No fake priests in cemeteries

CEBU – Unlike in other parts of the country, particularly in Metro Manila, Cebu is safe from the modus operandi of bogus priests common during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

No reports yet have reached Cebu Archdiocese Media Liaison officer, Msgr. Achilles Dakay on fake priests roaming around cemeteries here, reciting prayers for the dead, and blessing tombs for a fee.

Dakay issued the said statement after the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines yesterday warned the public to be wary of the scheme of those who use the name of the Lord for the wrong purposes.

In a CBCP website, a bishop described these fake priests to be going around cemeteries offering prayers for the dead in exchange for payment which is asked by saying it is actually a donation.

CBCP said there is no such commercialization of prayers for the dead mandated by the Roman Catholic Church.

It also said that people should not allow the memories of their loved ones to be used for misdeeds.

CBCP noted that with the increasing need for church services, especially in cemeteries, some people take the opportunity to make lucrative living by posing as priests.

Dakay, however said, that the diocese dispatches enough priests in cemeteries to officiate Holy Masses for the souls of those who already passed away.

Three Masses are offered on All Saints and All Souls Days, and just like all Masses, voluntary contributions are accepted. These donations, true to what they mean, will go to the parishes. – Jessica Ann Pareja/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)