Bishop warns against commercialization of Christmas

Christmas decorations abound in the different malls of Davao City and some are preparing decors and menu for their homes in this festive season of the year.

But the Auxiliary Bishop of Davao George B. Rimando said there is a danger of commercializing Christmas when everyone is too concerned with material things.

During his homily in the mass he officiated in the Kerygma Conference at the SMX Convention Center, December 1, the bishop said with the recent Typhoon Yolanda that hit the Visayas last November 8, it is good for the people to remember the victims who will celebrate Christmas in the typhoon-stricken areas where their homes were washed-out.

“Christmas is the time to go out and help the needy. The Archbishop of Davao even tells us to forego excessive Christmas parties,” he said.

As the entire Catholic Church is celebrating the season of Advent prior to Christmas, the bishop tells Catholics that Advent is the best time to prepare one’s heart and mind for the coming of the Lord, adding that it is a time to share the values of Christ like charity and forgiveness.

He even said Advent is a reminder for everyone not to procrastinate, adding: “Let us not wait for Christmas to change ourselves. Advent is a time for reconciliation.”

Bishop Rimando ended his homily by reminding the people of the value of sharing, saying “We cannot share Christ if we don’t have Him in our hearts. Let us sacrifice a little for others.”