Preparations for one of the Philippines' most significant religious events are in full swing, with a record number of sacred items receiving blessings. The Quiapo Church in Manila has reported that more than 3,000 replica images of the Jesus Nazareno and banners from various devotional groups were blessed in a single day, setting a new precedent for the annual feast.
Record-Breaking Blessing Ceremony for Nazareno Replicas
Official data released by the Quiapo Church reveals a significant surge in participation for this year's preparatory rites. On Saturday, January 3, 2025, a total of 3,338 balangay banners and replica images of the Jesus Nazareno were blessed in a ceremony held in the City of Manila. This number marks a dramatic increase from the previous year, where 1,100 items participated in the blessing activity.
The solemn event, which is a key preparatory activity for the Feast of the Jesus Nazareno on January 9, commenced at 1:40 in the afternoon. It was led by Infanta Bishop Dave Dean Capucao and concluded at 7:55 in the evening, spanning over six hours to accommodate the massive number of items presented by devotees.
Archbishop Advincula Praises Humility of 'Nameless' Devotees
As the novena masses continued, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula presided over the fifth day of prayers on Sunday. In his homily delivered at the Quiapo Church, Cardinal Advincula took a moment to commend the profound humility displayed by the faithful.
He highlighted the "nameless" nature of countless devotees who perform acts of sacrifice without seeking recognition. "Many of you devotees are nameless in the eyes of society. No fancy titles, no recognition. But your faith is very clear," Advincula stated. He described the scene at Quiapo, where devotees are ready to walk, offer, and endure sacrifices purely out of love for the Lord.
"When you hold the rope of the carriage, you do not shout 'look at me.' When you walk barefoot or on your knees, you do not say 'praise me.' What your heart shouts is only one: Jesus must be exalted," the Archbishop added, capturing the essence of the devotion.
A Call to Emulate Selfless Devotion
Cardinal Advincula framed this display of humility as a powerful model for personal conversion. He urged everyone to move away from pride and self-centeredness, allowing Christ to be raised in their lives. The Archbishop emphasized that true devotion is characterized by selfless giving and service.
"True devotion is knowing how to give without needing to be recognized, knowing how to serve without seeking praise, and knowing how to love others without asking for anything in return," Advincula concluded. His message reinforces the core spiritual values that define the Feast of the Jesus Nazareno, transforming it from a large-scale event into a profound personal journey for millions of Filipino Catholics.
The record number of blessed items and the Archbishop's reflective homily set a deeply spiritual tone for the upcoming feast, expected to draw millions of devotees to the streets of Manila in a vibrant display of faith and tradition.
