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DO NOT BE AFRAID: “JESUS LEADS THE TRASLACION OF OUR LIVES”, BISHOP RUFINO JUN SESCON JR. REFLECTION ON 8TH NOVENA MASS

Jan. 12, 2026 02:30 PM

On January 7, 2025, Devotion and deep reverence filled the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, Quiapo Church as thousands of faithfuls gathered for the 8th Novena Mass in preparation for the Traslacion 2026.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Bishop Rufino Jun Sescon Jr., D. D, former Parish Priest of Quiapo and widely regarded as the most beloved Bishops among Nazareno devotees.

Warmly welcomed by the faithful, Bishop Sescon’s presence brought a sense of homecoming to Quiapo Church, where he once shepherded the parish and nurtured the devotion to Jesus Nazareno. His pastoral closeness and heartfelt preaching resonated deeply with devotees from walks of life.

In his homily, Bishop Sescon reflected on the Nazareno 2026 theme, “Dapat Siyang Tumaas, at Ako Nama’y Bumaba (He must increase, and I must decrease), reminding the faithful of the true meaning of following Jesus Christ- humility, surrender and trust in God.

Drawing from the Gospel, he reassured the devotees with powerful message: “Do not be afraid, this is Jesus.”

He emphasized that amid life’s storms, sufferings and uncertainties, Jesus Nazareno walks with His people, just as He continues to walk with the devotees through their daily crosses. Bishop Sescon invited faithful to allow Jesus Christ to increase in their lives by letting go of pride, fear and self- centeredness, and by embracing a life of service and faith.

“The Traslacion is not only a physical journey,” he said, “but a spiritual movement- where we allow Jesus to rise in our hearts while we learn to humble ourselves before God and others.”

The celebration concluded with a renewed sense of hope and courage among the faithful, strengthened by the reminder that the Lord they follow is present, alive and never abandoned His people.

As the Novena draws closer to its culmination, the message of the 8th Novena Mass continues to echo in the hearts of devotees: Do not be afraid- this is Jesus, who must increase our life.

Alvin T. Tomagos / EMHC Quiapo Church