From Spooky to Holy

More than tradition, the parade of saints has become a way of evangelization for the parishioners of San Isidro Labrador Parish in Catalunan Grande. It is one that is done in the eyes of faith.

The parade is to counter the usual horrific images and costumes during Halloween. All Souls Day is believed to be the day when the souls of the dead return to their homes. People, especially the baptized, would never think of their dead coming home in spooky looks. But rather, it is a solemn commemoration of all the faithful departed. It is to honor the dead whose life is valued through memories. Moreso, the All Saints Day is the feast of saints, reminding the faithful of their lives offered to God.

This October, SILP had the Gallery of Saints, “Read & Treat”, Divine Costume Play (Cosplay) and the Holy Rosary Month culmination.

39 Gagmayng Kristohanong Katilingban (GKK) of SILP had their patron saints images on exhibit in the Gallery of Saints at the Parish Covered Court last October29-November 1. Along with the exhibit, the GKKs gave out treats such as candies, chocolates, biscuits, etc. to children with their baskets or bags after they have read of the faith, life and works of the saints.

On October 31 at 5:30 in the morning, there was a recitation of the Holy Rosary and a Eucharistic Celebration to culminate the Rosary Month; at 4:00 in the afternoon was the Cosplay of children ages 6-12. The children were in character as they paraded and showcased their costumes.

“Let us teach and learn about our faith to nurture and really grow in the understanding of being a Christian; show our children that All Saints and All Souls days are feasts of good souls; Our activities this October were intended to show our love and respect to our beloved dead and all the saints,” Loreta Juares, SILP Parish Pastoral Coordinator said. (Leah Pasaporte Ibañez)