Filipino-Australians marked the Feast of the Black Nazarene with celebrations in Melbourne and Sydney. Melbourne observed its 9th annual celebration, while Sydney marked 30 years of Nazareno devotion, highlighting the deep-rooted faith and cultural traditions associated with this significant religious occasion.
Melbourne Celebrates 9th Feast of the Black Nazarene
The Filipino-Australian community in Melbourne celebrated the Feast of Jesus, the Black Nazarene on 10 January 2025, bringing hundreds of devotees to St Mary Star of the Sea in West Melbourne. The event highlighted the community’s strong connection to their faith and cultural traditions.
The celebration opened with a Rosary and Procession, featuring a large, life-size image of the Black Nazarene on a wheeled float. Devotees pulled ropes on either side to maneuver the float around the church compound.
A Holy Mass followed, presided over by Fr. Joselito ‘Litoy’ Asis, the Filipino Chaplain, with concelebrants Fr. Vince Miguel, Fr. Alfred Yap, Fr. DJ Suguitan, and Fr. Vito Pegolo. Fr. Andrew Paris, the parish priest of St Mary Star of the Sea, played host during the event.
When asked by The Philippine Times, Fr. Litoy shared his message for devotees:
“If we really want to be true devotees of Jesus the Black Nazarene, we have to trust and obey God. To always hope in the Lord. Christian hope does not disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from the love of God.”
The event concluded with a distribution of packed dinners, where attendees shared conversations and took pictures.
For Filipino-Australians, the Feast of the Black Nazarene is an occasion for spiritual renewal and the preservation of cherished traditions.
Hoxton Park Marks 30 Years of Nazareno Devotion
The Filipino-Australian community in Hoxton Park, Sydney, celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on 12 January 2025 at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church on Twentieth Avenue. The event drew local devotees as well as those watching from home and overseas, underscoring the enduring significance of this tradition.
The celebration began with a Rosary and Procession at 11:30 a.m., followed by a Holy Mass at 12 p.m. Devotees expressed gratitude for the blessings received over three decades of devotion.
A representative of the Good Shepherd Catholic Church organising committee opened the event by welcoming attendees with a heartfelt message: “Good afternoon and Happy New Year to everyone here and those watching at home and overseas. Welcome to our 30th anniversary of the Nazareno Fiesta.”
The Mass was celebrated by Father Hans Magdurulang, who travelled from Manila to join the occasion. Despite his busy schedule, Father Hans made time for the community, further strengthening the connection among Nazareno devotees.
During the event, participants were encouraged to reflect on their faith and dedication to Poong Jesus Nazareno. Acknowledging the significance of the milestone, the representative said:
“First and foremost, please put your hands together para sa Poong Jesus Nazareno for His ongoing overflowing blessings, especially in the last 30 years. Viva Señor Nazareno!”
The 30th-anniversary celebration was a simple but meaningful occasion, bringing the community together to honour their faith and look ahead to continuing this cherished tradition for years to come.
The Feast of the Black Nazarene in Melbourne and Sydney highlights the enduring devotion and cultural heritage of Filipino-Australians. These celebrations serve as an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and reflect on shared faith and traditions.
Photos in Melbourne by George Gregorio can be viewed here.
Photos at Hoxton Park by Jade Cadeliña can be viewed here.
