Alcoy Parish clarifies stance on gambling, funeral masses
The Sta. Rosa de Lima Parish in Alcoy, Cebu, clarified its policy allowing families to choose between gambling and a funeral Mass during wakes.Summary
The Sta. Rosa de Lima Parish in Alcoy, Cebu, issued a statement addressing a viral post regarding gambling during funeral masses. The parish clarified that it does not forbid gambling or refuse funeral Masses, but instead allows families to choose between the two during a wake. However, the parish discourages gambling within the wake area, aligning with Catholic Social Teaching emphasizing respect for the deceased. The decision, made after years of dialogue and approved during the Parish Annual Assembly on August 15, 2023, aims to prioritize the sacredness of the Mass and the dignity of the deceased. The parish emphasized that it seeks to guide, not control, and debunked claims of contacting other parishes to deny funeral services, stating the choice rests with the family to reflect their faith.
(Source：SunStar Philippines)