Manila, Philippines, Mar 30, 2010 / 01:15 am
Responding to acts of extreme corporal mortification during Holy Week, Catholic bishops in the Philippines have discouraged practices such as self-flagellation and crucifixion in favor of more moderate observances.
“The real expression of Christian faith during Lent is through repentance and self- denial,” Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez told Radio Veritas.
Bishop Rolando Tirona also expressed disapproval of self-flagellation and crucifixion by Catholic penitents, calling them “expressions of superstitious beliefs” that are usually done “out of the need for money and for tourism purposes which is totally wrong.”
“The Lenten season is a sacred celebration for reflection and repentance and not for money-making. But you can’t judge them. But if it is done out of tourism, that is unacceptable. That is deception,” he commented, according to the Manila Bulletin.
The prelate said during Holy Week it is enough to remember the life and death of Jesus Christ through fasting, abstinence, prayer, reflection and almsgiving.