Photo not mine. Source
The Philippines, predominantly a Roman Catholic country in Asia, observes the Holy Week that started last Sunday, March 25, with the celebration of Palm Sunday.
Photo not mine. Source
Palm Sunday precedes the Holy Week. It is a representation of how the people in Jerusalem welcomed Jesus Christ into their city, days before he was crucified to the cross. Churchgoers bring their palms or palaspas formed like a cross or woven and have it blessed by the priest. Once the mass is over, Filipinos put the blessed palms on their altars or hang it on their doors in the belief that these ornament will deter evil elements and bad luck.
My family and I used to spend the Holy week in the province of my late grandfather in San Jacinto, Masbate which is a 3-hour lancha (big pump boat) ride from the city. I was able to witness how they celebrate Holy Week the traditional way.
This is the pump boat ride going to San Jacinto, Masbate.
We passed by this lovely view.
MAUNDY THURSDAY
Photo not mine Source
Every Holy Thursday, Visita Iglesia, or visiting of at least 7 churches is done among Catholics. They either have to pray the Rosary, the Station of the Cross, or have their own prayers in each of the churches they visit.
"Jesus Washes an Apostle's Feet" by Laurie Olson Lisonbee, 2006
Foot Washing is also celebrated as it symbolizes the washing of the feet by Jesus Christ on His disciples on the Last Supper. The priest pours water on the basin and washes the feet of his disciples.
GOOD FRIDAY
During this day, many people go to the church to attend the Station of the Cross which lasts for hours. At exactly 3 o'clock in the afternoon, the time when Jesus died, they observe silence as they repent their sins. This is also the day where Filipinos refrain themselves from listening to music or drinking alcohol. My grandmother also believes and tells me not to have any wounds or scratch on this day as it will heal longer.
In San Jacinto, after the church services, a procession follows. One thing that made my experience memorable was the live action version of the Station of the Cross.
Final blessing by the priest back at the church completes the solemn procession.
BLACK SATURDAY
Our family has been sponsoring this yearly tradition during Black Saturday since the time of my late great-grandfather, Lucio Almonte.
During this day, my family and relatives in San Jacinto are assigned to prepare meals for the priest and his disciples. They will be having their breakfast or lunch in my lolo's (grandfather's) house. As early as 4 in the morning, we cook the meals to be served on the table.
Once everything is cooked and done, we then set the table and wait for the visitors to arrive.
This is my grandfather's elder sister doing some final check on the table.
We had lumpia, eggs, suman latik (a Filipino delicacy), fried rice, fish fillet and so much more.
It will then be a feast once the visitors arrive.
EASTER SUNDAY
On this day, most Filipino families celebrate this festivity on beaches and other recreational areas. Resorts become full and crowded as a Sunday such as this is the perfect time to spend with their family and friends rejoicing for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Others would let their children find Easter eggs they have hidden and put it in their baskets.
We all have different ways of celebrating Holy Week and this is according to my experience. What's yours? Don't hesitate to share yours in the comment box.
XOXO