Bishops in India’s Kerala state have asked Catholics to celebrate parish feasts in an eco-friendly manner and avoid commercializing them.

Parishes should avoid expensive firework displays, parades and pageants during such celebrations, said a circular from the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC), which will be read in parishes during Masses on July 4.

The 12-point guidelines state that feasts should be conducted in an environment-friendly manner, limiting the use of plastic and conserving energy as far as possible.

“Feasts are celebrated in memory of saints who have led a simple life. So we have decided to curb lavish celebrations of feasts,” said council spokesperson Father Stephen Alathara.

Over the years, commercial firms had begun sponsoring feast programs in an attempt to advertise themselves, said Syro-Malabar Church spokesperson Father Paul Thelakat.

“Now sometimes commercial interests supersede spiritual interests in parish programs," he said, adding that it was necessary to check this "dangerous tendency."

The guidelines state that parishes should not invite bishops from other dioceses for feasts without prior permission from the diocesan tribunal.

Parishes should also follow civil laws and local regulations in conducting feasts and processions, the guidelines say.

The Kerala High Court had recently banned processions that obstruct roads.

Green activists say the bishops’ instructions are timely and would help protect the environment.

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