DECORATIONS THAT SAVE CELINGS, WALLS, AND SOULS TOO

"Dear Kuya Jeff, I wanted to share my reflections on our recent pilgrimage. While it was physically demanding, it was undeniably enriching spiritually. During our visit to Morong Church, I couldn't help but notice a stone lion on the premises. Interestingly, a local mentioned that there used to be a pair of lions positioned in front of the church. This sparked my curiosity about their significance. Could they possibly relate to Feng Shui principles? I recall seeing similar stone lions at San Agustin Church in Intramuros. Are they symbolic of good fortune or perhaps serving as protective talismans? I'm eager to gain a deeper understanding. Once again, I extend my gratitude for organizing such a meaningful Lenten pilgrimage. I eagerly anticipate future journeys of faith." - Happy Pilgrim

​1. Gargoyles, terrifying and mythical creatures, are commonly seen adorning the exteriors of numerous gothic and baroque buildings and religious edifices. Their roles encompass embellishing the surroundings (ornamental), safeguarding the walls and rooftops (practical), and conveying spiritual lessons (cathechetical).

2. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Our sense of peace and harmony stems solely from Jesus Christ. If we turn to feng shui for harmony in our surroundings, we risk idolizing it. We should not rely on feng shui to manipulate our environment for peace. In the Philippines, many old Spanish churches were constructed with the assistance of Chinese artisans. Despite the predominantly baroque and gothic architectural styles borrowed from the West, these artisans incorporated Eastern elements like stone lions or fu dogs. While these mythical creatures are believed in Buddhism to ward off evil and protect against misfortune, Spanish friars allowed their addition to the churches purely for decorative purposes, as they do not believe these items possess any inherent power. Examples of such ornaments can be found at the Parish and Diocesan Shrine of St. Jerome in Morong, Rizal, and the Church of St. Augustine in Intramuros, Manila. Decorative gargoyles of lions, crocodiles, and griffins can also be found in the exterior of Luneta Hotel, Manila.

3. Practically speaking, gargoyles function as ornamental water outlets designed to protect stone structures by directing rainwater away from walls and ceilings. The term "gargoyles" is believed to originate from the gurgling sound produced as rainwater flows through them. However, in contemporary usage, it encompasses various decorative stone carvings of creatures such as grotesques and bosses. Examples of these water spouts can be observed at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, and the Church of Mont Saint Michel in Normandy, France.

4. The third and final purpose serves as an educational tool in matters of faith. In a spiritual context, gargoyles were utilized to visually depict evil. During periods when literacy rates were low, the clergy required tangible representations of the horrors of hell to compel people towards the safety of the church sanctuary. This practice reinforced the belief that evil existed outside the church's confines, and that sanctity resided within. Gargoyles, positioned facing outward, symbolized demons desperately fleeing from the cathedral's roof or church entrance in a panic, echoing the biblical promise: "Upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it" (Matthew 16:18). Incorporating gargoyles into the exterior of buildings reinforced the notion that evil remained external to the church, while salvation was found within its walls. Presently, gargoyles serve as potent reminders of the reality of spiritual warfare. "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings" (1 Peter 5:8-9).