January 9 | National Feast of Jesus Nazareno
In the year 1588, the Franciscan mission outpost of Quiapo was separated from Sta. Ana de Sapa, and became a parish dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus with St. John the Baptist as patron.
In the 17th century, a dark image of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, known as 'Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno', was brought to Manila by a galleon from Mexico.
The image was enshrined in the first church of Recolectos at Bagumbayan (Luneta), and then to the church of St. Nicholas of Tolentine (Nicolas de Tolentino) in Intramuros.
The devotion to Señor Jesus Nazareno became very popular, and led to the establishment of the Cofradia de Jesus Nazareno, which was recognized by Pope Innocent X in the year 1650.
Between 1767-1787, the replica of the image was transferred to Quiapo Church, and Pope Pius VII bestowed the Apostolic Blessing to those who venerate the image. The 9th of January eventually became known as the Feast of Jesus Nazareno.
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Our sweetest, dear Lord Jesus of Nazareth, my God and Redeemer, who journeyed to Calvary carrying the Cross that would crucify You.
I, a poor sinner, who was the cause of Your unspeakable suffering, praise You and thank You, that as the meek Lamb, You meekly accepted the wood of Your death upon Your shoulders, so that my sins and those of the world could be put to an end.
Forgive me, O Good Jesus; I confess my sins and I trust that because of Your infinite goodness You, will wash them with Your Blood.
I love You above all things, promising to be faithful until the hour of my death. Guide me, my God, with Your grace and lead me on the path of Your Commandments in Your Heavenly Kingdom. Amen.
