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A hooded penitent with a bloodied back prays while lying on his belly at the entrance of a church during Maundy Thursday Lenten rites in Angeles city, north of Manila, April 21, 2011. The Roman Catholic church frowns on the gory spectacle held in the Philippine villages every Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday but that does nothing to deter the faithful from emulating the suffering of Christ and taking a painful route to penitence. REUTERS/Erik de Castro (PHILIPPINES - Tags: RELIGION SOCIETY IMAGES OF THE DAY)
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Media ID 5789904
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this powerful image captured by Reuters photographer Erik de Castro, we witness the intense devotion and sacrifice of a hooded penitent during Maundy Thursday Lenten rites in Angeles City, Philippines. The photograph depicts a man lying on his belly at the entrance of a church, his back bloodied as he fervently prays. Despite the disapproval from the Roman Catholic Church regarding these gory spectacles, devout followers remain undeterred in their quest to emulate Christ's suffering and seek penitence through pain. This annual tradition is deeply rooted in Filipino culture and showcases an unwavering faith that transcends physical boundaries. The contrast between the solemnity of the religious ceremony and the shocking sight of a bloodied back creates a striking visual impact. It serves as a reminder of humanity's capacity for devotion and self-sacrifice in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Erik de Castro's skillful composition captures not only the physical act but also conveys profound emotions hidden beneath the hooded figure. The lighting adds depth to this poignant scene, emphasizing both vulnerability and resilience. This photograph encapsulates how religion can inspire individuals to endure immense physical discomfort willingly. It invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs while simultaneously respecting cultural practices that may differ from their own. Through this image, we are reminded that faith manifests itself differently across cultures but remains an enduring force capable of driving people towards acts of extraordinary devotion.
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