Following the Black Nazarene
The first few days of January are always busy for Filipino Catholics, especially for those whose devotion is toward the Black Nazarene, or the Nuestro Padre Hesus Nazareno. This is because every Jan. 9, the Traslacion is held—a procession to commemorate the first transfer of the image of the Black Nazarene from Intramuros to Quiapo Church back in 1787.
Millions of devotees flock to the City of Manila, following a procession that spans around seven kilometers, from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church. The longest procession was recorded last year, running for more than 20 hours. This massive scale has earned the Traslacion the distinction of being one of the biggest Filipino fiestas known in the whole world.
Miracles, healing, and sacrifice
Many Filipino Catholics’ devotion to the Nazareno is attributed to the miracles and healing that the Black Nazarene has blessed them with. Many also participate in the Traslacion and do acts of sacrifice (such as walking barefoot or while kneeling) as a “panata” or sacred promise as a way to identify with Christ’s suffering—especially since the Nazareno depicts Jesus kneeling as he carries the cross.
The statue of the Black Nazarene was carved out of mesquite wood by an unknown carver from Mexico, brought to Manila by the Augustinian Recollect Friars in 1606 through the Mexico-Manila Galleon Trade.
Although the statue has commissioned replicas, the original statue remains preserved to this day, having survived fires in 1791 and 1929, earthquakes in 1645 and 1863, and the bombing of Manila in 1945.
Activities in celebration of the Nazareno this week
This Jan. 8, morning masses are scheduled at Quiapo Church every hour from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and at 12:15 p.m., followed by fiesta masses every hour from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Meanwhile, at the Quirino Grandstand, a band parade will start at 3 p.m., Panalangin sa Takipsilim at 5 p.m., followed by the vigil program.
On Jan. 9, the day of the Traslacion, and coincidentally, Friday—also known as Quiapo Day—masses are scheduled every hour at Quiapo Church from 12 a.m. to 11 p.m. At the Quirino Grandstand, the Misa Mayor led by Bishop of Balanga Most Rev. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr., D.D., will happen at 12 a.m. The vigil program continues at 1 a.m., followed by the Panalangin sa Bukang Liwayway.
