Lenten Rites in RP Like a Circus?

Time and again, whenever the Lenten is coming, many Filipinos are pretty excited for the long vacation brought by the Holy Week. For a Christian nation like the Philippines, it is a moment to reflect on the life of Jesus, the Son of God, His sufferings and triumphs as He saves the world from sin.

While others are simply enjoying the no work, no school spree to get out of their way to some beautiful beaches and places where they could relax and take a time out from the stresses of life in the metropolis.

But many might not know that it has been a tradition in many parts of the country to reenact the rituals of what Jesus has done in His way to the cross. A staged crucifixion known as the "cenaculo" is always held every Lent to showcase the bloody and pitiful sufferings of Christ.

As a true Christian believer, I don't agree for some who do this. It was not written in the Bible to reenact what Christ did. It is enough to ask forgiveness for our sins, seek His grace and do some penitent as a way of remembering what He did for humankind.

What's bugging me is that such traditional staging of Christ-like activities of Filipinos lashing their backs with bamboo sticks as they become wounded or nailing themselves to wooden crosses are like a circus since local spectators and other foreigners are mesmerized seeing these things happen. What is lost is the real essence of the observance of the Holy Week.

Such rituals are nothing if people are not learning why we celebrate the Lent. In the first place, some locals don't even have to do the reenactment. Not only that, the Catholic Church has even warned people not to make the Holy Week rites as an event of fun and a circus-like activity when some people would be clapping their hands as a person is nailed and raised on the cross.

The Health Department advised the ritual participants to take tetanus shots before being nailed to avoid infection.

People should not forget to recognize the solemnity of the Lent. Although some have made such rituals as their annual devotion, still they need to reflect on the real essence of doing such things. The Holy Week traditions should not be treated as a show.

The simple ways of celebrating the Lent is to reflect, pray and fast. Let the Holy Week be a reminder to all Christians about the sufferings and resurrection of the risen Christ.

Maynard Joseph Delfin finished AB Journalism (cum laude) at the University of Santo Tomas. He has worked as book editor, deskman, copy editor and research and publications officer in leading publishing and research companies in the Philippines. He helps charitable institutions in his country through freelance writing. You may send your assistance through paypal at marie223joe@yahoo.com to deliver more assistance to his chosen beneficiaries.

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