You rightly quoted that this has been a tradition for more than
200 years and I believed you already read about it at
wikipedia.
Some historical facts:
- the Black Nazarene came from a boat that caught fire, turning
it from its original white into black or charred complexion
- The image survived the great fires that
destroyed Quiapo Church in 1791 and 1929, the great
earthquakes of 1645 and 1863, and the destructive Bombing of Manila
in 1945 during World War II.
which may be why there is this feast (celebration)......and why
they think this statue is special as God did not allow it to be
destroyed (a miracle itself).
To be simple minded, we can read it as by touching the Black
Nazarene, miracles can happen.....
The truth is, "But more than just an expression of
faith, the Catholic Church is
reminding the Filipino faithful that for miracles to happen,
prayers must be accompanied by action"
as reported in CNA and you can read about it
here.
Do they think Jesus in in that statue? I don't think they
do....Do you?
By the way, this statue on parade is not the original one...."
in 1998, a replica of the original Black Nazarene
was first paraded due to the repeated damages inflicted on the
statue."
and also wonder if they did protest (with the change) like the
rosary people you mentioned......
miracles do happen, but not because they touched the statue. why
does everyone want to touch the statue? if they don't touch it,
they miss out on the blessing? it's really really really disturbs
me, u can only take me that far with ur denial that it's not
idolatry.
no offence but it is very paganistic to me
yes, miracles must be accompanied by action - you pray for good
results, u must study hard, you are looking for a job, a wife, you
pray, then go out in faith and find one.
not you pray for financial help, then go touch a statue. there's
no difference from the practice of ppl rubbing the laughing
buddha's belly for good luck etc.
