Dear mindful reader,
I sincerely hope and pray that you and your family are safe and well in the aftermath of this devastating calamity.
An in-kind donation drive is actually ongoing here in Subic Freeport, in collaboration with the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce. Meanwhile, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority has also dispatched an 11-man team from the Fire Department led by Fire Chief Ranny Magno to assist the Bicol Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council or PDRRMC in its search and rescue mission.
In the same light, I take this opportunity to convey my appreciation and gratitude to everyone who would care to share whatever they have, however small, to alleviate the plight of calamity victims of Tropical Cyclone Kristine.
Now on to the topic.
I have decided to write about this because of this entire hoo-hah about a certain religious personality who seems to have invaded mainstream media, and whose huge following with “unquestioning conviction” is now subject of serious scandalous allegations.
For us to at least get a grip and understand the meaning of “unquestioning conviction,” allow me to share with you what “conviction” is in the context of a person’s beliefs. As Master Google puts it, conviction refers to a firmly held belief or opinion that signifies certainty and confidence in one's thoughts or principles. This can be rooted from a myriad of sources such as personal experiences, cultural heritage, religion, or family upbringing.
So, what then is “unquestioning conviction?” And why, even as we are blessed by the Divine Creator with minds to think objectively, do we still fall prey to the flowery preachings of, let’s just call him Papa Preacher or Papa P for easier reference, and his promises of going to heaven if his commandments are strictly adhered to?
The paradox of unquestioning conviction, therefore, may allude to the complex and often contradictory nature of bearing strong beliefs without question or doubt.
I have never given Papa P, nor the massive following he has, any thought, because to me, that is their own business, and I am in no position to raise an eyebrow, interrogate, judge, nor crucify any of them for their beliefs. To satisfy a curious mind as to why is he so beloved by his followers is what this article hopes to address. Only now that he occupies much time across the airwaves and in print media that I devote time to try to find reason, understand and analyze, in a way, how such “blind faith” as we can also probably refer to it happens.
From personal observations, I can merely hypothesize from the bits and pieces of information I have gathered about him, and the organization that he has founded. Though categorically I can say that from the 2 visits I had several years back, his place is truly majestic, beautiful and serene.
His devoted followers revere him for several reasons which perhaps stem from their beliefs and the teachings he promotes. His role as a religious leader appears to draw followers who seek spiritual guidance, a sense of community, and the belief in his divine anointing as the “Appointed Son of God”.
Having spoken to friends who follow him, they say he teaches a theology that emphasizes spiritual rebirth, divine power, and the importance of following his commandments in order to ensure their salvation and spiritual fulfillment.
They continue on by saying that his “enigmatic "charisma possesses the ability to attract and inspire people. The manner by which he communicates, his speaking style, public presence, projection, and the testimonies of his co-followers also seem to reinforce their beliefs and commitment.
In a third world country like ours, cultural factors such as a strong sense of faith, the desire for belonging, to be needed, and the yearning for religious explorations play a significant role in enticing followers.
I am not an expert nor a guru in this field. I am simply a regular citizen who has a 9 to 5 job, pays taxes, and wakes up each day repeating the monotony of my daily existence. My interest was merely sparked by the goings on and the mystery about him that continues to keep us all guessing. But one thing I do know and practice by heart is that respect for other people’s beliefs is essential for a harmonious and functioning society. A respectful attitude towards differing beliefs plays a significant role in cultivating a culture of tolerance, reducing conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence in diverse societies in this complex and mystical world we live in.
Just my thoughts dear readers. No pun intended.
Be safe everyone!
Love and light,
Iamempress22
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