Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon is requesting the City Government of Bacolod to shorten its curfew hours so they can accommodate the traditional observance of the Aguinaldo masses.
In his letter to Mayor Evelio Leonardia, dated November 12, Buzon said that with the coming of December and with the Church doing preparation for the Christmas season, the Diocese would like the city government to review its existing curfew hours in order that they could accommodate the traditional observance of the Aguinaldo masses, which is a revered and established custom among the people.
Buzon has suggested that the existing curfew hours, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. be shortened instead to 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. so they can offer more early morning masses to accommodate churchgoers, and prevent the over-crowding of churches.
“At least, in this set-up, we can schedule two Aguinaldo masses daily, one as early as 3:30 a.m. and another at 5 a.m.,” he said.
“The Diocese believes that in this difficult time our people need, more than ever, the Christmas spirit and the Yultide cheer. Let us then offer the Bacolodnons the hope and joy that the Aguinaldo Season brings” Buzon added.
The Bishop also conveyed the appreciation of the Diocese to the city government for having facilitated their requests in a number of occasions during this pandemic.
“The working relation established so far between the Office of the City Mayor and the Office of the Bishop in this time of public health emergency has greatly assured our people that their welfare is truly our primary concern and that religious gatherings, as long as health protocols are strictly observed, can continue” Buzon added.*CGS
