MANILA, Philippines – Processions of children dressed as saints took the place of Halloween ahead of All Saints’ Day, November 1, in many Catholic parishes across the Philippines.
The processions took place as Catholic priests warned against observances of Halloween, which they associate with demonic activities.
Priests have reminded their flock that Halloween, before it became a celebration of scary ghosts and monsters, was originally celebrated as “All Hallows’ Eve.” It was, literally, the eve of the feast of “all hallows” or “all saints.”
Rappler faith chat room members shared the following snapshots from different parts of the country.
Children dress as saints for a procession held by the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral in Palo, Leyte, on the eve of All Saints’ Day on Thursday, October 31. Photo by Jake Capaycapay/OLTP SOCCOMChildren dress as saints during a procession held by the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish in Danao City, Cebu, in celebration of All Saints’ Day on Friday, November 1. Photo by John KeachChildren dress as saints during a procession held by the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish in Danao City, Cebu, in celebration of All Saints’ Day on Friday, November 1. Photo by John KeachChildren dressed as saints join a procession at the San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City on Thursday, October 31. Photo by Andrew AltarejosThe Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church holds its Parade of Saints 2024 on Saturday, October 26, in Barangay Bangkal, Makati City. Photos by Noel Guarte/OLFP SOCOM
Do you have photos of religious celebrations in your community? Share photos or stories in the faith chat room of the Rappler Communities app! – Rappler.com
