For one 75-year-old Filipina based in the “Big Apple,” the distance between New York and the Philippines is easily bridged by faith.
In a heart-touching story of devotion that spans decades and oceans, the New York-based senior has made it her life’s mission to return to her home province every year for the Lenten season. Despite the long-haul flights and the challenges of travel at her age, she insists that her Holy Week traditions are a non-negotiable part of her identity—a spiritual “homecoming” that keeps her connected to her roots and her community.
The journey is more than just a vacation; it is a pilgrimage. For many Filipinos living abroad, the “Panata” or solemn vow is a powerful motivator. This 75-year-old devotee participates in traditional rituals that have remained largely unchanged since her childhood—from the chanting of the Pasyon (the passion of Christ) to joining the local processions that wind through the dusty streets of her hometown.
“There is a different kind of peace when you pray in the church where you were baptized,” she shared, reflecting a sentiment held by many in the Filipino diaspora. While New York offers its own majestic cathedrals and religious services, she explains that the “soul” of the Filipino Lent—the shared communal grief and eventual joy of the Resurrection—is something that can only be fully experienced on Philippine soil.
One of the primary reasons for her persistent return is the desire to set an example for the younger generation. In an era of digital connectivity and shifting cultural values, she believes that the physical presence of elders during these traditions is vital. By coming home, she ensures that the specific nuances of their family’s Lenten observances are not lost to time or distance.
Her arrival is also a major event for her extended family. The gathering serves as a “reunion of faith,” where stories are swapped over traditional Lenten fare and the bonds of kinship are reinforced through shared prayer.
This story highlights the unique intersection of migration and religion in the Philippines. It underscores how the “Global Filipino” carries their culture and spirituality wherever they go, yet often feels an irresistible pull to return to the source during significant moments.
As she prepares to join the throngs of devotees this Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, her presence serves as a living testament to the endurance of Filipino traditions. For this 75-year-old traveler, the “Holy” in Holy Week is found in the familiar faces of her neighbors, the scent of the local flowers adorning the carrozas, and the unwavering belief that no matter how far one travels, the path of faith always leads back home.