Our Sto. Niño Devotion

This is one of the most popular devotions in our Catholic tradition. The word “popular”, which comes from Latin word “populus = people”, reflects the subjects of the devotion who are called “Sto. Nino devotees”. And they number in the array of thousands if not millions.. The word also brings to mind the immediate thought of cultural activities connected with Sto Nino like the Atiatihan (Kalibo City), Dinagyang (Iloilo City) and Sinulog ( Cebu City).

The strong appeal of this devotion comes from both its spiritual(faith) and cultural elements, and the reported miracles of healing. The huge number of devotees who flock to and pray at the many Sto. Nino shrines around the country as well the thousands who watch and participate in the street presentations speak much about the Practice, not necessarily the Quality, of the devotion. Without proper and adequate pastoral catechesis and education of the huge crowds, the devotion can turn into fanaticism. This seems to be happening to the popular devotion to the Black Nazarene. Even the cultural aspects of the Atiatihan, Dinagyang and Sinulog have already become fanatically commercialized!

There is much to be desired in the state of devotional practices in our country. This is one reason why our practice of the faith through devotion of images has not helped in the moral transformation of Filipino society and culture.

            The praises and petitions which are general contents of devotional prayers together with meditations on the spiritual values and  virtues should lead to Imitation or putting into practice of these lessons for behavior. This is what Vatican II document on the Liturgy admonishes about devotions. Renewal therefore of faith in our basic ecclesial communities (BECs or GKKs) should be based on the fundamental principles of the Council.