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NAZARENO DEVOTION REACHES THE WEST COAST: OFFICIAL REPLICA ENTHRONED IN LOS ANGELES

Feb. 20, 2026 05:00 PM

Manila Philippines – From the heart of Quiapo to the West Coast of America, the devotion to Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno has crossed oceans and cultures. An official replica from the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno now finds its home at Holy Family Parish of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. This historic event marks a step in the continuing evangelization efforts of the Filipino Catholic community abroad and the spread of the devotion to Jesus Nazareno.

The image enshrined at the at Holy Family Parish and will serve as a pilgrim image, visiting parishes across the archdiocese’s five pastoral regions. Its arrival stands as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of faith and devotion that has long defined the Filipino people.

A Providential Journey

The replica was first offered to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles through Father Rodel Balagtas, priest liaison to the Filipino Ministry. Through a series of providential events and discernment, Holy Family Parish was selected as custodian of the sacred image.

The formal reception and installation of the replica who led by Bishop Sescon on behalf of Father Jade Licuanan of Quiapo. This marks the second official replica of Jesus Nazareno from Quiapo in the United States. The first official replica is enshrined at St. Sharbel Church in the Archdiocese of Las Vegas.

Debosyon, Traslacion, at Misyon

During the celebration of the Eucharist, Bishop Jun Sescon delivered a heartfelt homily reflecting on his unexpected yet grace-filled journey with Jesus Nazareno. Stressing on the importance of the image in the life of every Filipino and devotees.

He recalled telling the Cardinal that Quiapo normally given to senior priest. Yet in obedience, he accepted the mission. He humbly admitted that he was not originally a “cradle devotee” of Jesus Nazareno — but perhaps, he reflected, he was sent there to understand Him better, to know Him more deeply, and to love Him more fully.

His three years in Quiapo, especially in 2024 when the church was declared a National Shrine, became what he described as “three grace-filled years.”

He recounted how January 9 was formally recognized as the Feast of Jesus Nazareno, allowing Filipinos wherever they may be to celebrate the feast on that day. He reflected on the immense devotion he witnessed, 16 Masses every Friday from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., the church open 24/7, and up to 33 Masses during the Feast — with devotees still longing for more.

Moved by the faith of the people, Bishop Sescon reflected on why Jesus Nazareno is so deeply loved by Filipinos. He offered three profound reasons:

The Cross – Debosyon. The Cross makes Him dear to the Filipino people. Though He is the Son of God, He carries a heavy burden. God being powerful is natural; but God choosing to suffer — that is extraordinary. In the Cross, Jesus tells the faithful: I carry your burdens. I carry your suffering. The Cross speaks of devotion — Debosyon.

The Feet – Traslacion. In Quiapo, devotees climb behind the altar to touch and kiss the feet of Jesus Nazareno. Some may say He is falling under the weight of the Cross, but Bishop Sescon clarified: He is not falling — He is rising. No suffering can defeat Him. No cross can keep Him down. His knees and feet symbolize journeying with His people. He walks with them. He rises with them. This is Traslacion — the sacred journey of faith.

The Face – Misyon. The face of Jesus Nazareno does not look downward in despair. Instead, it looks upward toward the father. In moments of suffering, people tend to look down in sadness. But Jesus looks up — trusting that the Father will accomplish His mission. His gaze is one of hope, surrender, and trust.The face represents Misyon — the mission entrusted to Him and to all who follow Him.

A Gift for the Filipino Faithful

Father Rodel Balagtas expressed hope that the arrival of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno will revitalize the faith of Filipino Catholics in Los Angeles — the largest and most ethnically diverse archdiocese in the United States.

Later this year, the image will also be brought to the annual Religious Education Congress, expanding its reach to thousands of catechists and ministry leaders.

A Devotion Without Borders

As the official replica of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno finds its new home in Artesia, California, it becomes more than an image. It is a bridge between nations, a sign of unity, and a beacon of hope for Filipinos far from home.Through Debosyon, Traslacion, and Misyon, the devotion that began centuries ago in Quiapo now continues its sacred journey — reminding the faithful that no ocean, no distance, and no border can separate them from the Lord who walks with them and rises with them.

 

 

 

 

 

Angelyn Garcia | Social Communications