For many believers of Jesus Nazareno, their devotion is more than a ritual — it is a lifelong journey interwoven by faith, sacrifice, and service.
While millions jostle through the crowds every January 9 during the Feast of Jesus Nazareno to catch a glimpse or touch the sacred image, others like Flordelisa Mahait Francisco, head servant of the Ladies Servants of the Black Nazarene – Anpon (LSBN), express their devotion through service.
“This is my way of showing gratitude and devotion for the countless blessings I’ve received,” Francisco, whose journey of faith has been marked by extraordinary experiences, said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.
During the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, Francisco leads her fellow servants in maintaining order and reverence during the traditional “pahalik” and the grueling “traslacion”, the procession which is the main highlight of the feast.
For this year’s celebration, her team of 64 women, along with hundreds of others from various groups such as the Angels of the Black Nazarene – NPJN, the Handmaids of the Black Nazarene, the Ladies Auxiliary-Basilica, and the Lingkod Kababaihan ng Poong Jesus Nazareno – Bukluran, ensures maintaining order during the flow of devotees wishing to touch and wipe the sacred image.
“We ensure the flow is smooth and the experience remains orderly and reverent. Everyone is treated equally, even authorities, to reflect humility and respect,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Francisco shared that her devotion began during her younger years, when she started to join a church group but admitted that it was nothing serious back then.
But her faith was soon profoundly deepened by miracles, including her husband’s recovery from a near-fatal illness after she fervently prayed at Quiapo Church.
“Noong nagkasakit ng malubha ang asawa ko na sabi ng doktor oras na lang ang bibilangin, nasa Jose Reyes kami tumakbo ako sa Quiapo, lumakad ako ng paluhod, konting buhay pa, ibigay mo sa asawa ko, paglilingkuran kita, ibigay mo kahit konting araw lang,” Francisco shared
“When I returned to the hospital, he was already eating,” she recounted through tears.
She recalled that it wasn’t a one-time miracle. When her husband’s condition became critical again, she once more turned to the Lord in prayer, and for the second time, her pleas were answered.
However, when her husband’s life hung in the balance for the third time, she chose to surrender fully to God’s will. Instead of asking for more time, she prayed with open hands, trusting in His plan.
Shortly after she brought her husband home, he passed away peacefully.
Today, Francisco finds fulfillment in her calling to serve.
“Jesus Nazareno is my strength and healer. He doesn’t bring sickness — He brings healing and purpose,” she shared.
Francisco encourages fellow devotees to embrace true devotion.
“Believe in miracles, pray with sincerity, and trust in His guidance and healing,” she said. (PNA)