Nazareno 2017: Devotion to the Feast of the Black Nazarene

"Upon reflection, it's no wonder Filipino devotees would flock to the feast of the Black Nazarene. The image of Christ's passion symbolizes our suffering and unending challenges. The pain and desire to touch the rope symbolize our sacrifice and hope that " everything will be alright after the chaos or suffering."


The feast of the Black Nazarene is known to millions of Filipino devotees and faithful who are witnesses to the miracles of the Holy Image of Christ. The image, transported from Mexico to the Philippines in the 17th century, gave meaning to our lives as a symbol of Christ's passion and suffering on the cross.

Despite its origins in the 1950s, the Feast of the Black Nazarene remains a steadfast beacon of faith in the Philippines. Over the years, Filipino devotees have found strength in the healing powers and blessings bestowed by the Black Nazarene, such as physical healing, emotional comfort, and spiritual renewal, reinforcing their unwavering faith.

This year, the traslacion, a religious procession that involves the transfer of the Black Nazarene from one place to another, took 22 hours, almost a day of sacrifice, to venerate and be able to hold the rope that attached to the carriage of the Holy image. This tradition has been consistent every year, though many devotees defy any terror threat and a little discomfort as an act of sacrifice. 

What could be the significance of this event to the millions of devotees? How could this belief strengthen their faith? What miracles does it honestly give after their sacrifice? These are some of the questions that need spiritual reflection and answers from a true devotee.

Back in 2013, I witnessed a massive gathering of the faithful. The Feast of The Black Nazarene 2013. That was my first time attending the live religious event of the Black Nazarene. I didn't witness the traslacion, but I solemnly prayed my intentions inside the Minor Basilica, known as the Quiapo church. That was a memorable experience, and since then, I have devoted myself to celebrating it on its feast day, wherever I may be.

Last year, Celebrating The Feast of The Black Nazarene 2016 was a fulfilling experience. It was my second time attending the live event, and it was a peaceful gathering near the Quiapo church. Beyond the experience was a profound religious awakening, as I felt one with the millions of Filipinos who hope to achieve a meaningful and fulfilled life.

I have yet to attend the live event this year, 2017. However, I will continue to follow up and update you on the celebration. Upon reflection, it's no wonder Filipino devotees would flock to the feast of the Black Nazarene. The image of the passion of Christ symbolizes our suffering and unending challenges.

The pains brought by the desire to touch the rope symbolize our sacrifice and the hope that everything will be alright after the chaos or suffering. This belief in miracles, which God can give in mysterious ways when we're defeated, is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith and hope, inspiring us to persevere in the face of adversity. 

When people suffer and become sorrowful, an open hand and a grateful heart receive God's intervention when we rely on his power. What God can do to us is limitless, and we Filipinos believe that no matter how hard life seems, we can still make it if we surrender everything to God's loving mercy, providing us with reassurance and comfort in our times of need. 

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is a powerful reminder of our commitment and devotion, regardless of twists and turns. It is a celebration of the love we receive from God and the love we, in turn, offer back to our Lord, fostering a sense of connection and love among the faithful.

©️ 2017 Del Cusay

New Year 2017: A Hopeful Journey

"Starting the year right would mean doing what I believe would truly work based on previous experiences. Doing the right thing with the right mindset, virtues, and spiritual beliefs are essential to living."

The year 2016 ended with endearing challenges. Some setbacks created emotional struggle and solitude. Though not a pleasant year, I remained optimistic and in control of my reality and destiny. A few years ago, in 2009, I started believing in the power of the 'Law of Attraction,' which attracts magical experiences and magnificent results in my life. I've manifested some thought forms, and it's a potent tool to use when being hopeful of your fate and destiny. Since then, the manifestation of dreams and desires has been effortless. I couldn't imagine at first how I had achieved such tremendous energy that it had changed my life. I am a living reality of 'you are what you think, and I have made things possible -- through the power of the Law of attraction.

As we step into 2017, my faith in the power of the universe remains unwavering. Much like my spiritual and religious beliefs, the Law of Attraction continues to be my guiding light toward a life of excellence. While not all our desires may come to fruition immediately, I am a firm believer that with unwavering faith and perseverance, they will be realized in due time, according to the divine plan. 

I learned the law of universal timing a few years back, and it has had a powerful effect on our lives. It has served as our guide in business, career, and life.

Starting the year right would mean doing what I believe would work based on previous experiences. Doing the right thing with the right mindset, virtues, and spiritual beliefs is essential to living. The goals I would set for this year are thoughts I may have had for years that have not manifested yet, but I still trust that the universe will conspire to make them a reality. We are destined to achieve everlasting happiness and bliss and can become a blessing to others in some ways within or beyond our capacity.

Mysterious energy surrounds and guides us to renew and relive a meaningful existence. We are bestowed with extraordinary powers to manifest our dreams and goals. This year will be a journey towards challenging tasks ahead and a rewarding fate and destinations our heart desires.

This year, 2017, is about being hopeful of unimaginable things. I still believe in magic. That's an incredible experience worth achieving. I will be guided internally by my will and instincts of right and wrong and lead a better life away from distractions, false beliefs, and bad luck. To myself, my family, relatives, and everyone close to my heart, I desire to be shielded by a defense of more vital energy.

 A balanced lifestyle, free from harm and filled with optimism, is the key to dispelling the negative energy of manifestation. Balancing health at all levels and maintaining a positive outlook is the ultimate dream, which I believe is within reach if we allow God's grace to guide us. A great year is not just about the winning moments but also about the strength to rise every time we fall. The journey ahead is a testament to our firm will, a grateful heart, and a powerful spirit.

© 2017 Del Cusay

Christmas in Our Hearts 2016: Breakthrough to Success

"Achieving my cherished goals and dreams is always a 'breakthrough to success' that I must cultivate. The year will always end with a brighter hope and aspirations in our hearts for a great year and the year ahead."



This is the season of loving and caring. When full of emotions, we are more compassionate to everyone who matters. We give and receive something, and we feel good about it. This is the spirit of Christmas—the most beautiful time of the year. Whenever the Christmas season comes, it excites us and makes us fully alive. There's more incredible energy everywhere and a feeling of abundance. These feelings create a wonderful memory that lasts for a lifetime.

Christmas is a beautiful season and gives us a magical experience utterly different from the ordinary months that have passed. I remember memories whenever I play and listen to Christmas instrumentals, the relaxing piano music, and the saxophone's romantic sound. Christmas is truly in the air. It gives a flashback of the remarkable past and gives hope to the unknown future. As I quietly lay down on the bed, I close my eyes and reminisce about the beautiful time I've experienced. I recall the ups and downs that brought laughter and tears from the past to the present. The memories that wouldn't just fade away but remain in my heart forever.

Christmas is a joyful season that brings hope to empty, lacking, and abandoned people. When this time comes, we hear the children singing Christmas carols. They may not feel empty, but they hope to be given a part of what we have. We provide them with a part of our success. Though not that much, it remains memorable, and they take gratitude for that simple way of giving. Singing Christmas carols in the neighborhood was a unique childhood experience. 

Aside from exercising our vocal powers, we enjoy the little money we receive. The happiness is accurate, and the excitement is unstoppable. I know how these kids feel when they receive something from every house and they sing a carol. That's an early practice of the virtue of gratitude. It's something that we must learn to value and practice. It brings more blessings and abundance. The more grateful we are, the more fulfilled we'll become. We don't feel empty, but we always have enough.

Christmas is a time of spiritual reflection. The year is about to end, and we affirm our goals, the desires we have accomplished, the directions we have taken, and the destination we have finally arrived at. A successful year doesn't mean being a winner in everything. There are times we feel defeated, unsure, and misguided. However, those emotions are just part of winning. To lose for a moment doesn't define the year-end success; it doesn't predict the following year's success or lead to demotivation and lack of meaning. Hence, it reminds us to renew our lives and make more extraordinary sacrifices for goals to achieve beyond the limits. This Christmas is to celebrate success and achievements that contribute to personal development. Reflecting on what I've achieved gives me a sense of fulfillment -- a blissful spirit.

The Past year has been a meaningful celebration. Christmas in Our Hearts 2015 brought us together with joy in our hearts. Since 2011, I've written Christmas in Our Hearts to reflect on the joyous season with my family. We anticipate a better year ahead of us when we're bonded. We are together in our hopes and aspirations for a bountiful new year full of blessings and mercy from God. This year, 2016, is another milestone in a beautiful journey. I've been taken to a place closer to home. A trip is full of hopes and plans for personal development. -- a destination where everything ends happily, feeling love and compassion.

Christmas 2016 is a simple yet meaningful celebration. The weather may not be favorable, but the rhythm goes unstoppable; music in a Christmas melody, and kids enjoy dancing to a Zumba beat. Celebrating "Misa de Gallo" commemorates the birth of Christ, the source of our Divine inspiration and power. This is followed by the traditional "Noche Buena" as thanksgiving.

Christmas is always in our hearts, and we hope for the best thing to come. I am hoping for more blessings, abundance, everlasting grace, and the loving mercy of God. This year, 2016, gave me a great life lesson. To live a life full of gratitude and a more positive spirit will be carried on the following year, 2017. I hope for the best for myself, my family, and everyone who truly matters. Achieving my cherished goals and dreams is always a 'breakthrough to success' that I must cultivate. The year will always end with brighter hopes and aspirations for a great year and the year ahead.

© 2016 Del Cusay