In a significant move to protect the revered over 400-year-old image of the Black Nazarene, the Traslacion committee has decided to encase it in glass for the upcoming traditional procession on January 9. This decision comes as part of the preparations for the procession, which is resuming after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee’s initiative aims to prevent damage to the sacred image while accommodating the spiritual needs of devotees.
The glass case around the Black Nazarene will have a portion of the cross exposed, allowing devotees who wish to touch it to do so. This measure addresses both the preservation of the image and the traditional practices of the followers. Father Jesus Madrid Jr., the Parochial Vicar of Quiapo Church, emphasized the necessity of this approach, citing the need to prevent overcrowding and physical damage to the image, a concern heightened by the massive turnout of devotees in previous years.
In preparation for the event, the committee has also inspected the procession route from the Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church, ensuring the safety of the devotees by checking for potential hazards like hanging cables, branches, and open manholes. Additionally, Quiapo Church will host a “Paghalik” event at the Quirino Grandstand from January 6 to January 9, following the 6 p.m. Mass, allowing devotees to venerate the image in a controlled and respectful environment.
The Traslacion committee’s thoughtful measures reflect a deep understanding of the cultural and religious significance of the Black Nazarene procession, balancing the need for preservation with the spiritual traditions of the Filipino Catholic community.