Bishops, officials caution over crucifixion ritual

Manila: Influential Catholic bishops and health officials have both frowned on the popular practice of crucifixion and self-flagellation during Lent season.

They have said the practices are bad for both Christian theology and the health of those involved in the "paganistic" activities, which have attracted more tourists than devotees in many provinces around the country.

The Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has sought to dissuade people from taking their belief seriously with crucifixion and self-flagellation.

However, the church has desisted from openly airing its criticism as these rituals have become popular in many provinces.

Belief

"The Catholic Church in the Philippines is no longer like the Catholic Church that had condemned public crucifixion and flagellation when they became popular in the 13th and 14 century," explained Pastor Alfred Crespo. "There is really no need to repeat what happened to Christ in Golgotha 2,000 years ago, because salvation happened then. One needs belief more than good works to be saved nowadays."

Meanwhile, Health Secretary Francisco Duque gave several pointers to those who have been involved in crucifixion and self-flagellation.

"They should have shots of gamma globulin or anti-tetanus," said Duque.

"The six-inch nails they use for crucifixion must be thoroughly sterilised," said Duque, adding that those who underwent crucifixion and flagellation must take antibiotics while their wounds heal.

Advice

"The whips used by the flagellants must be clean and well-maintained," Duque said. "This advice is important to make sure that no one will land in the hospital due to tetanus or other infections that penitents might get in the process," said Duque. "We are not trying to go against the Lenten tradition here because whipping has somewhat become some form of 'atonement for sins' for some of us."

"These warnings could help prevent deaths among those who have maintained the ritual during the Lent season," said another health official.