The Manila Cathedral in Intramuros will soon have the image of the “Homeless Jesus," the famous sculpture of Timothy P. Schmalz.
Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula will unveil and bless the image on April 10, Palm Sunday, before the 10 a.m. Holy Mass at the patio of the Manila Cathedral.
"We thank the artist, Timothy Schmalz, for choosing the Manila Cathedral for his sculpture. Our deep gratitude also to the patron who generously donated the image, and to Mr. Eric S. Catabijan for facilitating this project," the Cathedral said in a Facebook post.
The “Homeless Jesus” is an artwork that depicts Jesus, identifiable by the wounds on his feet, sleeping on a street bench wrapped in a blanket.
Schmalz brought Jesus into a relatable human context to allow people to feel a greater closeness with and accessibility to Christ.
The Manila Cathedral said the sculpture will be unveiled in time for Holy Week, so the Catholic faithful can reflect using this visual prayer.
Palm Sunday is also celebrated in the country as “Alay-Kapwa Sunday” when special collections are dedicated for the poor.