A STEP CLOSER TO IDOLATRY
As Catholic Christians, we do not believe in swerte, pampaswerte, good fortune, or good luck. Rather, we believe in the grace and mercy of God. -Rev. Fr. Ricarthy D. Macalino
The month of January is dedicated to the Feast of the Child Jesus for us Catholics, commonly known as Sr. Santo Niño, one of the most venerated images in our Church. It first arrived on our shores 500 years ago, and its devotion continues to flourish today.
However, our obsession and desire to take advantage of what others believe to be the most effective lead to our faith being tainted with fanaticism, particularly the devotion to unapproved images of Sr. Santo Niño, which brings us closer to idolatry.
While there are many approved images of Sr. Santo Niño, the following are definitely unapproved:
Santo Niñong Palaboy - The original iconographer stated it was created "for better effect and to reflect the poverty it originally represents." This was based on false claims of the image speaking to a group of street kids, which were later confirmed to be lies.
Santo Niño de la Suerte - It is said to attract financial luck, similar to the image of Buddha sitting with gold coins at its side.
Welcoming Santo Niño - Similar to Santo Niño de la Suerte, but purportedly attracts all kinds of luck.
Santo Niñong Hubad - This recent fake version of Santo Niño, sold mostly in thumb size for easy carrying, is said to be a lucky charm. It even comes with an Oracion (Latin for "prayer").
I know some people who have enshrined one of these unapproved images of Sr. Santo Niño. While they may be innocent, some might say, "ang importante naa tay pagtuo," which contradicts the seriousness one should have about their faith.
Resources are available to delve deeper and understand better. It is said in the Word of God, "faith without works is dead." If we've worked hard to achieve whatever we have, may we also invest the same energy in working on our faith.
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. - 1 Peter 5:8
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