Hello everyone!
Hope all are safe and well! ☺️❤️🙏
I only used to hear about Quiapo on television. For many years, I would see it featured on the news or shows, and most recently it became even more famous because of the TV series Batang Quiapo starring Coco Martin. That’s why, when I finally arrived in Manila, I told myself I should visit this place at least once. And so, I did. ☺️
It was my first time in Quiapo, and of course the main purpose of my visit was to see and pray inside the famous Quiapo Church. I just rode a jeep going there, and when I got down, I used the overpass to cross to the side of the church. I had a photo on the overpass with the busy street and surrounded by buildings below me. The view really shows how alive and bustling Quiapo is.
When I reached the church itself, I felt a wave of solemnity. ❤️🙏
The Quiapo Church, officially called the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno - St. John the Baptist Parish (Archdiocese of Manila). It is one of the most popular Catholic churches in the Philippines. Many Filipinos from different places come here to pray, especially because of the image of the Black Nazarene, which is believed to be miraculous. The church is big and beautiful inside, its high ceilings, stained glass windows, and golden altar give it such a holy atmosphere. 🙏
The moment I entered, I could already feel the strong faith of the people around me. Everyone had their quiet moments of prayer, just like I did. 🙏
I prayed not only for myself but also for the special someone in my life. I prayed that his papers will finally be processed so he can go abroad and work. I know not everyone around us understands our relationship, but in my heart I lifted everything to God, asking for guidance, peace, and for things to fall into place in His time. I also prayed that someday, people close to us will learn to accept and respect what we have. 🙏
What’s amazing about Quiapo is that it’s not just a church but also a place of deep devotion. Every year, millions of devotees join the Feast of the Black Nazarene every January 9, a massive procession where people walk barefoot carrying the image of the Black Nazarene through the streets of Manila. It’s one of the largest religious gatherings in the country, showing how strong Filipino faith really is. ☺️
Outside the church, the scene changes completely. Vendors line the streets, selling candles, rosaries, religious items, herbal medicines, clothes, and even street food. It’s noisy, colorful, and full of life. The contrast is so striking, the solemn peace inside the church, and the lively chaos outside.
My first time in Quiapo will always be memorable. It wasn’t just about seeing a famous place I used to only watch on TV,it was about experiencing the devotion of the people, offering my personal prayers, and feeling a part of something much bigger. 🙏
Have a Blessed Sunday everyone! 😀😀😀💖💖💖
Thank You Lord for the blessings and love!
Be grateful in every little/simple things and you’ll find happiness you ever wanted! 😀😀😀
Everyday is worth to be grateful of!
Praying for the safety and wellness of all.
Heal Our Land Oh God!
Lovelots, @shikika