The streets of Manila fill with millions of devotees each January, their prayers echoing through narrow alleyways during the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Among them walks Congressman Sam Verzosa, whose personal story intertwines with this profound expression of Filipino faith. SV is a member of the group Hijos del Nazareno. The group is in charge of taking care of the image of the Black Nazarene.

A Path of Devotion

For 16 years, Verzosa has joined the sea of faithful who gather to honor the Black Nazarene, a darkened image of Jesus Christ that many believe holds miraculous powers. His participation isn’t merely traditional – it marks significant chapters in his life’s story.

“Nagsimula ang aking paglalakbay kasama ang Itim na Nazareno 16 taon na ang nakakaraan. At mula noon, ito na ang pinagmumulan ng aking lakas at patnubay. Sa mga unang taon na iyon dun ko rin naranasan ang mga napakaraming hamon sa buhay. Ito yung mga panahon na puno ng mga kawalan ng katiyakan. Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat, ang aking debosyon sa Itim na Nazareno ang nagpanatili sa akin na maging matatag. It gave me strength to persevere, to overcome obstacles, and to never lose hope.”

From Business Success to Public Service

Today, Verzosa stands as both businessman and public servant, attributing his achievements to divine guidance. “From humble beginnings, I have been blessed with success in my endeavors. Ito ang nagpapahintulot sa akin na magbalik sa komunidad sa pamamagitan ng iba’t ibang mga gawaing pangkawanggawa.”

The annual gathering continues to fuel his commitment to service. “Every year, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. Yung masaksihan ko ang milyun-milyon at kanilang matatag na pananampalataya. Ang kanilang mga sama-samang panalangin at debosyon, pinupuno nito ang aking puso ng pag-asa. Ito rin ang nagbibigay-inspirasyon sa akin upang patuloy na maglingkod sa iba.”

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Personal Moments of Faith

On January 8, the eve of the feast, Verzosa joins thousands in line to kiss the statue’s foot. “Kissing the foot of the Black Nazarene is a deeply humbling experience,” he shares. “Dito ko talaga nararamdaman yung malalim na koneksyon sa ating mahal na poong Nazareno, kung saan isinusuko ko ang aking mga alalahanin at inaalay ang aking pasasalamat para sa lahat ng biyaya na natanggap ko.”

The yearly procession brings together Filipinos from every background, their prayers and chants rising above Manila’s streets. For Verzosa, each celebration strengthens his faith and sense of purpose.

He offers words of encouragement to those facing their own challenges: “Ang aking mensahe sa mga nakakaranas ng malalaking hamon sa buhay ay huwag tayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Lakasan natin ang ating pananampalataya, humingi ng patnubay mula sa ating poong Nazareno. Sa labing anim na taon na aking debosyon, hindi niya ako binigo, at patuloy niya tayong ginagabayan. Magtiwala lang tayo. Let us always remember that with unwavering belief and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle.”

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