Lenten season in the time of new normal

Now that the restrictions have eased, one of the Lenten traditions that practicing Filipino Catholics anticipate is the Visita Iglesia – where they visit either seven or 14 churches every Maundy Thursday to pray the Way of the Cross and at the Altar of Repose.

Ces Navarro, 35, is one of the Filipino Catholics who annually observed the Lenten Season by visiting different churches every Maundy Thursday.

However, when COVID-19 virus spread around the world, Lenten traditions, which require social gatherings, were halted until 2021.

This situation saddened Navarro. “Dalawang taon kami hindi nakapag-Visita Iglesia dahil sa COVID pandemic. Nakakalungkot na hindi namin magagawa ang aming taunang pag vi-visita iglesia sa iba't ibang simbahan,” she said.

But this did not stop Navarro and her family from observing the yearly Lenten season by attending online masses and praying the Way of the Cross.

“Ang alternatibo naming ginawa ay nag online mass sa TV at nagdasal ng 14 Stations of the Cross,” she said.

Since the restrictions have been lifted, Navarro is optimistic about the observance of Lent this year.

“Natutuwa ako dahil sa wakas makakabisita na kami sa mga simbahan at magagawa na naming pamilya ang taunang Visita Iglesia,” she said.

Navarro is no longer hesitant in observing the Lenten traditions since she and her family are fully vaccinated with two booster shots.

“Medyo wala na naman takot sa COVID dahil mayroon naman na halos lahat bakuna ang tao. Maging kami ay kumpleto sa vaccine at booster,” she added.

As a precaution to observe against COVID-19, Navarro and her family will continue wearing masks and follow the restrictions advised in every area that they will visit.

This year’s Holy Week is scheduled from Apr. 2 to 8 while Easter Sunday is on Apr. 9.

by Carl Reyes