Pray, not feast, on 'Undas' weekend, bishops urge

File Photo
File Photo

AS THE country observes All Saints’ and Souls’ Days, an official of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Wednesday, October 31, urged the public anew to resist turning their visits to cemeteries and columbaries into parties.

In a statement, CBCP Vice President Bishop Pablo David said paying respects for the dead does not mean turning it into a family party, which ultimately leads to tons of trash being left behind.

“The time-honored practice of remembering our deceased loved ones and the saints has turned into a de facto feast of litterbugs as cemetery guests leave tons of trash on what is supposed to be a sacred ground,” said David.

“Let us break away from littering and other disrespectful acts and celebrate Undas as a prayerful instead of a wasteful occasion. Cemeteries are a hallowed ground, not a dumping ground for leftovers and disposables,” the Kalookan bishop added.

David's appeal was seconded by Ozamiz Archbishop Martin Jumoad, who said the best way to observe the occasion is through prayer.

Jumoad said the departed souls are in need of prayers and would not want to see their resting places be filled with trash.

"The cemetery is a place to pray for the souls of our dear departed and not a place for party. Respect the place and do not just throw your garbage anywhere," said the prelate.

"Spend the day praying for them," added Jumoad.

Every November 1 and 2, Filipinos troop to cemeteries and columbaries to pay their respects to their dead loved ones by lighting candles, and offering flowers and even food.

The occasion, though, has often turned into an occasion for family reunions and get togethers, which result in piles of trash being left behind in cemeteries. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)

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