As many Christians around the world solemnly marked the crucifixion of Christ on the cross on Friday, Roman Catholic worshipers in the Philippines were engaging in a controversial reenactment event where they were nailing themselves to crosses in a fervent display of devotion.
The reenactments have become an annual event in the 75-million strong Catholic nation and take place every Good Friday, though they are frowned upon by the Vatican, AFP reported. The devotees have real nails driven through their palms and feet, are strapped to large wooden crosses and raised up before the eyes of curious onlookers and participants dressed in Roman soldier costumes, trying to recreate the scene of Christ’s crucifixion as closely as they can.
A worshipper, Alex Laranang, said he has participated in the re-enactments for the past 12 years.
“I had made a vow to do this every year until I die. I do not expect anything in return. I do this for my God,” the 57-year-old Laranang said.
While the church does not support such extreme demonstrations of devotion, it stops short of condemning the practice.
“We do not judge and condemn, but we discourage it,” said Archbishop Jose Palma, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.