Mae EscartinIt’s the time of the year again when Filipinos demonstrate their huge devotion to the Black Nazarene. Some years back, I got a chance to experience the Feast of the Black Nazarene first-hand. And it was one of my most unforgettable experience as a reporter.
A first-timer’s Black Nazarene experience
Feast of the Black Nazarene 2014
At first, I was terrified. Who wouldn’t? I heard it in the news, how people get squeezed in congested spaces, some collapse due to lack of oxygen. One word: stampede.
I kept wondering why many people are so devoted to this annual gathering – until I reached Quirino Grandstand while mass was ongoing. I felt the very powerful energy of devotees simultaneously and solemnly singing the song for the Black Nazarene.
Feast of the Black Nazarene 2014
While wandering in a maze of maroon-clad people, I observed how people were behaving differently. Some were holding candles, everyone held towels with arms opened wide as if to receive a shower of blessings.
Some were less animated. I saw people silently praying with tears rolling down their faces. And yet, almost everyone was screaming ‘Viva! Señor Nazareno!’ . I was amazed at this display of devotion.
Most devotees carried miniature replicas of the Nazarene. The male devotees were walking barefoot, imitating Jesus Christ when he climbed Mount Calvary.
When the procession started, it takes time just to transfer the Black Nazarene from the stage to the andas or the carriage because of the pool of people trying to ride the carriage. There are also official escorts of the Black Nazarene who are called mamamasan .
Feast of the Black Nazarene 2014
Devotees jostle just to grab hold of the rope tied to the carriage. The rope is made of thick abaca and about 50 meters long. It is believed to be miraculous and anyone who holds it will get healed of any sickness.
In 2014’s feast, organizers decided to have a week-long celebration to split the number of people who will join the procession. The celebration was said to have gathered one of the biggest crowd, numbering about 12 million.
I believe devotion, religious or otherwise, involves spiritual thinking. Whether in such a grand scale as the Black Nazarene feast or in the confines of a quiet corner, anyone can say a solemn prayer.
Feast of the Black Nazarene 2014
Reminders for Devotees this 2018
Every year the Quirino Grandstand, where Feast of the Black Nazarene is being held, was filled with millions of devotees from in and out of the country. Having said that, here are some pointers for those who would like to attend the Feast for even just once in their lifetime:
1. Stay hydrated
With all those people flocking in Quirino Granstand, the last you would want to happen is you to collapse in the middle of the Grand Parade. So, before going to the event, make sure to get ready. Drink lots of water prior, during and after the event. It’s much better if you stay hydrated even before you go to the Feast.
Envolve PeopleCare
The infographic above shows many ways on when and how you can enjoy drinking water. Drink as much as you can!
2. Do stretching before the parade
Some might ask, “Why do I have to do stretching before participating in the parade? I’ll just walk in there!” Yes, it’s true, you’ll just walk because of the density of people around you, BUT you’ll also experience squeezing your way through other people and some may unintentionally hurt you. That is why, it’s necessary to do simple stretching!
It’s just to warm up your muscles and flexibility, so your body will definitely be ready to conquer anything that may arise while you’re peacefully participating in the parade and even in the mass.
3. Eat
Other devotees do fasting before or during the event. You can also do that but you have to make sure that you won’t collapse when you do that. But if you don’t have to do fasting, make sure to eat before going. You can also bring a mini bag and put your candies, crackers and water in there.
4. Mind your belongings
Just like a reminder in any public gathering, please mind your own belongings and do not leave your things unattended. Always stay awake and highly sensitive with things happening around you.
5. Make sure to have an ID, your medical information and contact numbers with you
It is just in case you got lost during the whole festival, you’ll have your personal information with you. Parents are also advised not to brings kids to avoid them to get lost.
Here are other safety tips for the Feast of the Black Nazarene by the Philippine Red Cross:
Philippine Red Cross
Be in the know of the Feast of the Black Nazarene‘s schedule of activities and re-routing here.
