It is no secret that I am planning to move to the Philippines after I retire later this year.  My reasons are varied and numerous, but I do appreciate and have a comfort level with a predominately Christian, English speaking population.  Pretty much the only place you’ll find like that in Asia.

I recall my first visit to Cebu back in 2008 coincided with Easter week celebrations.  I was somewhat surprised to discover that Maundy Thursday (which I had never even heard of) was a national holiday, akin to Christmas in the USA.  Everything was basically closed up tight and I was left to spend a pretty boring day in my hotel room.

Of course,  Maundy Thursday is just a warm up for the Good Friday festivities.  Well, if you can call being crucified festive.  No kidding, I’m talking being nailed to the cross here folks.

The Daily Mail from the UK has a fascinating article (from which I borrowed these photos) about the amazing demonstration of faith by the devoutly Catholic Filipino people.

During my Cebu visit I did not witness anyone being crucified (nor do I think I’d want to) but I did see a huge procession being led by someone like this:

You know, I’m not Catholic or even particularly religious, but I obviously respect the faith of others.  And to be honest, people who live their faith I think are most worthy of honor.  Still, demonstrations of faith by reenacting the suffering of Jesus Christ are pretty impressive don’t you think?

Certainly preferable to the suicide rituals of those whacked out followers of the pedophile Mohammad.  Just sayin’.