Vidal: Venerate, don’t idolize Calungsod

A SENIOR prelate of Cebu called on the faithful Saturday to venerate Blessed Pedro Calungsod, but should not resort to the practice of idolatry.

“Conviction like courage is contagious. His young age did not stop Blessed Pedro from being holy,” said Msgr. Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, archbishop Emeritus of Cebu, in his homily at the Blessed Calungsod’s feast day celebration in the Calungsod Shrine.

“Say yes to becoming a saint and a faithful Catholic like Blessed Pedro Calungsod,” Vidal declared.

Vidal said Cebuanos knew little about Calungsod, but “came together in 2001 as one family to venerate him.” “Now, the world joins us in happiness as we celebrate this feast,” he  said.

Vidal reminded Christians, especially Calungsod’s pilgrims, to follow “sound doctrine and strict discipline” in practicing their devotion.

The soon-to-be saint’s photographs and icons should not be used as objects of idolatry, the prelate said.

The Cardinal referred to these objects as mere “visual aids.”

“Tabang lang na ang mga imahen para pagpalig-on sa atong pagtuo (The images only help in strengthening our faith),” Vidal said.

Vidal said Cebuanos should know about Calungsod and feel proud that the Christian martyr, catechist, acolyte and missionary’s roots can be traced from the Visayas region of the country.

Roman Catholics practice veneration as a special act of reverence and respect to saints, angels or a dead person who is being beatified. It is a type of honor distinct from the adoration that is exclusive to God alone.

Blessed Pedro Calungsod was beatified on March 5, 2001. After 11 years, he will be the second Filipino saint after St. Lorenzo Ruiz when he is scheduled to be canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21 this year.  /UP Intern Peter L. Romanillos