Argosy S. Nazareno
Politics during Lent
As the political campaign season unfolded during the Church’s Lenten season, some Church leaders lashed out at the hypocrisy of some politicians who promote themselves under the guise of “charity.” The priests tackled in their sermons some concerns such as poverty and environment but reserved their more ardent words for ordinary people whose struggles are worsened by some people’s “selfish” thirst for power. They reminded Catholics that Lent is a time for renewal, with special attention to the suffering of others, and helping them.
Politics is about the important business of governance and the affairs of the state. It is the business of supporting our democracy and all the rights which flow from it, including freedom of religion. Indeed, religious leaders should be encouraging their followers to pay attention to politics, participate in the process, and most certainly register and vote. Lent is one of several seasons in the liturgical life of the apostolic churches especially the Roman Catholic Church. It is a season of self-examination, penance, and special efforts to improve our practice of Christianity. I see no conflict between my religious exercises during this season and participating in political affairs, and I don’t think the politicians are “encroaching on holy ground” when they continue with the business of the state and with the business of our parliamentary processes. The majority of Filipinos are quite capable of conducting their politics with good cheer, not allowing it to divide them from their loved ones, friends, and fellow citizens who happen to have a different opinion. But in the social media stage of our Province, some scenes went beyond SPG. Are legal battles really necessary? People are sucked into the squabble yet some are just eating their popcorns.
Then, we should ask ourselves, for those of us interested in politics: why can’t we stop bickering in this season of lent and including the ceasefire as part of our fasting and penance? It seems I must start by asking honest questions about how the election is affecting each of these Lenten practices:
On Prayer, we should ask: How much do I pray for the well-being of our political system? Is my candidate at the center of my prayer this Lent, or is Jesus? Do I pray that my candidate dominate or humiliate their opponents? Or, instead, do I pray that all candidates work to promote the common good – ideas and solutions that benefit all people in our locality, province, and the entire country?
On Almsgiving, we should consider: How might I give to those truly in need? Who is in need in my community? How does giving connect with my prayer about the good of all?
On Fasting we should think: How much time do I spend thinking about the election? How does this compare to my thinking about others? While not ignoring the importance of politics for the good of our society, might I need to fast in some way from the bitter exchange of accusations and insults?
We must not think of ourselves but also for the next generation. This season is the time to reflect on what must be done to improve the situation in our Province and the entire country. God bless us all!