Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 1:01am
Philippines discourages self-crucifiers
Philippines officials are doing their best to discourage zealous Catholics from practicing self-flagellation and crucifixion, which are regularly seen in the country. According to the Manila Times, at least 23 people plan to perform their own imitations of the Crucifixion and many others will whip themselves until they bleed on Good Friday.
These annual practices, although frowned upon by Church authorities, have become a regular expression of penitence and religious fervor, Catholic World News reported Thursday.
Health secretary Francisco Duque told reporters that his office is "not trying to go against the Lenten tradition," recognizing that those who plan to crucify themselves are unlikely to be dissuaded from the ritual. The health ministry sent out a directive, however, telling people they should receive a tetanus shot and sterilize the nails that are used in the spectacle to avoid the risk of tetanus.
These annual practices, although frowned upon by Church authorities, have become a regular expression of penitence and religious fervor, Catholic World News reported Thursday.
Health secretary Francisco Duque told reporters that his office is "not trying to go against the Lenten tradition," recognizing that those who plan to crucify themselves are unlikely to be dissuaded from the ritual. The health ministry sent out a directive, however, telling people they should receive a tetanus shot and sterilize the nails that are used in the spectacle to avoid the risk of tetanus.