Ash Wednesday places Catholics and other denominations of faith in the place of Jesus' entry into the desert before his death. It is a symbolic turning of one's heart towards God, recognizing the brokenness that exists and the need for salvation. It is a holy day for prayer and fasting.
Before the mass started, the people formed a line to show their love to the Black Nazarene by obtaining ashes in their forehead to symbolize their faith and respect to the Nazarene. The ashes represent both death and repentance. During this time, Catholics show repentance and mourning for their sins.
After the Holy Mass, people paid their respect to the Black Nazarene by praying and wiping their handkerchiefs on the statue of the Poong Nazareno to bring miracles amongst their lives.
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Article by: Angelie San Juan
Photos by: Precious Anne Despi, Jorge Francis Yaneza, Elaine Keziah Zaño, & Christine Gold Ibasco