Spiritual directors and pastoral leaders devoted to Jesus Nazareno will gather for the 1st National Conference of Spiritual Directors of Jesus Nazareno from October 8 to 10, 2026, in Quezon City and Pasay City.
The three-day gathering is organized by the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno (St. John the Baptist Parish), or Quiapo Church, in coordination with the Hijos del Nazareno Affairs Office.
The conference carries the theme, “One in Devotion, United in Mission to Jesus Nazareno.” It seeks to bring together those who accompany Nazareno devotees in their spiritual journey, providing an opportunity for formation, sharing of experiences, and deeper reflection on their pastoral mission.
The gathering will open on October 8 at the Sagrada Pamilya Chapel with a welcome and orientation, followed by the celebration of Holy Mass to be presided over by Most Rev. Jun C. Sescon Jr., D.D., Bishop of Balanga.
Bishop Sescon will also deliver the keynote session, reflecting on the spiritual and pastoral mission of those who serve the devotees of Jesus Nazareno.
The keynote session will be followed by conversations, testimonies, and opportunities for fellowship among the participants.
On October 9, the conference will continue with talks from Prof. Michael Charleston “Xiao” Briones Chua, Bro. Mark Joseph “Otep” Verdadero, and Bro. Christopher “Bong” Grajo, who will share their perspectives and experiences related to the Nazareno devotion and its pastoral mission.
The second day will also feature a Holy Mass to be presided over by Rev. Fr. Ramon Jade Licuanan, Rector and Parish Priest of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, as well as a panel session and open forum.
Aside from the formal sessions, the conference will provide space for prayer, testimonies, conversation, and fellowship, recognizing that pastoral ministry is strengthened not only through formation but also through communion with one another.
On the final day, October 10, the participants will gather at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City for the 2nd Balangay National Conference.
One of the highlights will be the blessing of the Nazareno replica with the priest directors, as well as the unveiling of the Nazareno 2027 logo.
The conference will culminate in a Eucharistic celebration to be presided over by His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula, D.D., Archbishop of Manila.
The 1st Balangay National Conference was held at the Cuneta Astrodome on November 26, 2025, as part of the continuing effort to deepen the faith of devotees and strengthen their mission of accompanying others toward a closer relationship with Christ.
The gathering will be livestreamed through the social media pages of Quiapo Church.
