Palaspas not meant to ward off evil, says CBCP spokesman

MANILA, Philippines - An official of the Catholic Church yesterday sought to dispel old myths that the palaspas (palm frond) can be an amulet to drive away evil spirits.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) spokesman Monsignor Pedro Quitorio III said in essence and reality, the palaspas is “a symbol of welcoming Christ into our hearts and our lives.”

“While many religious objects are intended to strengthen and put deeper meaning to the liturgy, in the case of the palaspas, it does not ward off evil. It is just a symbol of welcoming Christ into our hearts and our lives when he enters into the will of God,” said Quitorio on the occasion of Palm Sunday today.

Jesus’ entrance to Jerusalem was highlighted by the jubilant waving of palm branches. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of the Holy Week.

Quitorio was amused about superstitious beliefs about the use of these leaves as talismans to drive away demons.

The use of palaspas has even found its way into the movies, such as horror flicks like Shake, Rattle and Roll where people repel a malevolent ghoul (manananggal) with a palaspas.

He said there are also those who think that putting the blessed palm leaves on their doors and windows will bring luck and bar evil spirits from entering their homes.

“What these people do not realize is that they should not put the palaspas on their doors and windows because the evil spirits are already inside their houses and now can not get out,” Quitorio said in jest.

Meanwhile, environment Secretary Lito Atienza reminded the public not to litter in summer destinations during the Holy week vacation.

Atienza issued the call in anticipation of the exodus of urban residents to rural areas during the long break, which could see an increase in the volume of garbage in traditional summer destinations.

Atienza advised people to bring their own trash bags and dispose of them properly. Another timely reminder is to limit the use of plastic bags and styropor disposables.

Meanwhile, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales urged Catholics to be extra generous and support Alay Kapwa Sunday or Caritas Sunday, the special day of the year designated to raise funds for social services and programs for the less fortunate and those in need. – With Perseus Echeminada