Cardinal Marcello Semeraro emphasized the profound impact of popular piety, stating that it allows individuals to “encounter the flesh of Christ.” Speaking at the Congress of Brotherhoods and Popular Piety in Seville, Spain, the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints highlighted the enduring significance of public displays of faith, such as processions, even for those who do not identify as believers.
Cardinal Semeraro underscored the vital role of popular piety in strengthening Christian faith, describing it as a powerful channel for transmitting religious beliefs. “walking to shrines and participating in demonstrations of popular piety is in itself inviting others. It is indeed a gesture of evangelization of the Christian people,” he explained,emphasizing that these acts serve as “true catechesis” and possess a remarkable evangelizing force.
“the processions take us back to the church,” Cardinal Semeraro asserted. “The processions with images of saints encourage us to follow their example,” he added, referencing the Episcopal Conference of southern Spain’s dedication to exploring the theme of popular Catholicism in the region.
Drawing upon papal teachings, Cardinal Semeraro highlighted the profound connection between the people and the suffering Christ during significant Holy Week rituals, especially those celebrated in Seville. “in the great rites of Holy Week, such as those of Seville, the people ‘identifies with the suffering Christ,'” he quoted. “Many excluded, ignored, impoverished people cling to the love that God has for them and reminds them of their dignity. They find the tenderness and love of God in the face of Mary.”
A multiplicative Effect
Cardinal Semeraro believes these expressions of faith serve as a powerful means of proclaiming Jesus “with a multiplicative effect,” as many individuals who rarely attend church return to their communities for the feast of their patron saint. He firmly believes that popular piety is an invaluable instrument for nurturing faith.
He cautioned against underestimating the significance of popular piety,characterizing it as ”a theological place” for the new evangelization. Cardinal Semeraro even suggested that the people themselves become evangelizers through these practices. “It is a reality in permanent development,” he remarked,acknowledging the social work undertaken by brotherhoods and emphasizing “how much remains to be done in the field of solidarity” to support those in need.
Cardinal Semeraro also stressed the importance of distinguishing between religious exercises and liturgy, noting that acts of piety find their rightful place outside the Eucharist while emphasizing the paramount importance of the Mass in making Sunday “the Lord’s day.”
Expressing his honor at participating in the congress, Cardinal Semeraro was introduced by Bishop Rafael Sornoza of Cádiz. Bishop Sornoza provided a warm introduction, highlighting Cardinal Semeraro’s openness, his penchant for dialog, his love of music, his close friendship with Pope Francis, and his appreciation for paella.
## Interview with Cardinal Semeraro on the Power of Popular Piety
**World Today News:** Your eminence, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. At the recent Congress of Brotherhoods and Popular Piety in Seville, you emphasized the profound power of popular piety. Could you elaborate on what you mean by that term and its significance in today’s world?
**Cardinal Semeraro:** Thank you for having me.When we speak of popular piety, we are referencing the diverse ways in which ordinary people express their faith in Jesus Christ – through processions, pilgrimages, feasts, devotional acts, and the veneration of saints. These expressions may appear simple, even rudimentary to some, but they are deeply rooted in centuries of tradition and carry immense spiritual weight.
**World Today News:** You mentioned that popular piety allows individuals to “encounter the flesh of Christ.” Could you expand on this concept?
**Cardinal Semeraro:** Absolutely. For many, especially those who may not be deeply engaged with formal religious practices, these public displays of faith offer a tangible connection to the divine. Witnessing a procession, participating in a novena, touching a sacred relic – these experiences engage the senses, stirring emotions and awakening a sense of the sacred that transcends intellectual understanding.
**World Today News:** how does popular piety strengthen Christian faith, particularly in a world that is often skeptical of customary beliefs?
**Cardinal Semeraro:** Popular piety is a powerful antidote to secularism and individualism.By participating in communal acts of worship and devotion, individuals connect with something larger than themselves, experiencing a sense of belonging and shared belief.The collective nature of these practices fosters a sense of community and solidarity, reminding people that they are not alone in their faith journey.
**World Today News:** Some might argue that these expressions of faith are outdated, even superstitious. How would you respond to that criticism?
**Cardinal Semeraro:** While it is important to guard against blind adherence to tradition or superstition, we must also recognize the profound spiritual needs that popular piety fulfills. Even for those who do not identify as believers, these public displays of faith can offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human experience, fostering cultural understanding and recognition for diverse expressions of spirituality.
**World Today News:** how can we ensure that popular piety remains relevant and vibrant for future generations?
**Cardinal Semeraro:** I believe the key lies in rediscovering the beauty and power of these traditions, making them accessible and meaningful for younger generations. By incorporating modern technology, music, and art into these practices, we can bridge the gap between the ancient and the contemporary, ensuring that popular piety continues to serve as a vital source of faith and inspiration for generations to come.
**World Today News:** Thank you again, Your Eminence, for sharing your insights with us.
