Manila, Oct. 11 -- The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Saturday urged the faithful to join a collective act of penance and prayer after the country was struck by a series of calamities including typhoons, volcanic eruptions, fires and earthquakes.

In Circular No. 25-14, CBCP president Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David asked the people to pray for the nation's renewal, and to wear white every Sunday in October and November, as well as display white ribbons in homes, churches and public spaces.

"Let our white garments be a symbol of the purity we seek for our land and our hearts. May this season of prayer and repentance lead us to hope, healing and the restoration of our common life in truth and justice," he said.

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