Reenactment highlights importance of baptism

CEBU, Philippines — As the fluvial procession concluded, the Sagrada Familia, along with devotees, made a short procession to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu for the annual reenactment held every Vísperas.

Hours before the solemn foot procession, the reenactment brought to life the momentous occasion when the image of the Child Jesus was gifted to Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.

The image of the Balaang Bata was presented to Queen Juana as a baptismal gift from Magellan, marking the beginning of the Cebuanos' devotion to the Holy Child.

This significant event laid the foundation of Christianity in the country, highlighting the first baptism, mass, and wedding in Cebu.

In his homily, Basilica rector Rev. Fr. Andres Rivera Jr., OSA, emphasized the connection between ancestors and the current generation, attributing this link to the deep love for the Holy Child.

He highlighted the importance of baptism as the gateway to Filipinos' Christian faith, stating, "Nagsugod ang Kristiyanismo sa dihang gidawat sa mga unang Cebuano ang Kristiyanismo pinaagi sa bunyag."

Fr. Rivera Jr. urged devotees to deepen their understanding and practice of Christianity through their devotion to Señor Sto. Niño. He added, "Si Kristo ang manluluwas, si Kristo ang atong paglaum, si Kristo ang nagdala natog himaya ngadto sa Diyos."

He also emphasized that the image of Señor Sto. Niño serves as a symbol of Christ's presence among sinners, saying, "Wala moanhi ang Diyos para sa mga matarong kundili sa mga makakasala nga nagkinahanglan og tambal sa ilang mga sakit – ang sakit sa sala nga maoy nagdalag kamatayon sa kalag, mga igsoon."

After the mass, thousands of people witnessed the Halad Sinulog performances by the Cofradía del Sto. Niño - Mother Chapter, Guadalupe Sinulog Dancers, Mabolo Sinulog Dancers, and San Diego Sinulog Dance Company. — (FREEMAN)