During a Sunday Mass at the Santa María De La Anunciación University Parish, Monsignor Carlos Tomás Morel Diplán, called on Dominicans to reclaim the spiritual essence of Christmas, urging a shift away from materialism toward family unity and social integrity.
Morel Diplan was named Santo Domingo coadjutor bishop in November 2025. The role gives Morel Diplan control of the Santo Domingo Diocese and places him in the capacity to replace current Archbishop of Santo Domingo Francisco Ozoria. The latter is expected to resign when reaching 75 years next year.
In advance, Pope Leo passed on to Monsignor Morel administrative and financial capacities for the Archbishop Office of the capital city and Santo Domingo municipalities. The Pope also designated Father Manuel Ruiz to a new diocese created in Santo Domingo East with autonomy over this new area. Previously, Ozoria was in charge of all municipalities in Greater Santo Domingo.
Speaking at the Catholic University of Santo Domingo (UCSD), Monsignor Morel emphasized that the holiday season should be a time for deep personal and collective reflection. He noted that Dominican society currently faces a pressing need for “unity, tranquility, and responsibility.”
The Bishop reminded the congregation that the birth of Jesus serves as a mandate for personal accountability, particularly as an example for the younger generation.
“The birth of the Child Jesus calls us to bear witness to seriousness and responsibility, especially before children and adolescents,” he stated. He further encouraged citizens to celebrate within the family circle, explicitly advising against public conflicts that disrupt social peace.
In a pointed address to both public and private sector officials, the Bishop stressed the importance of honest service. Following a year marred by numerous corruption allegations, he urged leaders to accept their roles with a heightened sense of conscience.
He specifically highlighted the recent crisis involving Senasa, where thousands of citizens were denied entitled health services despite paying for insurance. The Bishop described the situation as a source of “great pain and helplessness” for the Dominican people.
“Those who manage State resources must act as true public servants and good administrators,” the Bishop asserted, “guaranteeing that funds for health, education, and nutrition reach those who need them most.”
Extending his message to public safety, the Bishop issued a stern warning against driving under the influence of alcohol or illicit substances. He urged the public to avoid street-side celebrations that endanger innocent lives.
“There are many innocent, hardworking people on the streets,” he remarked, “and they should not be affected by the irresponsible actions of others.”
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Listin Diario
23 December 2025