Darkness meets devotion the day the calendar is marked January 9th. It starts early for the devotees of the Black Nazarene as they gather at Manila’s Quirino Grandstand before the break of dawn, with thousands lining up for a chance to kiss and kneel before the image of the Nazareno.
These Catholic faithful also walk barefoot on the streets of Manila, immersing themselves in a sea of people to wipe the Nazareno image with their handtowels and clothes during translacion. The practice is believed to bring miracles and good fortune in the lives of the believers.
See the Feast of the Black Nazarene in photos:
A father and child attended the mass before the grand Black Nazarene procession.
A devotee showing off his Black Nazarene handkerchief. It is believed that when the image is touched, good luck and blessings are bestowed.
A miniature statue of the Black Nazarene is being passed to the devotees seated on top of the waiting shed.
A devotee trying to get out of the so-called “agos”, which translates to wave. In the sea of devotees, one is forced to go with the direction of the crowd. Others raise their hands to call for help and devotees will pull you away from the chaotic crowd.
The devotion is shared even to the youngest members of the family
Many devotees sacrificed their safety just to touch the Black Nazarene image.
Devotees taking a rest after carrying the image
The practice of “sumulong,” or carrying the statue, is done by people of different backgrounds, age, gender, but only of one faith.
CARLOS BENEDICK ARCAYAN HAS LIVED HIS ENTIRE EXISTENCE WITNESSING LIFE UNFOLD IN THE STREETS OF MANILA. HE AIMS TO CAPTURE THE MUNDANE MOTION OF THE CITY.
