Organizers of this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene has disclosed events lined up during the festivity that officially begins with the usual midnight procession starting at 11:30 p.m. around the Minor Basilica on Saturday, Dec. 30.
According to the Church-run Radio Veritas, more than 330 Masses would be held during the 11-day celebration ending on Jan. 9 traslacion when the bigger-than-life size icon is taken out of the Quiapo Church for the much-awaited procession that draws hundreds of thousands of devotees.
From Dec. 31 to Jan. 8, 2024, the “Misa Nobenaryo” (Novena Mass) will be held, to be aired live on Radio Veritas 846 on the AM. Band.
Other activities include a village visitation on Jan. 1 to 6, while the replica blessing and procession will be held on Jan. 3 and 4 at 1:30 p.m.
On Jan. 6 at 6 p.m., a Mass for the volunteers will be held, followed by the opening of the “Pahalik” or kissing of the Nazareno at 7 p.m. until Jan. 8 at the Quirino Grandstand.
The “Panalangin sa Takipsilim” (dusk prayer) will be staged on Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m., to be followed by a vigil and other programs beginning at 6 p.m.
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula will lead the grand Fiesta Mass at midnight on Jan. 9, also at the Quirino Grandstand.
The Fiesta Masses set off Jan. 8 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Following the Mass to be officiated by Advincula, more Masses will be celebrated until 11 p.m. at the Quiapo Church.
Overall, there will be 33 Masses.
Although the traditional procession will be brought back, organizers noted that it will be unique as the image will be placed in a glass case to provide protection and devotees will have the opportunity to see it during the procession.
This year’s theme of celebrations is “We want to see Jesus.”