There were no vampires, devils, zombies or ghouls during Halloween, at least inside the St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Tagbilaran City where saints went marching in.
The Diocese of Tagbilaran held the “Parade of Saints” on Thursday, the eve of the widely observed All Saints’ Day, as part of its stand against the traditional wearing of scary costumes and other popular Halloween horror practices, said Fr. Algerio Paña, chancellor of the diocese.
According to Paña, 47 children participated in the activity and dressed up as saints. They marched from the entrance of the over century-old cathedral to the altar.
“Ang mga bata atong gisul-uban og mga sinina sa santos. Usa ka bata, usa ka santo iyang giportray aron mailhan sa mga taw na mao diay ni ang tinuod na kasaulogan ang All Saints’ Day, dili diay ang Halloween na secular kaayo, nag-portray ta og mga ungo, mga wakwak,” Paña said.
Bishop Abet Uy then led a Holy Mass which also culminated the Rosary month at the cathedral after the parade.
In a statement, Uy said that the All Saints’ Day is meant to honor not just those declared saints by the Catholic Church, but also those who have done good deeds while still alive.
“Holiness is not a privilege of a chosen few, rather it is a call and the will of God for everyone,” said Uy, quoting Pope Francis. (RT)