'TOL VIEWS
Senator Francis Tolentino
Just earlier this week, the Philippines celebrated the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene — a yearly religious event in our country, where millions of devotees gather to participate in the traslación – a grand procession of the statue of the Black Nazarene through the streets of Quiapo, Manila.
The statue of the Black Nazarene, which depicts Jesus Christ carrying the cross, is considered by many to be miraculous, and is said to have healing powers. The feast, which takes place on Jan. 9, is one of the most important religious observances in the Philippines, and has a rich history and cultural significance.
The story of the Black Nazarene began in the 17th century, when a Spanish priest brought the statue from Mexico to the Philippines. It has been said that folk tradition attributes the dark color of the statute due to the smoke and soot from the candles that were used during its transport on a ship.
After the statue arrived in the Philippines, it quickly gained a reputation for being miraculous, and soon many people began visiting the church to see it and to ask for blessings and healing. In time, the devotion to the Black Nazarene grew so large that a grand procession, or traslación, was organized to take place every year on Jan. 9th.
The traslación is a grand religious and cultural event that is attended by millions of people from all over the Philippines, and is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. But it has not been held for three years because of the pandemic. The procession started at the Quirino Grandstand, and went through several streets in Quiapo, before returning to the Quiapo Church.
Devotees carried life-size replicas of the statue on their shoulders and marched through the streets, praying and singing hymns. The procession usually lasted for hours and sometimes until nightfall. This feast is not only a religious observance, but it is also a cultural event that brought together people from all walks of life. It is an expression of faith and is a testament to the loyalty and devotion of the Filipino people.
In conclusion, the Feast of the Black Nazarene is an event that is rooted in history and culture. The statue of the Black Nazarene has been venerated by millions of Filipinos for centuries. It brings together people from all over the country to participate in a grand celebration of faith, devotion, and community. It is an event that continues to be deeply ingrained in Filipino culture and will continue to be an important event for the years to come.
Viva Seńor Nazareno!