiated at a Christmas Mass at the Sto. Nino Church here yesterday. Archbishop Pinto also gave assurances that the Church will not forget the faithful, especially at this time of crisis. "Pope Francis brings his message of condolences and greetings of joy and peace. The church will not forget you, we are with you in this time of crisis." Archbishop Pinto said. Meanwhile employees and barangay officials of the city government of Tacloban celebrated their Christmas after receiving their productivity bonus enhancement incentive following the passage by the city council of its supplemental budget during a special session last December 19, 2013. The city council approved the release of around Php 12 Million for the Christmas incentives of it's employees.
