UCA News
Contribute

Prelate demands prayer for reparation

Catholics told they must atone for 'repulsive work' of artist facing jail
Prelate demands prayer for reparation
Catholics pray during a Mass in front of the Cultural Center of the Philippines on Monday
Published: August 16, 2011 08:27 AM GMT
Updated: August 16, 2011 09:18 AM GMT

Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales of Manila yesterday instructed his flock to include in all Masses for one week a “prayer of reparation” for what he called the “sin of sacrilege and blasphemy” involving a controversial art exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. In a circular to the clergy, religious superiors and school directors, Archbishop Rosales also ordered a "Day of Penance" on August 26. “As a Church, we will kneel before our loving God to pray and seek reparation for this public sin. We will do this along with a ‘Prayer of Reparation'.” He said various lay groups have expressed strong sentiments against the work of artist Mideo Cruz, titled "Poleteismo." The exhibit sparked protests from Church leaders and politicians for juxtaposing religious images with clowns, Mickey Mouse ears and a bright red penis. The Manila prelate said the prayer must be recited in all Masses from August 21, the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, until August 28. He also encouraged everyone to “perform an act of penance or sacrifice” on that day, such as fasting or other forms of mortification “as an expression of remorse for the sins committed against God’s majesty.” He said that for Catholics and Christians, the offense "goes beyond visual senses" and "strikes into our souls." “The public exhibition of the repulsive work is sacrilege and blasphemy. It is a sin. It has deeply offended the Father, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Mother and our Church,” he said. Related reports: Artist to face criminal chargesArtists defend controversial exhibition

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia