Masses may be suspended if flu spread worsens

MANILA, Philippines – The Catholic Church is condering (sic) suspending Masses should the spread of the A(H1N1) flu virus become worse in the Philippines – as a “last resort.”

But Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, along with some priests and parishioners, thinks the proposal unnecessary, according to Mariz Umali in her GMA Weekend Report aired on Sunday, shortly after midnight.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines made the announcement through Caloocan Bishop Deogracias Yñiguez.

They should suspend masses for contaminating people with Gerin Oil.

Cross-posted @ Verbal Razors.

Albay bishop challenges priests: restrain secularism, worldly sciences

LEGAZPI CITY, June 20, 2009—Bishop Administrator Lucilo B. Quiambao has challenged all the priests to restrain from secularism, worldly sciences and preserve virtues most relevant to them during the high mass held yesterday at St. Gregory the Great Cathedral, here.

I think priests should at least engage in secularism and “worldly” science (what other science is there?) if they are to be of any worth to society.

Mentioning virtues of meekness, prudence, respect and decorum must be observed and practiced in an effort to win the sinners and weak souls especially the children and women.

Wow, unbelievable! The church can’t seem to shed their misogynist tendancies. How can we take seriously the leaders of the church if they continue to view women as sinners (seductresses like Eve) and/or have weak souls (easily manipulated by talking snakes). And the children, those little ones who seduce pedophile priests with their charming innocence!

(Cross-posted from Verbal Razors)

We’re for natural family planning, says Antique governor

MANILA, June 23, 2009—The Catholic Church has found an ally in Antique Governor Salvacion Z. Perez when it comes to the issue of natural family planning.

Speaking to CBCPNews late Monday morning, Perez said she have been going around the province informing the people of the need to adopt the natural family planning.

While the “natural” method is useful, it cannot be the only method available to women. It is not as effective as condoms, pills, injectibles, or IUDs, nor can it prevent the spread of venereal diseases. It is sad to see that while the church is losing support from its own laity, self-serving politicians have taken the slack and are enforcing the church’s dogmas to their constituents.

(Cross-posted from Verbal Razors)

Registration for the First Filipino Freethinkers Forum is now open! Join us on February 28th from 1PM to 4PM (registration starts at 12NN) at the U-View in Fully Booked at 902 Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City. The topic will be: Practical Freethinking. The event will be free-of-charge, and food will be served. To confirm your attendance, please complete the following form and send it to rsvp@filipinofreethinkers.org:

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