Thrilled by God’s Holiness

November is the month in which we Catholics commemorate the souls and saints in the Church. But as we roam around the malls and other business establishments, we see decorations of cobwebs, skulls, witches, bats, Jack-O-Lantern and even catchy advertisements of horror movies about lost spirits, ghosts hunting, “lamang lupa” and other scary creatures that scare us. As I asked the young people about them, they answered me with a smile saying, “we are thrilled talking about them and the stories gave us a different kind feeling.” I realized no wonder others made business out of them.

However with curiosity, I searched the meaning of Halloween celebration. It said that it originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints; soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating sweet treats. (History.com)

Moreover, in this modern world where horror movies are promoted, there is a need to bring back the real meaning and importance of the celebration. I truly appreciate and commend through the initiative of the Archdiocesan Commission in Social Communication (ACSC) in organizing an event in Abreeza Mall on the Gallery of Saints last Oct. 22-30, 2018. This event brought me to what God promised as His Words in 1 Peter 1:16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy”. As Christians, we are all invited to share His holiness in us. Instead of saying, “pagkat ako ay tao lamang…” when we are confronted with our weaknesses and sinfulness, we are all invited to gaze at Christ as triumphant over the cross and conquered evil in the world. If we are true and real followers of Christ, though we may be ordinary and sinful, God can use us for His glory as we cooperate to His grace. We are all called to share in His holiness… Is it more exciting, thrilling and more lasting?

So, the next time you are thrilled to watch horror movies and enjoyed scary images, why not read stories of your favorite saints, for holiness can be contagious! (S. Ma. Leah M. Zozobrado, RVM)