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St Jude's Novena-oldest copypasta?
There are many, many variations, one of which I saw in my newspaper's classified ads today. The idea is that you must publish it for it to work (some want it before or after it has worked). This reminds me of copypasta you see on online videos, except with a religious twist. I can't find any good info on it-all of it is ether "this works every time!" or "this is heresy," but no deep look at the phenomenon, like how old it is, how it started, etc. A guy in his 50s says that they've been around since he could remember, and he worked in newspapers. Anyone know about this?
1 Answer
- TriggerLv 79 years agoFavorite Answer
This HAS been around forever . .I'm in my mid 40s and remember seeing these ads in papers when I was a kid. What you call "copypasta" they used to call '"chain letters'" in the good old days. Usually how it reads is your prayer/wish will be granted if you forward the message or mail a copy of the letter to 20 other people, but if you don't, not only will you not get your request but you will suffer some kind of bad luck. E-mail has made it so much more efficient (and cheaper) to perpetuate. It makes one wonder how many people secretly believe in the efficacy of these superstitions while laughing at it to other people.
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From the Shrine of St. Jude's website.
"Some people receive chain letters promising good luck if they send copies of the letter to other people. The letters also threaten misfortune if the receiver does not send the copies or breaks the chain.
Whoever writes or sends these letters is acting out of superstition or fear. Perpetuating this superstition, out of a desire for money or out of fear, signals a lack of faith in the wisdom and goodness of God, and could do great harm to the faith and peace of mind of others.
Superstitious people think they can control God by the number of prayers said or letters sent. Faithful people know they are loved by God, and they trust in that love – not in "luck." Please destroy these letters. Do not be afraid. God does not play games with us."
