I was able to hear mass at 5:00 AM yesterday at the famous Quiapo Church in Manila. I was able to give thanks for a successful 2019, and I prayed for more blessings to come in 2020.
Quiapo Church is lively at 5:00 AM
The church was filled with people as the Translacion is nearing. It is the upcoming procession of the Black Nazarene, which will happen next Friday.
The festive vibe anticipates the upcoming Translacion
As it was also the first Friday of the year (and the decade), the church was packed. I was able to hear mass outside the church, and I followed the liturgical ceremony from a large screen. This however did not ruin the mass for me, and the atmosphere was still solemn.
The author poses by the famous minor basilica
Quiapo Church continues to be a relevant place of worship for the faithful
After mass, I ate breakfast at Jollibee, where I got to watch the next mass from the best seat in the house!
The best seat in the house
The author enjoys sunrise while eating breakfast
It was inspiring to see the sea of devotees from three stories up.
Quiapo Church is filled with devotees at sunrise
I am proud to have the time for my faith, and the courage to venture out into crowded churches for the sake of thanksgiving and worship. I hope that the new year will be prosperous for me and my family, and that it will bring forth many opportunities for my career.
May God bless us all!
The festively-lit Church looks gorgeous at sunrise