Feast of the black Nazarene

Every January 9, masses of filipino people flock towards the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, commonly known as Quiapo church in Manila, to take part in what's possibly one of the greatest processions in the world.

History
The image of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno de Quiapo was carved by an anonymous mexican carpenter and brought to the Philippines in 1606 by a galleon from Acapulco, Mexico which is believed to have been razed by a fire, causing the images' dark complexion.

Since then the image has been moved from three churches, before finally settling to its present location sometime between 1767 and 1790.

The feast
The Translacion (the transfer of the image to Quiapo) started around late 16th - 17th century, imitating Jesus' journey to Mount Calvary. Traditionally, the feast starts with a mass at 6AM, then another one in the afternoon which signifies the start of the procession.

The feast attracts millions of filipinos, most especially those who are poor and sick, in belief that their diseases would be cured, and that they would be given a miracle.

The experience
Being part of the feast last year, I was able to experience the great and surreal feeling of God's presence while standing amidst a sea of strangers, as if saying "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed".

Good morning, sunshine!

I love waking up to the sight of Manila bay's famed sunset; feeling the warm, gentle rays slowly crawling up the room. Smelling the sweet, intoxicating scent of coffee and hearing oh-so common traffic blare from the streets below.