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FROM CHANT TO CONVERSION: QUIAPO CHURCH PABASA NG MAHAL NA PASYON 2026

Apr. 06, 2026 06:17 PM

The solemn tradition of the Pabasa ng Mahal na Pasyon was faithfully observed at the National Shrine and Minor Basilica of Jesus Nazareno, gathering devotees, parish organizations, and church groups in prayerful reflection during Holy Week.

The sacred activity formally commenced on Holy Monday, March 30, 2026, with Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel Mojica opening the gathering through a brief yet deeply moving reflection on true conversion of heart. In his message, he challenged the faithful to go beyond the outward expressions of devotion. He emphasized that even if one sings the Pabasa from beginning to end, memorizes every verse, and fulfills the tradition in its entirety, it remains empty if it does not lead to an inner transformation.

Fr. Mojica reminded everyone that faith is not measured by repetition of words, but by the sincerity of a heart that is willing to change. Devotional practices, no matter how beautiful, only find their true meaning when they inspire repentance, humility, and a renewed commitment to live according to God’s will.

Throughout the two-day observance, members of various parish ministries, religious organizations, and lay communities took turns chanting the Pasyon, creating an atmosphere of reverence and unity inside the basilica. Participants offered their time and voices as an expression of faith, sacrifice, and thanksgiving, embodying the Filipino spirit of devotion during the Lenten season.

The continuous reading and singing of the Mahal na Pasyon served not only as a remembrance of Christ’s Passion but also as a moment of spiritual renewal for devotees who gathered to meditate, pray, and deepen their relationship with God. Families, youth groups, and senior parishioners alike joined the devotion, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this centuries-old tradition in contemporary Catholic life.

Church leaders emphasized that the Pabasa remains an important preparation for the commemoration of the Paschal Mystery, inviting the faithful to reflect on Christ’s suffering and love for humanity.

The Pabasa reached its solemn conclusion on Holy Tuesday, March 31, 2026, as Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan led the final prayers and imparted his blessing upon all who faithfully took part in the sacred tradition. His blessing served not only as a closing rite, but as a sending forth—an invitation for each participant to carry the spirit of the Pabasa beyond the gathering and into their daily lives.

The activity gently transitioned into a moment of fellowship at the open space behind the Cardinal Sin Building, where participants shared simple food and meaningful conversations. In this humble gathering, the community reflected the very essence of what they had just proclaimed in the Pabasa—unity, sacrifice, and love.

As the voices that once chanted the Pabasa fell silent, its message continues to echo in the hearts of the faithful. The Pasyon is not merely a narrative to be sung, but a living testament of Christ’s boundless love and sacrifice. It calls each one of us to respond—not only with devotion, but with a life transformed by compassion, forgiveness, and self-giving love.

May this sacred tradition remind us that the true meaning of the Pasyon is fulfilled when it is lived: when we carry our own crosses with faith, when we choose to love even in sacrifice, and when we allow Christ’s passion to shape our own journey toward renewal and hope.

 

– Marion Allen Albaladejo Worship Chair, HDN Central