NO LESS than the head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has come to the defense of Judas Iscariot, who was an apostle-turned-betrayer of Jesus Christ.
In a radio interview, CBCP President Bishop Pablo David said he is not in favor of having "unChristian" practices and traditions directed at Judas Iscariot saying it must cease to continue.
"There are still some provinces that, up to now, have a morbid tradition of hanging Judas, fill him up with fireworks, then light it up. It is like a public execution that is morbid. I think it is very unChristian," said David.
"To those still doing it, please stop. The Church does not endorse it. Nobody said you should publicly execute Judas Iscariot," he added.
The Kalookan prelate said this is because such a practice or tradition is not a good example to the younger generation of Catholics.
"Its theme is akin to having revenge. It is violent. Can you imagine what will be instilled in the minds of the youth?" stressed David.
The bishop also pointed how the faithful should realize that Judas Iscariot was repentful over his betrayal of Jesus Christ.
"We have been very judgemental towards Judas Iscariot. What is more important is he was sorry for what he did, tried to return the money, and admitted that he was wrong," said David.
According to the Bible, Judas Iscariot is one of the original 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ.
He, however, betrayed Jesus to the Sanhedrin by kissing Him on the cheek, which led to the Latter's arrest, in exchange for 30 pieces of silver.
But after learning that Jesus was to be crucified, Judas attempted to return the silver and subsequently hanged himself.
In modern times, Judas Iscariot's name has been used synonymously with acts of betrayal or being a traitor. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)