Kiss Baby Jesus

I'm not sure how this is called in Waray, but I think (not even sure too) this is the "Pahalik" in Tagalog. I seldom see this nowadays. But as a child, I always saw this ceremony (activity?) every Christmas Day.

This is that practice where, on Christmas Day, boys (sakristan) go around town carrying the image of Baby Jesus (reeking in the priest's cologne), for people to kiss. These boys usually come in threes or more. But the sure roles are/were: one boy carries the image of a cute baby, another boy carries and keeps ringing a hand bell, and yet another boy carrying a box or container for people to place money.

I said, my recollection tells me it happens on Christmas Day. But this was already the 27th, and Leyte Park is not a residence but a resort hotel! Ah well, maybe the boys have got too many houses to visit, since this is a capital city, or maybe the priest badly needs more funds, or the management of Leyte Park are very religious that they know about this so they invited the boys to pass, or, all of the above!

Anyway, I like the 'symbolism' in this activity. It says something like "hey people (especially children) come meet (remember) our Saviour, the Holy Infant Jesus (Sto. Niño) is born, and pay your respects.

Kaya meron silang dalang box para doon sa "pay" mo! Joke lang hehehe, donation box lang yan :)

Here were the boys walking along the length of Leyte Park's Veranda Restaurant..,

The first boy (far back in the picture) carries the Baby Jesus. Second boy is carrying the donation box, and the last boy (enamored by the swimming pool below), keeps ringing those bells on his right hand.

They're back from rounding the Veranda. This fourth boy, their companion, also interested in the pool!

The 4th boy (foreground) still mesmerized by the pool. The boy carrying Baby Jesus also 'distracted'.

And the boy with the money box also busy looking at the pool, unaware there's a hand from one of the diners doling out cash! I joked, they should ask the priest to let them swim in that pool after this 'stint'!

I followed them a bit.., then they were inside the restaurant (a girl putting money into the box)..,

The girl finally kisses the image that smells like the priest hehehe!

Joking aside, this (and other similar activities of all religions) is a nice reminder to us all.

Have a blessed year everyone!