Boycott
A religious group from the Saint Therese parish in Paradise is boycotting the annual pilgrimage to the Father Laval shrine (source La Vie Catholique). Why? Read on as we develop the reasons.
Every year, many people make a pilgrimage to this shrine in honour of this saintly and famous person. The revered Father Laval is almost a national hero. He is associated with the aftermath of slavery on the island and his service to the people. The shrine is also associated with healings. More information can be read on the history and life of Father Laval on this link.
Having given the above short introduction on the person Father Laval and on the traditional annual pilgrimage why the boycott ? According to the protesters there are multiple reasons.
We must view the situation in the light of the Covid-19 restrictions. Firstly, the imposed registration to be able to access the religious shrine. The manner adopted for the registration through a government controlled online appointment website. Protesters fear that the registration data could be used, by the authorities, for a hidden agenda. The data could easily provide personal information on who is visiting the shrine. Secondly, the requirement to register is considered as an interference of freedom of conscience and a human rights violation.
Furthermore, in the context of freedom of religion the imposed restrictions of only 50 persons in an assembly is deplored. In contrast, in shopping malls, supermarkets and public transport there are well over 50 persons at any one time. Most religious buildings have the capacity to permit larger numbers and still maintain distancing but are nevertheless restricted.
As with the situation in many countries today it is all about control. The situation has given free reign to the authorities to impose restrictions under the guise of a pandemic crisis. Control of the population for other agendas which can be economic, political or in the religion sphere.
Regarding the voice of religious authority in Paradise the order seems to be one of radio silence. No protest from the Diocese nor from the country’s Council of Religions. The latter seems to have no ambition other than being politically correct. We live in strange and difficult times. There is a need to be aware of the dangers of misuse of power by those who can amend legislation at will for their own agendas.