A CATHOLIC bishop yesterday slammed healing priest Fr. Fernando Suarez, saying the Canadian-based priest is liable for breaking the Church’s doctrine of faith for healing by bypassing the head of the diocese where he holds sessions.

"In my own experience as the bishop of the diocese of Malolos, Fr. Suarez has never asked for my explicit permission," Malolos Bishop Jose Oliveros said.

He said he cancelled a scheduled session at the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy, also in Marilao, because no permission was sought.

Oliveros said he will file a formal complaint with the Companions of the Cross, Suarez’ congregation, for "coming to my diocese without following the norms stated by the doctrine of faith for healing."

He said his stand does not reflect on the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. The body was not able to discuss the matter at its 96th plenary assembly.

"We recognize the need of healing of the body through prayer… that is theologically sound. Now, whether this priest is an instrument of God for the healing of the body and soul… that is still to be determined," he said.

Suarez has been conducting healing sessions around the country since late last year and has drawn the sick and infirm. – Gerald Naval