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| The Nazareno approaching San Sebastian Church for the "Dungaw". |
Catching up for the "Dungaw" was a last minute decision. Unlike last year, when January 9 fell on a Thursday (my day off), this year it was a Friday. So after having dinner with a friend after work, we hurried back home to prepare our gears for the procession. The pace was slow compared to 2014 so there was a chance for us to witness the "Dungaw". Revived in 2014, the "Dungaw" was done when the Nazareno passes by Plaza del Carmen and the Virgen del Carmen looks at her Son, like from a window, hence the term "dungaw".
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| Viva! Viva! Viva! |
We arrived at Plaza del Carmen at around 11:30 in the evening. The Señor was about two or three blocks away so a good one hour wait was just right. While waiting for the Señor, we walked around and look for our friends. There was Erico, Kel, Dennis, Benok, Warren, JM, Cho and others.
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| "Dungaw" |
About half an hour past midnight, there was a strong feeling that the Nazareno was near and he was. Suddenly, a wave of humanity pushed us to the sides. We also pushed to avoid being crushed by the pressure. That wave of humanity was part and parcel of the ocean of faith and devotion. Then the liturgical rites of the Dungaw began. The faithful were invited to silence and prayer. The Gospel was read, followed by prayer intentions. For once in what is called the "rowdiest" procession, came a moment of silence, discipline and unity. It gave me goosebumps. The King and Queen of Quiapo, meeting each other in the darkness of the night. Our Lord and His Mother meeting each other, assuring us of their presence not only in the procession but also in our life journey.
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| The Nazareno turning left to Bilibid Viejo |
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