Priests to sprinkle dry ash over Catholics’ heads

CEBU, Philippines — Local church officials will follow the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’ directive to sprinkle dry ash on the heads of Catholics this Ash Wednesday instead of the traditional marking of their foreheads with wet ash.

This is in line with the safety measures to avoid the possible infection of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

But for Msgr. Ruben Labajo, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Cebu and parochial priest of the St. Francis of Assisi in Balamban, he would have wanted to do the traditional way if he had it his way. This, as for him, the act is supposed to be a “badlis,” a Cebuano term which means making a mark or line.

Labajo said it is best to take precaution but not to the point that it goes so far as breaking the tradition.

But because this is an order of the CBCP and the bishops, then Labajo said he will still yield to the order.

Labajo found an ally in Archbishop Jose Palma himself, who said that he, too, is in favor of doing the marking on the forehead. Still, Palma said he will also follow the instructions of the higher church authorities.

Earlier, the CBCP led by Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles came up with additional guidelines for preventing the spread of highly contagious COVID-19 as the Lenten season is fast approaching.

The faithful usually flock to churches during Lent, which starts on Ash Wednesday -- February 26 -- and ends on April 9. Lenten season is the 40-day preparation of Catholics for Easter Sunday and is considered an important observance by Catholics.

According to Valles, Catholics should refrain from kissing or touching the cross for veneration on Good Friday. They are instead asked to bow before the statue of Jesus Christ.

Back in January, the bishops’ assembly also discouraged churchgoers from holding hands when they pray “Our Father” during Mass.

In addition, the group likewise urged them not to shake hands with and peck somebody on the cheek (beso-beso) during the Sign of Peace. It also recommended that people receive communion using their hands. (FREEMAN)