The Friar Question by Editor

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Dec 19, 1900

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 26, No. 51.

The Friar Question.

By Editor

The long drawn-out struggle of the Filipinos was a protest against Spanish misrule. And included in this misrule was the politico-ecclesiastical power of the Roman Catholic Church. In the uprisings against Spain the friars have been either killed or driven from their stations. But now Archbishop Chapelle is trying to re-instate them, with the hope that the American Government will protect them. Against their re-establishment is naturally loud protest from the natives, and before fixing a precedent, Judge Taft, of the American commission, is taking a mass of testimony from the Filipinos regarding the question. This testimony is unanimous in condemnation of the conduct of the friars, who had limitless political and religious powers. It now remains to be seen just how far the governmental principle of protection for its subjects will be carried in forcing upon a people religious masters that are not wanted.