Summer is just around the corner, not to mention the events
that come along with it. Now imagine yourself in a beach party and someone
swims wearing pajamas; totally uncool and inappropriate. The invite
specifically says “beach party” and yet some people still come unprepared.
This scene is no different than those that come to our
Church here in Taguig. Maria Reyna ng mga Apostol Parish is uniquely autonomous
in a way that it seeks to encourage its parishioners to wear white (dominated)
attire during service. Though it is not a crime not to wear white, it certainly
makes the unfortunate wearer a flashing target to lurking assassins. I still
recall myself getting uneventfully shot when I was still new here in the
community. Luckily, there are few others like me. Haha!
Good thing I discovered I still have some old white clothes! So
for the past 2 years, I alternately use my three white-ish shirts during
service! It’s brilliant! (I just hope no one gets to the conclusion of seeing
the purity of ones soul in the whiteness of his or her clothing) I know, it’s
not as white as snow but I would rather wear these than risk being
excommunicated! Just kidding!
Sadly after 2 years now, some people still stand out from
the crowd. I am not sure if they are new comers or could be affected by Alzheimer's
disease like me (I mean, the previous me). Perhaps, they are just unfortunate
enough not to own a white shirt or just playing lazy to look for it in their
closet. (sigh..)
Wearing white goes beyond parish rules. For me it’s a symbol
of being one - of being part of a community, a sense of belongingness and
unity. I learned to like this practice eventually. It has taught me how to be
simple. Also, I no longer waste time choosing what to wear every Sunday. On
some occasions though, those wearing colorful and lavish clothing still do
distract me. Wearing white may have its benefits. Maybe part of it is to easily
spot someone new in the congregation. But to those who have a choice yet still
do not wear white, I just pray they find it in them how to be humbled and find
beauty in simplicity. I know there is no written rule in the Catholic Church to
strictly wear white, but for the spirit of oneness in our little community, I
don't think it’s too much to ask.
Today is superbly special! I will be wearing my new white
shirt! Yes, it's my first time to buy a shirt for this occasion. It’s not much.
Really! Also, I still don't have plans in giving up my old "tanned"
shirts though. They still look very decent! I highly appreciate their “unweathered”
service thus extending their use for another two years. :-) (Who knows, maybe I
might use one going to the beach this summer).
Cheers!
Jimble
This might be a minor issue for those who can afford, but too much to ask I may say for those priority is to have a meal per day and go to church for thanksgiving. Good thing they still let non-whiters get inside the church :)
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