‘Respect the Holy Mass,’ prelates remind poll bets

FILE: Taken a few hours before the vigil mass on Pentecost Sunday. (Photo By Michael Peligro/Flickr, CC BY-ND 2.0)

MANILA — Catholic priests on Friday reminded candidates in this year’s mid-term elections and their supporters to respect the celebration of the Holy Mass in areas where they are campaigning.

“Candidates should know how to respect the solemnity of liturgical celebrations in churches. It is not an appeal but more of a reminder to them to instruct their supporters to keep from making noise near churches, especially if there are Masses being celebrated,” Fr. Jerome Secillano of the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Parish in Sampaloc, Manila said in an interview.

Fr. Douglas Badong, Parochial Vicar of the Quiapo Church, said national and local bets should respect the hours where Masses are being held.

“Kung magsisimba man sila, make sure din na pagdadasal ang gagawin nila at hindi pagpapakita lang sa mga tao (If they are going to Church, they should make sure that they pray and not just for publicity),” Badong added.

The prelates made the remark as the campaign period for candidates running for local positions officially began Friday.

The candidates have 45 days to promote themselves in the areas where they are seeking to be elected.