Filipino Christianity: A Critical Look at Rituals Amidst Corruption and Poverty
In a thought-provoking essay, the author delves into the paradox of the Philippines as the only Christian nation in its region, yet grappling with widespread corruption and high poverty rates. The piece bluntly asserts that the Filipino brand of Christianity falls short of true Christian principles, emphasizing that rituals alone cannot secure God's mercy or favor.
The Disconnect Between Faith and Action
The essay highlights how many Filipinos engage in religious practices such as attending Mass, participating in sacraments, dancing in the Sinulog, or joining processions like the Black Nazarene. However, it argues that these acts are peripheral compared to the core teachings of Christ, who emphasized feeding the hungry and showing compassion. The author points out that Christianity is fundamentally about loving God through actions of love, justice, and compassion towards humanity and nature.
Sacraments as Encounters with God
Since Vatican II, sacraments have been defined as encounters with God, who resides in fellow humans and nature. The essay suggests that the best way to connect with God is by relating to others and creation with love and justice. Yet, it critiques the Philippine Catholic Church for celebrating large gatherings like the "sea of faith" in processions, while through a sociological lens, these are seen as a "sea of victims" of neglect and exploitation by political and economic leaders.
The Reality of Despair and Neglect
The author raises poignant questions about the motivations behind religious rituals. For instance, how many participants in the Black Nazarene procession despair of help from a corrupt government or a Church focused more on souls than suffering bodies? The essay stresses that no Mass, sacrament, or ritual can replace a relationship built on love, justice, and compassion for suffering humanity and exploited nature.
Prioritizing True Christian Acts
While not advocating for abandoning Mass or sacraments, the essay calls for prioritizing actions that make one a true follower of Christ. It attributes the nation's high corruption and poverty levels to a failure in performing these essential Christian acts. The core message is clear: the Filipino brand of Christianity, dominated by ritual practices, lacks the depth of love, justice, and compassion needed to address societal ills.
In conclusion, the essay challenges readers to reflect on why the Philippines remains corrupt and poor, suggesting that an overemphasis on peripheral rituals over essential acts of faith is to blame. It urges a shift towards a more authentic Christianity that actively promotes social justice and compassion in daily life.
