(Photo courtesy: Manila PIO)

For centuries, the holy image of the Black Nazarene, a life-sized icon of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, has captivated the hearts of Filipino Catholics. The devotion to this image surpasses borders, uniting millions, not just in Manila, but across the Philippines and even the globe. 

Now, a new chapter unfolds, as the Quiapo Church or the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno officially received the coveted title of National Shrine by the Vatican.

(Photo courtesy: Manila PIO)

The Quiapo Church, whose canonical name is Saint John the Baptist Parish, will be officially recognized as the "National Shrine of the Black Nazarene" with its other title, Minor Basilica, and Archdiocesan Shrine of the Black Nazarene. 

This elevation, declared on January 29 by Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, resonates deeply with the Filipino faithful. It recognizes the profound impact of the Black Nazarene, transcending its physical location and reaching the very core of their faith. 

Cardinal Advincula emphasized this in his homily, stating, "This signifies that the devotion to our beloved Poong Hesus Nazareno goes beyond Quiapo, beyond Manila, and now embraces the entire nation."

(Photo courtesy: Manila PIO)

The declaration is not simply an honor for the iconic church, but a testament to the transformative power of devotion. Throughout generations, the Black Nazarene has offered solace in times of hardship, reminding believers that they are not alone. As Cardinal Advincula beautifully expressed, "We have no one else to rely on, to lean on, or to hold on to, but Jesus. Jesus is the only support that cannot be shaken, cannot be defeated, cannot be overthrown by any rejection or conflict."

Beyond personal solace, the Black Nazarene also fosters unity. With this elevation, Cardinal Advincula urged, "Unity is the most important sign of being the Church. Jesus desires that the Church be a kingdom of love, understanding, and forgiveness, instead of selfishness, individualism, and conflict." So, the National Shrine status becomes a rallying point, reminding Filipinos of their shared faith and calling them to walk in solidarity.

This momentous occasion also highlights the growing global presence of the Christian faith. Cardinal Advincula noted, "Even now, it reaches the whole world. Wherever there is a Filipino, there is devotion to the Poong Hesus Nazareno. This is a grace bestowed upon us by the Holy One." 

The National Shrine recognition solidifies the Black Nazarene as a powerful symbol of faith, not just for Filipinos, but for Catholics worldwide.

Among those who attended the solemn declaration were Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles John Brown, with CBCP President, Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, Rector and Parish Priest of Quiapo Church, Rev. Fr. Rufino Sescon Jr., along with the bishops and priests from the Archdiocese of Manila and other dioceses.

Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines (Photo courtesy: Quiapo Church Facebook page)

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna was also present during the event.

"Ako po'y nagagalak sa pagkilala sa Simbahan ng Quiapo bilang Pambansang Dambana ni Jesus Nazareno (I am happy to recognize Quiapo Church as the National Shrine of the Black Nazarene)," Lacuna said. 

"Ayon po kay His Excellency The Most Reverend Charles Brown, ang ating debosyon sa Itim na Nazareno, na mas nakikita at nararamdaman ng buong mundo tuwing Pista ng Nazareno sa Enero, ay kinabibiliban ng maraming Pilipino at mga dayuhan mula sa ibang bansa," she added.

(According to His Excellency The Most Reverend Charles Brown, our devotion to the Black Nazarene, which the whole world can see and feel more every Nazarene Feast in January, is admired by many Filipinos and foreigners from other countries.

"Ang pagdeklara ng Simbahan ng Quiapo bilang ika-29 na Pambansang Dambana ng Pilipinas ay isang karangalan hindi lamang sa ating Simbahang Katolika, kun'di na rin sa ating Pamahalaang Lungsod kung saan ito nakatayo," the mayor further said.

(The declaration of Quiapo Church as the 29th National Shrine of the Philippines is an honor not only to our Catholic Church, but also to our City Government where it stands.)

There are several key factors that come into play when top church officials consider elevating a church to the status of a national shrine. Here are some of the most important:

Religious significance

• Devotion and pilgrimage: The church must be a site of significant and long-standing devotion that attracts pilgrims from different regions of the country. This could involve a venerated image, relic, or association with a saint or miracle.
  
• Spiritual impact: The church should demonstrably contribute to the spiritual growth and renewal of the faithful, fostering prayer, reflection, and conversion.
  
• Unique history and heritage: The church's history and heritage should be deeply intertwined with the nation's religious and cultural landscape.
  

Impact on the community

• Promoting unity and reconciliation: The church should serve as a unifying force for the nation, drawing people together regardless of background or denomination. It may play a role in promoting peace and reconciliation within the community.
  
• Social service and outreach: The church should demonstrably engage in charitable works and social service, actively alleviating suffering and promoting the well-being of the community.
  
• Example of catholic witness: The church's life and activities should embody the values and teachings of the Catholic Church, offering a model for faithful living and serving others.
  

Additional considerations

• Support from Local Church: The petition for national shrine status generally arises from the local bishops' conference and receives their strong backing.
  
• Papal Discretion: Ultimately, the decision to grant national shrine status rests with the Pope, who weighs all the factors and makes a judgment based on their significance for the Catholic Church and the nation.
  

It's important to note that these are just general guidelines, and specific criteria may vary depending on the unique context of each case.

In December 2023, Quiapo Church officially received from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)  the Decree of Establishment as a National Shrine through Msgr. Bernando Pantin, CBCP Secretary General Receiving the Decree is our Rector, and Parish Priest Fr. Jun Sescon. 

The journey of the Black Nazarene continues, now elevated to a National Shrine. It serves as a beacon of hope, reminding Filipinos of their unwavering faith, their interconnectedness as a nation, and their place in the wider Catholic community. This is a moment of celebration, but also a renewed commitment to live the values of love, unity, and compassion that the Black Nazarene embodies. (JEG/PIA-NCR)