"Oratio imperata" is mandated or obligatory prayer, which is added to the prayers prescribed by the Pope or bishop in church rituals.

With the country's huge problems, we've been hearing a lot about it these days. Through "oratio," the bishop rallies the people "to unite in prayer" for public good.

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The new "oratio" seeks to ward off typhoons. Ordered by Cardinal Vidal to start last Sunday in all Cebu Archdiocese churches, this year's prayer asks God to stop the floods.

In 1998 and 2007, the "oratio" asked for rains to drench our lands because of the El Niño phenomenon. Flipping requests is for the prayer to fit the need of a specific season and region.

Confusing heaven

What may confuse heaven to which the barrage of prayers is directed is when one archdiocese asks for rain while another wants none of it.

One supposes that God picks which prayers to heed or defer. Put if you can Mayor Tomas Osmeña and congressman wannabe Atan Guardo in one chapel. Amid a clash of petitions, God decides whether He'll grant Tomas longer life or a House seat and give Atan profits in his vitamin business or an elective post. Or both, if He decides to be generous.

Besides agricultural concerns and pestilence--usual "oratio" staple--a mandatory prayer can be issued, as the bishops did in 2004, to ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten Filipino voters.

Were the Filipinos so enlightened? Maybe not, but they can try again in 2010.

Cardinal Vidal may even tuck in a clause seeking divine guidance for politicians so they can trade barbs without impeding progress or grating people's nerves.

(paseares@yahoo.com)