Look! A Flying Priest!

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it the man of steel?

No!

It's the flying priest!

You could be forgiven for thinking now is the ideal time of year for miracles. Well, I'm not sure miracles necessarily need perfect timing or scheduled slots on a calendar. However, being Christmas does seem to lend itself, doesn't it? But alas, no, the flying priest was no miracle.

The ABC reports that Father Albert San Jose of the Our Lady of Miraculous Medal in the Laguna province, Manila, has been suspended. Why? Because he decided to perform part of the Eucharist while singing on a hoverboard, or segway board, as seems a better term (thanks Mr. Crowe).

Can't religion incorporate technology and social trends in it's rituals and practices, engaging their flock and maintaining their relevance?

I'm sure they can. But even I think it's a bit of a stretch to think this stunt makes the Eucharist seem a less powerful way to worship and more of a comedy skit. I'm torn over this, as, although not religious myself, I know some deeply religious people could view this as disrespectful. They have. These types reported this man to his Bishop, even though the performance does seem to have been done in good fun, with a gregarious spirit which he reportedly is known for.

Imagine being present, when the Father suddenly decides to hop on his hoverboard and glide around in time to the music. Head-bobbing, hip-twisting, fist-pumping and partying the night away. Let's get down and diggity, ha! 

It would have been entertaining and a bit of a reprieve from the usual hum drum of what would be a well-known ritual. But ritual has power and some tweaks rob them of their power. Like I said, I'm torn.

The gentleman in question apparently, according to the article, has now begun to reflect on his actions and realised they were inappropriate. No Madonna numbers in the near future then?

A part of me wonders, though, that while Church attendances and those identifying as Christian do seem to be reducing so quickly, perhaps incidents like these can be used to serve a larger purpose. Some much needed PR is needed, but then that has always been the case with the Church.

God bless Father Albert. Sometimes Priests Just Want To Have Fun -

I love a bit of Cyindi Lauper, don't you?!