Catholic priests overseeing the Feast of Jesus Nazareno urged devotees to prioritize attending Mass despite long hours of procession and devotional practices.
Quiapo Church rector Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan reminded the faithful that the Eucharist is the highest form of Catholic worship, surpassing even the most physically demanding acts of devotion.
“The Mass is the highest form of worship,” Licuanan said at a news conference Wednesday. “Even if you join the procession for 24 hours or roll on the ground, it cannot equal one hour or even 45 minutes of Mass.”
The priest, however, acknowledged that many devotees draw comfort from physical expressions of faith, including touching the revered image that draws millions yearly.
“We recognize that some Catholics feel a certain consolation when they are able to touch the image,” he said, referring to the deep personal devotion associated with the centuries-old icon.
Similar reminder came from Fr. Robert Arellano, Traslacion 2026 spokesperson, who stressed attending Mass aside from joining the annual procession, which reenacts the image’s transfer through Manila’s streets.
“This is our invitation before attending the annual Traslacion — that every devotee should attend Mass, because this is the most important part of our celebration,” Arellano said.
He said the Eucharist is central to Catholic life, where believers hear the Word of God and receive Christ in Holy Communion.
“That is why we always say that even if you join the procession for 24 hours, it will never equal the celebration of the Holy Eucharist,” he said.
The Feast of Jesus Nazareno on Jan. 9 is among the Philippines’ largest religious gatherings, drawing millions of barefoot devotees seeking miracles.
Church officials have repeatedly urged devotees to balance popular devotions with participation in the sacraments central to Catholic faith.
As in previous years, major activities for the feast will be centered at Quiapo Church and the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
The traditional “pahalik” and prayer vigil at the grandstand will begin Wednesday evening after the 6 p.m. thanksgiving Mass for Traslacion volunteers.
At Quiapo Church, Masses will begin at 3 p.m. on Jan. 8, with at least 33 Masses scheduled until 11 p.m. on Jan. 9.
The Jan. 9 Traslacion from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church will begin at 5 a.m., hours after the midnight Mass that will be presided over by Bishop Rufino Sescon Jr of Balanga.
The procession of the image of Jesus Nazareno will follow the same route used during last year’s Traslacion.
