Abdiel Franz Bernales and Daniela Adelaide Jaimeleen Sol Dizon

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula emphasized that true devotion should be reflected in the devotee's life, mirroring the life of Jesus Christ. 


During the Misa Mayor for the 2025 Traslacion on Thursday, Advincula urged devotees to “show Jesus in their actions, to be instruments for others to witness the transformative power” of the Nazarene.

“God is more pleased with our obedience than with offerings,” he said in his homily.

The Manila Cardinal also acknowledged the image’s enduring strength, which has withstood fires, earthquakes, and wars. He called on the faithful to emulate its resilience by trusting in God’s providence during times of uncertainty.

“As long as there is hope, there is life. Therefore, let us live in hope in Jesus,” he noted.

He likened the image of Christ carrying the cross to the daily struggles and hardships people face, underscoring that just as Christ endured suffering for a greater purpose, people too can find strength and meaning in their own challenges.

“Beloved brothers and sisters, to Jesus Nazareno, if we are truly devotees—if we truly love the Lord Jesus Nazareno, let us be obedient to Him. Let us imitate Him, who was obedient to the Father even unto death,” he added.

The Catholics were reminded not to limit their devotion to rituals, but to embody Christ’s teachings in their daily lives. They were encouraged to serve others, especially the marginalized, and to be witnesses of love and compassion in their communities.

The Traslación honors the historic transfer of the centuries-old Black Nazarene image from its original site in Bagumbayan (now Luneta Park) to its current residence in Quiapo, Manila.

"Black Nazarene" was officially changed to "Nazareno" to emphasize Jesus's holy name rather than an attribute.

The “Pahalik” tradition was also held until January 9, after which the annual religious procession will be conducted from Quirino Grandstand to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno or Quiapo Church in Manila.

A powerful act of devotion where pilgrims and devotees line up—some traveling from far provinces—to touch, kiss, or simply lay their hands on the life-sized statue of the Black Nazarene. 

The event began with an estimated 220,000 attendees at a pre-procession mass, and approximately 94,500 participants joined the procession by 8:00 a.m. 

These numbers were expected to increase as the procession advanced along its 5.8-kilometer route. 

In the previous year, the Traslacion attracted around 6.5 million devotees and was completed in just under 15 hours.