Aug. 28, 2026 01:56 PM
QUIAPO, MANILA — The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno held its monthly parish-wide formation on Tuesday evening, bringing together Quiapo Church servants, devotees, and parishioners for an evening of faith formation and reflection.
Held every last Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM, the formation regularly features priests and speakers from different dioceses who share their insights and experiences in the service of the Church.
This month, Quiapo Church welcomed Rev. Fr. Jesus M. Madrid, Jr. of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila (RCAM), who led a lively and meaningful reflection centered on three important pillars of Christian life: Devotion, Connection, and Mission.

Keeping Human Dignity at the Center
Fr. Jesus reflected on the challenges brought about by the rapid development of technology and artificial intelligence. He reminded the faithful that, despite technological advancements, the human person remains at the center of God’s creation.
He emphasized two fundamental truths:
Because of this, every decision we make must respect the dignity of every person. Technology, including artificial intelligence, may be used as a tool for good and even for evangelization, but it must never replace human compassion, conscience, relationships, and spiritual growth.
Three Calls for Every Christian
Fr. Jesus illustrated his reflection through the biblical stories of the Tower of Babel and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. While Babel represents building driven by pride and self-centered ambition, Jerusalem represents a community united in prayer, collaboration, mutual care, and a shared commitment to the common good.
From these reflections came three important calls:
Devotion — Keep God at the center of our lives through prayer and a deepening relationship with Jesus Nazareno. Let love, rather than pride, guide the way we treat others.
Connection — Build a culture of encounter. Listen, learn, and walk alongside others, especially those who are experiencing difficulties and living at the margins.
Mission — Each person has a role in building the Kingdom of God. This mission begins in the family by nurturing children in the Catholic faith and extends to the wider community, including the responsible use of social media for evangelization.
Living the Mission in Quiapo
Fr. Jesus’ message reflects the continuing mission of Quiapo Church through initiatives such as I-Thursday, Dalaw Nazareno, and Nazareno Pilgrimage, which provide opportunities for devotion, encounter, and evangelization.
The HDN-MBBN also participated in the formation with joy and anticipation, together with fellow servants, devotees, and parishioners.
The evening concluded with a renewed reminder that faith is not only about devotion but also about how we connect with others and fulfill our mission.
Devotion. Connection. Mission.
Three simple calls that invite the Quiapo Church community to keep God at the center, recognize the dignity of every person, and share with others the love received from Him.
Alvin Rafio, OFS. HD-MBBN/Quiapo Article Writer