Letter to the Editor — Political preaching in the guise of prayer

Please allow me to react to the interfaith and multi-sectoral coalition's plan to go to the streets next week to denounce efforts by the Arroyo administration to amend the constitution.

Archbishop Oscar Cruz denied that he and the bishops were among the organizers of the rally. The bishops and other prelates however have committed to attend the rally, which will coincide with the celebration of Independence Day on June 12. Archbishop Cruz said the protest would be "more of a prayer rally." One would not know exactly what kind of protest a coalition will do if he is not part of the organizers.

I am just a lay member of Christ's faithful and I don't have the theological and biblical expertise of Archbishop Cruz. However, I don't have to be a bishop and holy to understand this particular passage of the Holy Bible that says, "When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites! They love to stand up and pray in houses of worship and on the street corners so that everyone will see them . . . when you pray, go to your room, close the door and pray to your Father who is unseen . . ." (Matthew 6:5-6).

I expect our esteemed bishops to inspire the laity to grow in holiness and righteousness. I don't expect them to frustrate us with their political preaching in the guise of prayer.

I hope that this letter will see print in your prestigious newspaper in order for the laity to bring forward its views on the stand of the clergy on strictly political matters.

Neil L. Papas
San Isidro
San Fernando, Cebu