Filipino ”

Christianity begins at home. Both parents will carefully make their common choice & decision on who’s the most deserving to stand as godparents during baptism. They will serve as second, faith-loving parents to the child throughout his/her whole life. Godparents can be one or as many as 5 or more. Huge responsibilities are placed upon them since they will serve as guides and guardians of the children throughout their life.

Several Christian traditions and practices play a very important part in Filipinos. Christmas is one of the most awaited and celebrated holidays. Filipinos start to observe the special day on what we call the “Ber months” (SeptemberOctober-November-December). As a matter of fact, I think we are the only country that starts celebrating it as early as September.

It is the time when every home gets decorated. The whole family putting their decors together. The streets lit up with lanterns made up in a variety of ways, from wood to metal, covered with paper or Capiz shells, native in the country, which are whitish, the translucent shell is also used in making lamp shades and decorative articles.

Catholics will have daily evening or early morning masses that run from the 16th until the day itself on the 25th. This is one way of preparing for the birth of Jesus, whom we believe, had delivered us, and saved the world from our sins.

During Christmas itself, as most children around the world are excited about, is the opening of presents. Part of our tradition that’s unique is taking the children after mass to their Godparents, whose hands will be kissed to receive the spiritual blessing and at the same time, the gifts, most kids are anticipating, which is cash money.

During Spanish rule, another social tradition that we acquired was the celebration of “Fiestas”, a Spanish word that means feasts. It is an event close to Thanksgiving in the U.S. All towns are usually named after saints with their birthdays being honored by preparing home-cooked foods, then inviting friends and families to join them usually for lunch or dinner. The hosts will offer guests food to take home before they leave, which they call “pabaon” (takeout).

One can never underestimate how Filipinos show their hospitality that others can never resist. Like an unexpected guest, whether a friend or a family, who knocks at the door and will get invited to join them especially if it’s time for a meal. When it’s too late at night for that person to go home, chances are he’ll be offered to stay to sleep over. Most families will even offer their main bedroom for them to sleep in.

Another kind gesture innate to us is saying “po” as a sign of respect, especially to someone older than you. Holding the door for someone behind you or giving up your seat or your place in line, in a train, bus, or room, to a woman, child, or elderly.

The effects of foreign occupation and colonization of our country brought about some of these rich traditions but at the same time, generated a sense of unity to pull people closer together to fight and eventually achieve freedom. In today’s world of hate, conflicts, and disunity, these are the same set of values that make every Filipino stand proud and connected to each other not only in the country but everywhere else in the world.

The Depth is a space for faithbased leaders and individuals to share their thoughts, guidance, encouragement, what they’re witnessing, and more. To contribute, send your article ideas to thewell@ bewellpbc.org with “The Depth” in the subject line.