Thousands of Catholic devotees gathered late Thursday night to witness the traditional Good Friday procession of the Black Nazarene from the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno in Quiapo, Manila.
The annual act of faith began earlier than scheduled, with the image of the Black Nazarene leaving the church at around 11:35 p.m. on April 2—more than 20 minutes ahead of the planned midnight start.
The early release marked a slight adjustment compared to last year’s procession, which began at 11:15 p.m. on Maundy Thursday and lasted nearly 12 hours until 10:45 a.m. on Good Friday.
Devotees, including members of the Hijos del Nazareno, solemnly welcomed the image as it emerged from the church’s altar, marking the faithful’s observance of Good Friday—the commemoration of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ on the cross.
The sacred image was carried on the same carriage used during the Feast of the Jesus Nazarene in January.
Thousands of participants lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the revered image, while some devotees performed acts of sacrifice, including walking barefoot as a sign of penance and devotion.
Others extended assistance by distributing food and drinks, acting as “Good Samaritans” to fellow participants.
To ensure public safety, the Manila Police District (MPD) deployed approximately 3,200 personnel in and around the church premises.
Organizers from the Hijos del Nazareno reminded participants to maintain solemnity throughout the procession, emphasizing the sacred nature of the occasion.
The Hijos del Nazareno said that instead of applauding, devotees are encouraged to offer prayers and express sympathy for Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, emphasizing that silence is a more appropriate way to show respect for His death.
They also noted that shouting celebratory expressions such as “Mabuhay!” is inappropriate during the procession, as it contradicts the spirit of mourning and compassion that should be observed while reflecting on Christ’s suffering and death on the cross.
“Hindi lamang sa dalawang paalala nakatuon ang ating paggalang. Sa panahong ito ng pagpapakasakit ng Panginoon, nararapat na pairalin ang katahimikan, pagninilay, at taimtim na panalangin, bilang pakikiisa sa paghihirap para sa kaligtasan ng sangkatauhan,” the group added.
“Ang Biyernes Santo ay araw ng pagluluksa at libing. Sa halip, Ang katahimikan at taimtim na panalangin ang tunay na paraan ng paggalang sa kaniyang sakripisyo sa krus,” they noted.
As of this writing, the procession continues, with the carriage making its way along Concepcion Aguila Street.
