Signs and Symbols of the Liturgy

Following our reflection on “Sacramentalized and/or Evangelized”, we have to realize the supreme importance of the signs and symbols used in our liturgical celebrations especially during the Paschal or Easter Triduum. They are regulateď by the Church liturgical laws.

Common sense reminds us that these external signs and symbols are visible to our eyes, audible to our ears and tangible to our touch. These are the language, objects, movements of celebrants and people, their gestures and actions which belong to our Filipino and local culture. They must therefore be clear and intelligible because they carry and project internal ideas or meanings about divine mysteries. And meaningful ideas affect our behavior and life. They help our body, spirit and soul commune or connect with the mystery of God’s presence as we celebrate.

Hence we realize the supreme challenge of making CLEAR AND INTELLIGIBLE these signs and symbols. This can be done by good and well-prepared Pastoral Catechesis or Seminar on the signs and symbols of the liturgy especially of Holy Week. For this purpose we need to study the Instructions contained in the Roman Missal and to use these in our creative and correct adaptation of the liturgy into our local culture. It is supremely necessary to avoid the temptation to be overly ostentatious, colorful, dramatic and entertaining. Solemnity, simplicity and sobriety easily enhance the sacredness and holiness of the rites and rituals of the Church liturgy.