I had the driver take me to the Quiapo Church in downtown Manila. Churches
usually make a good place around which to sightsee / shop as there is
usually a place there to sit down and rest. That’s what I’m doing right
now. This is a big building and quite nondescript as far a Catholic
churches go. Its claim to fame is a carving of Jesus carrying the cross. It
was carved in Mexico in the early 1600’s and brought here. The weather has
turned the wood black which has really appealed to the Filipinos. Each year
in early January the statue, which stands about six feet tall, is put on a
wagon and pulled through the streets with ropes. Literally millions come
for this event because, according to the legend, touching the statue, the
wagon, or the ropes brings forgiveness of even the most henious sins.
Eventually pictures may end up on the picture album. It’s time to go find
some water and a restroom (called a ‘comfort room’ in the Philippines).
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