LITERARY: Devotion admist pandemic by: Jenny Guanzon Sarahan

Nothing can really hinder the faith of the Christians to God --- not even the COVID-19 pandemic. People influxes the churches after almost 2 years of not being able to attend face-to-face mass services. They are also excited for the traditional 'Simbang Gabi" that will start on December 16.

Though it is still a risk to go out because of new COVID-19 variant, some people do not hesitate to go out just to attend a mass. Some are even from far places going to the churches that they used to go to before the pandemic. It is how deep the devotion of Filipinos is.

The churches are making sure that everyone is following the protocols and they are advising that when going to church. They advise devotees to not forget to bring their vaccination cards. They are strict to avoid the spread of COVID-19. They will be even more strict for the upcoming ‘simbang gabi,’ especially because a lot of people are expected to go because last year, it has only been done online.

The simbang gabi has been divided into two schedules, which is at 5:00 am in the morning that starts on December 16 and 7:00 pm that be on December 15. It is implemented to avoid the overcrowding of the churches.

It says that instead of devotion, people also have to remember the health protocols. Health is very important especially these times. God’s guidance is always there, but people also have to do their part.

“Hindi lang kami natatakot dahil takot na takot kami, kaya lang sabi ko nga eh, malakas ang aming panata at paniniwala sa Mahal na Birhen at ipagpapatuloy parin namin ang aming pag simba tuwing Miyerkules. Magdo-doble ingat na nga lang kami,” says one of the devotees interviewed in the news.

Published by: Ysabella Charis Vaila 

Date published: December 6, 2021

Time published: 11:25 am